The Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) entered into an agreement with the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) for the advancement of science on the continent.

The memorandum of agreement (MoU) signed by Professor Himla Soodyall, Executive Officer of ASSAf on behalf of ASSAf President, Professor Jonathan Jansen, and the Honorable Roger Nkodo Dang, President of PAP, paves the way for effective collaboration on activities of common interest, particularly the development of science academies within the continent, the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Priority areas of cooperation will be derived from the AU’s Agenda 2063 vision of “an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa representing a dynamic force in global arena”, in particular its aspiration for an Africa whose development is people-driven, relying on the potential of African people, especially its women and youth, and caring for children.

Goal 4 of the SDGs urging a refocus of efforts to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all” is another area of focus, as is the implementation of the United Nations 2030 Agenda