UK Commits £50 Million for Collaborative Science and Research with South Africa

The UK has pledged £50 million (R1 billion) for the International Science Partnership Fund, a new initiative aimed at fostering collaboration in science and research between the UK and South Africa over the next two years. The announcement was made by the British High Commissioner during a reception attended by South Africa's Minister of Science and Innovation, Blade Nzimande, and His Royal Highness Prince Edward, The Duke of Edinburgh.

Minister Nzimande expressed South Africa's warm welcome for the fund, emphasizing the importance of co-designing and co-funding programs with the UK to align with national priorities. The fund will also support initiatives related to the Square Kilometre Array Observatory global partnership, particularly in developing radio astronomy skills in Africa.

The investment will strengthen research partnerships, address non-communicable diseases, promote economic growth, foster talent development, advance climate change understanding, and support research and innovation systems across South Africa. This commitment reinforces the long-standing science and technology partnership between the UK and South Africa, aligning with their mutual priority sectors and global challenges.