Inaugural NSI Transformation Summit will place science, technology, innovation and knowledge at the centre of society

The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, will be joined by Gauteng Premier, Mr Panyaza Lesufi, for the opening of the inaugural National System of Innovation Transformation Summit on 13 March 2025.

Taking place under the theme "Science, technology, innovation and knowledge at the centre of government, education, society and industry", the summit will facilitate all stakeholders, including science councils, higher education institutions, government departments, the business sector and organised labour to reflect and engage on the current and future role of the national system of innovation.

The summit will also recommend actions to accelerate the realisation of inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development to benefit all South Africans.

The summit will begin with a message of support from Premier Lesufi, with Minister Nzimande giving the keynote address. The opening session will also include a high-level discussion on the topic, "The transformation of knowledge for South Africa's future", which will be facilitated by Dr Derrick Swartz, former advisor to the Minister, and include panellists from higher education institutions such as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Witwatersrand, Prof. Zeblon Vilakazi, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Nelson Mandela University, Prof. Azwinndini Muronga, and the South African Research Chair: Teaching and Learning at the University of Johannesburg, Prof. Shireen Motala.

Other topics on the agenda are "Equity, diversity and inclusion in the current and future research and innovation workforce", "Knowledge and STI-driven industrialisation and green development", and Youth and STI".  pdf See the full programme here (2.30 MB)

The summit will also include an exhibition showcasing innovations aligned to the theme.

The Deputy Minister, Ms Nomalungelo Gina, will deliver closing remarks on Friday.

The media are invited as follows:

Date:               13 to 14 March 2025

Time:              08:30 for 08:45

Venue:            Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre, Boksburg

Issued by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.

Enquiries: Veli Mbele at 064 615 0644 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

For more information and media accreditation, please contact Julian Leshilo-Sebake at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 060 961 2194.