BRICS Science Forum 2026: Harnessing AI for Global Equity

The INSA hosted a virtual BRICS Science Academies Forum, focusing on AI for sustainable development and Global South cooperation. The meeting emphasized equitable AI use, shared computing, and infrastructure, with recommendations from participant countries for collaborative benchmarks and frameworks to advance AI in science and sustainable development.

The Indian National Science Academy (INSA) has kicked off the BRICS Science Academies Forum 2026, held virtually under India's BRICS Presidency. The event, themed 'Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development,' united science academies from ten nations to draft a declaration promoting responsible AI use across the Global South.

Moderated by INSA Vice President Debashis Mitra, discussions focused on making AI a tool for inclusive development. INSA President Shekhar C Mande remarked the forum strives to action beyond dialogue, stressing AI's role in fostering sustainable growth internationally.

Countries such as China, Egypt, and Indonesia put forth recommendations around collaborative data-sharing and AI models, with consensus on shared computing infrastructure and open-source AI. An in-person meeting is scheduled in 2026 to finalize the declaration. The forum underscored AI's transformative potential in scientific innovation, governance, and sustainability efforts.