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Prof Robin Banerjee meeting with Dr. Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, CEO of the South African National Research Foundation

In mid-September 2024, a Sussex delegation, led by Pro-Vice Chancellor for Global and Civic Engagement, Prof. Robin Banerjee, made a fruitful visit to South Africa. This visit fostered warm exchanges and collaborative discussions with esteemed colleagues at Nelson Mandela University, the University of Pretoria, and the University of Johannesburg. The delegation extends its gratitude to the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and the National Research Foundation (NRF) for their invaluable support during this endeavour.

A visit to Nelson Mandela University focused on enhancing research capacity and exploring synergies in critical areas such as food security, energy, the social dynamics of artificial intelligence, climate change, and global inequality. These discussions underscored a shared commitment to addressing pressing global challenges through collaborative research efforts.

At the University of Pretoria, the delegation explored further avenues for collaboration, building on the existing initiatives of the Transformative Innovation Africa Hub (TIAH). Coordinated by the Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU) at the University of Sussex Business School, TIAH aims to maximize its impact across the continent.

The University of Johannesburg is a key partner in Sussex’s South African network. Hosting the Trilateral Research Chair in Transformative Innovation, the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and Sustainable Development, Johannesburg plays a crucial role in this international collaboration, which includes the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) in Kenya. Funded by the South African National Research Foundation, this initiative leverages the collective expertise of its partners to strengthen African scholarship, focusing on transformative innovation and its policy implications for sustainable development. Dr. Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, CEO of the South African National Research Foundation, expressed his enthusiasm and support for the ongoing collaboration between Sussex and South African universities, emphasizing the mutual benefits of our plans.

The delegation was also delighted to be able to engage with industry partners, exploring opportunities for student consultancy, research collaboration, and scholarship development. Special thanks are due to the National Business Initiative, Pele Energy Group, and the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation for their commitment to fostering these connections. The delegation also appreciated the opportunity to meet with Antony Phillipson, the British High Commissioner to South Africa.

Li Camm, Head of Global Partnerships within the Global Enagement team, and who formed part of the delgation, said, 'This visit exemplifies the University of Sussex's strategic aim of building strong, equitable, and impactful global partnerships. The warmth of the interactions and the inspiring stories shared by partners and alumni further underscore the vital role of collaborative efforts in addressing global challenges and advancing knowledge for the greater good.'

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