The Joint Meeting of Ministers of Education and Training and Science, Technology and Innovation serves as a high-level platform for the review and consider progress in the implementation of Southern African Development Community (SADC) programmes and initiatives within the respective sectors. This Joint Ministerial meeting plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the goals of regional integration, development, and innovation are effectively realised through education, training, science, technology, and innovation.
During the meeting, Ministers will assess the extent to which decisions taken in previous sessions have been executed and will identify key achievements, challenges, and opportunities in advancing the SADC regional agenda. The review will cover the implementation of various protocols, policies, and programmes that underpin regional collaboration in the areas of education, skills development, scientific research, innovation, and technology transfer.
In addition, the Ministers will receive comprehensive updates on ongoing and planned initiatives aimed at strengthening national and regional systems of education and training, as well as science, technology, and innovation (STI). This includes efforts to promote inclusive and equitable education, enhance quality and relevance of learning, foster innovation ecosystems, support knowledge generation, and improve access to and use of technology for sustainable development.
The Joint Meeting also plays a critical advisory role by providing strategic policy guidance and recommendations to the SADC Council of Ministers. These inputs are essential for shaping future actions, allocating resources, and refining regional priorities in line with the broader SADC vision and goals.
Overall, this Ministerial platform reinforces SADC’s commitment to building a knowledge-based economy, empowering citizens through education and innovation, and promoting sustainable socio-economic development across the region.
