South Africa Celebrates 20 Years of Scientific Collaboration with Russia
Dubna, Russia – In a clear affirmation of South Africa’s commitment to multilateral scientific cooperation, a high-level delegation led by Dr. Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, CEO of the National Research Foundation (NRF), visited the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR) in Dubna to celebrate 20 years of partnership.
The event, held under the banner “South Africa Days at JINR,” not only marked two decades of bilateral collaboration but also aligned with the strategic objectives outlined in the BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Framework, reinforcing South Africa’s role in advancing shared scientific priorities across the Global South.
The South African delegation included senior NRF executives, representatives from the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) ,leadership from Universities South Africa (USAf), and members of various national science councils. Their presence underscored the strategic importance of the partnership and South Africa’s growing influence in global scientific networks, particularly within the BRICS bloc.
A Milestone in Science Diplomacy
During the opening ceremony, Dr. Grigory Trubnikov, Director of JINR and former Deputy Minister of Education and Science of the Russian Federation, welcomed the South African delegation and described the visit as a historic milestone in the long-standing relationship between the two countries.
“The presence of Dr. Nelwamondo and his team reflects the depth of our partnership and the shared vision we hold for scientific advancement,” said Dr. Trubnikov.
“This collaboration is a model of how science can transcend borders and fostermutual growth.”
In hiskeynote address, Dr. Nelwamondo emphasized the broader significance of thepartnership, not only in terms of research output but also in building bridgesbetween nations.
“SouthAfrica Days at JINR is not just a conference — it is a celebration ofscientific diplomacy, shared discovery, and a 20-year journey of innovation andcooperation between our nations,” he said.
A Legacy of Collaboration
AlthoughSouth Africa’s formal associate membership with JINR began in 2005, the rootsof collaboration stretch back to 1994, when South African institutions suchas Stellenbosch University, the University of South Africa(UNISA), and the University of Pretoria began engagingwith JINR researchers. Over the years, this partnership has expandedsignificantly, now involving 14 South African universities and researchcouncils.
Thecollaboration spans a wide range of scientific disciplines, with key focusareas including:
- Nuclear Physics
- Radiobiology and Radiochemistry
- Materials Science
- Engineering and Chemistry
These areasare not only central to JINR’s research agenda but also align with SouthAfrica’s national priorities and the BRICS STI Working Group themes,which emphasize joint research in frontier technologies, sustainabledevelopment, and capacity building.
Showcasing Scientific Excellence
Throughout the week-long event, South African researchers presented a series of joint research projects conducted under the JINR multilateral programme. These presentations highlighted how international collaboration accelerates scientific breakthroughs and fosters innovation that benefits both nations.
One of the standout sessions focused on materials science, where researchers demonstrated how advanced materials developed through JINR collaborations are being applied in energy storage, medical imaging, and industrial processes. Another session on radiobiology explored the use of particle beams in cancer treatment, a field where South African and Russian scientists are making significant strides together.
“These projects are not just academic exercises,” said one South African researcher. “They have real-world applications that can improve lives and drive economic development.”
Investing in the Next Generation
A major highlight of the event was the emphasis on human capital development. Since the beginning of the partnership, nearly 500 South African students and early-career researchers have participated in training, mentorship, and exchange programmes at JINR. These opportunities have provided them with access to world-class facilities, international networks, and hands-on experience in cutting-edge research.
This focus on youth development directly supports the BRICS Young Scientist Forum and the BRICS Talent Exchange Programme, both of which aim to foster anew generation of globally connected researchers who can contribute toinclusive and sustainable development.
“Ourinvestment in people is the most important legacy of this partnership,”said Dr. Nelwamondo. “By equipping young scientists with the tools andnetworks they need, we are building a future where South Africa is a leader inglobal science.”
The event also included a special youth forum, where South African and Russian studentsshared their experiences and discussed future collaboration opportunities. Manyparticipants expressed appreciation for the cultural exchange and the chance towork alongside peers from different backgrounds.
Looking Ahead
As the event concluded, both South African and Russian officials reaffirmed theircommitment to deepening the partnership. Plans are already underway to expandjoint research initiatives, increase student mobility, and explore new areas ofcollaboration such as quantum computing, climate science,and space research—all of which are priority areas in the BRICS STI Roadmap.
“Science is at its most effective when it unites nations in the pursuit of knowledge forthe common good,” Dr. Nelwamondo said in his closing remarks. “Ourpartnership with JINR is not just about research. It is about empoweringpeople, transforming institutions, and contributing solutions to globalchallenges that demand global cooperation.”
