SA, Uganda to enhance science, technology relations

South African Science and Technology Minister Mosibudi Mangena and his Ugandan counterpart Ephraim Kamuntu will sign a bilateral agreement on Thursday, 16 April 2009 to pave the way for both countries to deliberate in areas of mutual interest in this field.

The Department of Science and Technology is hosting Minister Kamuntu and his delegation until Saturday.

"The signing of the bilateral agreement signals the commitment by both parties to work together in the advancement of science, technology and innovation.

"It will pave the way for the development of a plan of action which will facilitate the identification of priority areas and the consolidation of resources to implement the agreement," Minister Mangena said.

Both countries have been negotiating a bilateral co-operation agreement since 2006 when a delegation from Uganda undertook an exploratory visit to acquaint themselves with the South African Science, Technology and Innovation system.

According to the department, the visit will afford both countries the opportunity to deliberate on areas of mutual interest and co-operation.

The two ministers will also discuss issues on biosciences, indigenous knowledge systems, environment and climate change, energy research, research and innovation management capacity, formulations of strategic partnerships, information and communication technology.

Mthethwa said the delegation will undertake visits to a number of institutions in the South African National System of Innovation.

These will include the Agricultural Research Council, National Research Foundation, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Innovation Hub, Tshwane University of Technology, University of Pretoria and Department of Science and Technology.

Article published courtesy of BuaNews