Strengthening South-South Cooperation: Key Insights from CSIR Conclave on SDGs

The inaugural session was led by Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director of CSIR-NIScPR, who underscored the significance of exploring new models for responsible research and innovation.

On September 11, 2024, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), in collaboration with the Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology (APCTT-UN ESCAP) and the World Association of Industrial & Technological Research Organizations (WAITRO), hosted an online Conclave focused on enhancing South-South cooperation. The event, organized by the CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) and the CSIR-International S&T Affairs Directorate (CSIR-ISTAD), gathered global institutions and scholars from Southern countries to discuss crucial policy deliberations for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Engaging Global Expertise

The Conclave featured presentations from senior experts of renowned global organizations such as ISTIC-UNESCO, the West Asia North Africa Institute, and the UN Technology Bank for Least Developed Countries. Participants included representatives from various research institutions like the National Research and Innovation Agency of Indonesia, Wits Business School in South Africa, and the Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi.

Focus on Sustainable Development Goals

The discussions centered on how cooperative partnerships among South countries can facilitate responsible governance in science and innovation, particularly focusing on SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The Conclave emphasized the importance of addressing challenges through enhanced South-South connections, thereby leveraging existing efforts across nations.

Inaugural Session Highlights

The inaugural session was led by Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director of CSIR-NIScPR, who underscored the significance of exploring new models for responsible research and innovation. She emphasized the importance of open science, resource accessibility, and promoting gender equity. The outcomes of this Conclave are set to be presented on September 19 at the Science Summit during the 79th UN General Assembly.

Dr. Rama Bansal of CSIR-ISTAD highlighted the organization's pivotal role in enhancing India's scientific and technological capabilities. Additionally, Dr. Preeti Soni from APCTT-UN ESCAP and Ms. Theresia Ningsi Astuti from WAITRO spoke about their efforts in supporting the scientific capacity of Southern nations.

Technical Sessions Overview

The Conclave comprised three technical sessions:

Responsible Governance for Research and InnovationChaired by Prof. Mammo Muchie, this session emphasized the need for open science frameworks that bridge the North-South divide. Discussions included developing inclusive governance practices and ethically responsible research frameworks.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in ScienceLed by Prof. Rohini Godbole, this session focused on policies promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM, particularly empowering women and addressing rural development. Panelists shared successful examples from Indian policy initiatives.

Funding Mechanisms and Capacity-Building for R&D CooperationChaired by Prof. Nagesh Kumar, this session explored funding instruments that support science and technology initiatives aligned with the SDGs. Successful capacity-building interventions in South countries were highlighted.

The Conclave concluded with a comprehensive summary of discussions, presented by Dr. Sujit Bhattacharya, Chief Scientist at CSIR-NIScPR. The event underscored the necessity for South countries to develop mechanisms for collaborative learning and sharing. This collective endeavor aims to create a robust Science-Technology-Innovation ecosystem, crucial for addressing developmental challenges and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

As the global community moves forward, the insights gained from this Conclave will play a vital role in shaping effective partnerships and fostering sustainable development across Southern nations.