Speaking in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape where he was delivering the closing remarks at the BRICS YSF, Higher Education, Science and Innovation Deputy Minister, Buti Manamela, says a sharp focus on artificial intelligence, machine learning and future skills is needed to enhance the objectives of the Young Scientist Forum (YSF).
“Further to this, we also believe that consideration must be given to the human and social sciences.
“We believe that all these areas of focus are critical for the development of all BRICS countries and essential for their resilience and the long-term psychological well-being of their respective populations,” the Deputy Minister said on Wednesday.
The three-day event were attendees paid attention into transforming skills development for the future, climate change and environmental sustainability, and the future of society.
Organised by the Department of Science and Innovation’s entities, the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) and the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf), the forum also hosted the Young Innovators Prize from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa to reward innovations with societal benefit.
“The BRICS Young Scientist Forum has become an important platform for critical reflection by young scientists, researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs on some of the most urgent challenges of our time.
“As South Africa, we are particularly pleased that this year’s BRICS forum upheld the tradition of focusing on such critical global issues as climate change, environmental sustainability, the future of education, mindset, and skillset, and the future of society,” Manamela said.
Manamela also added that the creation of strong YSF engagement with current and past cohorts deserve attention. He also proposed the establishment of an alumni forum of YSF participants from BRICS countries.
