The Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf), and the South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS), in partnership with the World Academy of Science sub-Saharan Africa Regional Partner (TWAS-SAREP), the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), will jointly host the Annual Young Scientists’ Conference (AYSC) on 13-14 October 2025. ASSAf and its partners invite applications from young scientists based in South Africa and across Sub-Saharan Africa to participate in the 2025 AYSC. This transdisciplinary conference will serve as a platform for scientific exchange, through collaboration, networking, and knowledge sharing among young African researchers from diverse fields.      

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Conference Theme

The 2025 AYSC will adopt the S20 theme of Climate Change and Well-being to provide early-career scholars with a platform to engage on the nexus of food, water, land, energy, society and climate change. The conference will promote inclusive, cross-sectoral solutions to build resilience and sustainability. The scientific contributions of early-career researchers are crucial in shaping the future well-being of humans and the planet.

The AYSC serves as a dynamic forum where researchers and innovators converge to exchange ideas, forge collaborations, and chart the course for scientific advancement in Africa and beyond. Against the backdrop of rapid technological advancement and global interconnectedness, this gathering represents a critical opportunity to harness the collective intellect and creativity of Africa’s brightest minds. At the heart of the conference lies a recognition of the multifaceted challenges facing African communities and the indispensable role of science in addressing them. From healthcare disparities to environmental sustainability, technological innovation to socio-economic development,  the solutions to Africa’s most pressing issues and those of the world at large hinge upon robust scientific ecosystems characterised by curiosity, rigour, and inclusivity.

Moreover, the AYSC fosters scientific collaboration and knowledge sharing by connecting experts with emerging talent and promoting peer mentorship. This supportive network transcends borders and disciplines, embodying Africa’s rich intellectual history and future innovation potential. The conference will feature the following sub-themes are:

• Climate Change Impact on Human and Planetary Health
• Equity in Climate Action
• Resilience in Adaptation and Mitigation: A Holistic Approach

Eligibility

Applicants should meet the following criteria to participate:

– Reside within a sub-Saharan African country.
– Be below the age of forty (40) by the deadline date of the call.
– Hold a minimum of a Master’s degree, and be either a current PhD candidate, PhD Graduate, or a Post-doctoral researcher.  
– Demonstrate research interest aligned with one or more of the conference sub-themes.
– Commit to attending the full duration of the conference.
– Submit a relevant abstract for an oral or poster presentation.
– Young scientists who presented/participated in previous SAYAS led conferences will not be considered.

Application 

All applications must be submitted via this link on or before the closing date: AYSC 2025 Application Form ( please note:  A Gmail account is required to access the form, as it includes a file upload feature)

The online application form must be completed in full and submitted by 8 August 2025. For any inquiries, please contact: Kholani Mbhiza @ kholani@assaf.org.za. There is no registration fee required to attend the conference. Successful applicants will receive further information about the conference via email.