On 26 September 2023, UNU will host “Higher Education, Science and Innovation for Sustainability: Unlocking Africa’s Potential”, a conversation with Dr. Blade Nzimande, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of South Africa. The event will start at 18:00 in the 2F Reception Hall at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo.
Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its journey towards sustainable development. As it navigates the challenges and opportunities on this path, the significance of higher education cannot be overstated. Higher education is vital for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (quality education), and is a catalyst for equipping Africa's youth with the skills needed to address pressing environmental and social challenges.
Dr. Blade Nzimande will join Dr. Shinobu Yume Yamaguchi, Director of the UNU Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability, to discuss the future of the African continent in terms of higher education for sustainability. What progress has been achieved towards SDG 4 in the region? What are the major obstacles and opportunities ahead? And finally, what strategies can be pursued to make sure no one is left behind?
The UNU Conversation Series aims to foster audience participation; you are encouraged to engage with the speakers during the conversation and at the reception that will follow, where all audience members are invited to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks while exchanging ideas and making new contacts.
Please note that this event will be in English. Advance registration (by 25 September) is required. Please click on the REGISTER button above to access the online registration page.
Also note that entry into the venue will not be allowed after 18:15. Please be prepared to present identification at check-in.
About the Speaker
Dr. Bonginkosi Emmanuel "Blade" Nzimande was appointed the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of South Africa on 30 May 2019. Among his responsibilities, he has led projects and initiatives in the fight against COVID-19, including the establishment and funding of the genomic surveillance project that led to the discovery of variants of COVID-19.
Dr. Nzimande served as Member of Parliament and Chair of the Portfolio Committee between 1994 and 1999. Prior to the establishment of a democratic South Africa in 1994, Dr. Nzimande had served in various roles as an anti-apartheid activist in academia, community organizations and non-governmental organizations supporting the democratic labour movement.
Dr. Nzimande served as a member of the National Executive Committee of the African National Congress from 1994 until 2017, and again from 2019 to December 2022. He was a General Secretary of the South African Communist Party from July 1998 until July 2022, and appointed the National Chairperson of the Party from July 2022 to present.
Dr. Nzimande holds a Doctorate of Philosophy in Sociology (specializing in Industrial and Labour Studies) from the University of Natal, attained in 1992.
