Empowering young innovators: The role of youth in Africa's technological transformation

Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina

Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina

Published Dec 7, 2024

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Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, has highlighted the crucial role young people must play in driving innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa.

Speaking at the Youth in Innovation Symposium on Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, she urged governments, industries, and educational institutions to support young entrepreneurs in transforming their innovative ideas into viable businesses.

The symposium was hosted in Pretoria ahead of a two-day 2024 Science Forum South Africa, which concluded yesterday.

It was aimed at empowering young innovators by exploring the potential of emerging technologies to address pressing challenges such as food security, poverty, and climate change.

The event is aligned with the African Union's 2024 theme for education, "Educate and Skill Africa for the 21st Century," which highlights the importance of inclusive, lifelong learning in building resilient education systems.

Gina noted that by 2050, Africa will be home to over a quarter of the global youth population, presenting a significant opportunity for economic and social transformation.

She also acknowledged Africa's progress in digital technology and the growing impact of artificial intelligence-driven initiatives as reasons for optimism.

The event was organised in partnership with the African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa's Development and the United Nations in South Africa.

Gina's call to action underscores the importance of supporting young innovators in driving Africa's socio-economic development through technological innovation.

She cited Africa's advancements in digital technology and the growing impact of artificial intelligence-driven initiatives across the continent as reasons for hope.

Gina mentioned South Africa's current leadership of the G20 and its support for initiatives like the BRICS Young Scientist Forum and Young Innovator Prize.

The prize recognises young people making significant contributions to socio-economic development through technological innovation.

Related Topics:

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