South Africa hosts China’s Vice Minister of Science and Technology
Date: 2026-03-27
By: Kanto Kai Okanta
South
Africa has hosted China’s Vice Minister of Science and Technology, Chen
Jiachang, for a courtesy visit at the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory
(SARAO), reinforcing bilateral cooperation in science, technology, and
innovation.
The
engagement followed the 9th South Africa–China Bi-National Commission, where
Deputy President Paul Mashatile met with China’s Vice President Han Zheng. The
discussions highlighted the long-standing partnership between the two nations,
formalized under the 1999 Science and Technology Agreement.
Deputy
Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Nomalungelo Gina noted that
more than 150 joint research and development projects have been implemented
under this collaboration. Key areas of focus include open science, artificial
intelligence, and emerging technologies vital for global competitiveness and
national development.
The
visit also emphasized deepening cooperation in astronomy. SARAO CEO Pontsho
Maruping briefed on ongoing research activities involving Chinese scientists.
China continues to play a critical role in the SKAO in South Africa project,
including manufacturing and designing 15‑metre SKA‑Mid dishes through CETC54.
Officials
reiterated their commitment to expanding opportunities for researchers and
emerging scientists, ensuring sustained technological and scientific
collaboration between the two countries.
