Dr Mamoeletsi Mosia, Managing Director of the NRF-SAASTA

Dr Mamoeletsi Mosia, Managing Director of the National Research Foundation’s South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRF-SAASTA), delivered an inspiring presentation titled “NRF’s Role in Advancing Implementation of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development” at Nelson Mandela University’s Research Week 2024. As the flagship event enters its third year, Dr Mosia’s presentation underscored the critical role of research and innovation in achieving the goals of the International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development.

Nelson Mandela University’s Research Week 2024, themed “Advancing the International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development,” aims to foster synergistic partnerships, engagement, and the expansion of global research networks. This year’s programme built on the success of previous years by exploring the intersection of academia with the sciences, social sciences, and humanities, and highlighting the importance of research in shaping a sustainable future.

In her presentation, Dr Mosia highlighted the NRF’s strategic initiatives and contributions towards advancing the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development, focusing on the pivotal role that research institutions play in driving sustainable and inclusive growth. She reminded those in attendance that the country’s progress towards achieving the SDGs is through the collective work by all, including universities.  She not only celebrated the achievements of Nelson Mandela University in fostering a thriving research culture but also encouraged the academic community to continue pushing boundaries in research and innovation, thereby contributing to the country’s progress towards achieving the SDGs.

Adding to NRF-SAASTA’s impactful presence at the event, Mr Michael Ellis, the manager of the Science Communication and Engaged Research division at NRF-SAASTA, played a significant role as a judge in the 3 Minute Thesis Competition. This science communication competition serves as a skills development platform, challenging postgraduate students to effectively communicate their research to a non-specialist audience in just three minutes. Mr Ellis’s involvement underscored NRF-SAASTA’s commitment to enhancing science communication skills and supporting emerging researchers in presenting their work in accessible and engaging ways.

Both Dr Mosia’s presentation and Mr Ellis’s participation reinforced the collective commitment to advancing research and innovation as key drivers of societal transformation. As Nelson Mandela University continues to build on its reputation as a hub for academic excellence and international partnerships, the insights shared during the week serve as a beacon for the possibilities that lie ahead.