New UK–SA Pact Supercharges AI Governance, Space Growth and Tech Innovation
UK and South African officials unveiled three major science initiatives at this year’s Science Forum, held at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research in Pretoria. The announcements introduced a joint AI policy training programme, a new toolkit to support African space sectors, and a renewed partnership with the Global Innovation Fund (GIF). Together, these projects aim to speed up inclusive development and strengthen scientific collaboration.
AI Governance Training To Upskill Policymakers
The new Global AI Policy Training Programme will train 30 officials from both countries. This initiative helps leaders respond to the fast-changing landscape of artificial intelligence governance. The course draws on expertise from the Global Centre on AI Governance, the University of Cape Town, and the University of Cambridge.
British High Commissioner Antony Phillipson stated that the UK is investing in “skills, networks, and innovations to strengthen science and technology for our shared advantage.” This initiative also expands the UK’s wider AI for Development programme, which supports locally led solutions and encourages Southern Africa to shape global AI standards.
Space Toolkit Aims To Close Critical Gap
The South African Research Institute for Innovation and Sustainability (RIIS), collaborating with the Kenyan and Rwandan space agencies, released the Space Ecosystem Development Toolkit on 24th November. Backed by the UK’s RISA Fund, this toolkit aims to address critical gaps in human capital, infrastructure, finance, policy, and inclusion.
The toolkit guides national space agencies as they set priorities and plan future growth. RIIS team lead Lindokuhle Simelane emphasized that the toolkit supports “inclusive participation, ensuring space-based solutions drive economic growth and societal development.”
Innovation Fund Partnership Strengthened
The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and the Global Innovation Fund have renewed their partnership. Both organizations aim to accelerate innovations that improve livelihoods, expand economic inclusion, and build resilience to climate change. The collaboration seeks to help more high-potential ideas reach underserved communities.
GIF CEO Joseph Ssentongo noted that the partnership will help solutions “reach the people who need them most.” DSTI believes that the renewed agreement supports the country’s Science, Technology and Innovation Decadal Plan. Dr. Mmboneni Muofhe highlighted that it will ensure investments “deliver measurable socio-economic benefits.”
