The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the African Academy of Sciences (AAS) are proud to announce a new partnership aimed at promoting the transformative agenda of Science4Peace in Africa. This landmark collaboration seeks to harness the power of science, technology, and innovation to build sustainable peace and accelerate progress toward the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Echoing this vision, Nikhil Seth, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of UNITAR, stated: "Science and diplomacy are essential tools in our collective quest for peace and sustainable development. Through this partnership with AAS, we are committed to supporting African leadership in driving scientific solutions that address global challenges and advance peace for all."

Recognizing that conflict is a key barrier to scientific cooperation and development, the partnership will focus on leveraging interdisciplinary research and science diplomacy to address the root causes of conflict, including resource scarcity, health crises, and climate-induced displacement. Science4Peace represents an inclusive approach to fostering positive peace—creating conditions for social justice, inclusive development, and environmental sustainability.

Professor Lise Korsten, President of the African Academy of Sciences, noted:
"This partnership is a significant step forward in empowering African scientists to lead global efforts in addressing the nexus between science and peace. Together with UNITAR, we aim to catalyze innovation and collaboration that will contribute to sustainable peace and development on the continent."

This partnership aims to promote science diplomacy by integrating scientific research into international peacebuilding efforts, strengthening capacity-building through tailored training programs, and equipping scientists with the skills needed to address conflict-sensitive challenges. It will also facilitate interdisciplinary research and innovation, focusing on critical areas such as climate action, public health, and education, while advancing community-driven solutions that ensure equitable access to scientific advancements for all populations, particularly marginalized groups. Additionally, the collaboration seeks to raise awareness about the pivotal role of science in fostering peace and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Aligned with the SDGs, the partnership will prioritize thematic areas that address pressing global challenges, including SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). These focus areas highlight the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and cooperative efforts in leveraging science and innovation to build a more just, equitable, and sustainable future.

The collaboration will also support efforts to reverse brain drain by creating conditions that encourage African scientists and researchers to remain on the continent and contribute to sustainable development in their countries.

Moving Forward
UNITAR and AAS will co-develop and implement programs such as science diplomacy events, training workshops, and research initiatives. Together, the two organizations aim to inspire a new generation of African scientists and policymakers to champion innovative solutions for peacebuilding and sustainable development.

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NOTES TO EDITORS

The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) 
UNITAR is a dedicated training arm of the United Nations that empowers individuals, organizations, and governments through knowledge-sharing and capacity-building initiatives.

The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) 
The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) is a non-aligned, non-political, not-for-profit pan African organisation whose vision is to see transformed lives on the African continent through science. Our tripartite mandate is recognising excellence, providing advisory and think tank functions, and implementing key STI programmes addressing Africa’s developmental challenges.

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