The City of Tshwane recently hosted the prestigious 13th World Conference of Science Journalists 2025 at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research International Convention Centre. Under the theme Science journalism and social justice, the event placed Tshwane at the centre of vital global discussions on equity, sustainability and innovation.
From 1 to 5 December 2025, Tshwane welcomed more than 400 delegates from 73 countries for 58 sessions, 199 speakers and 21 field trips. Discussions highlighted urgent themes such as countering climate misinformation, applying AI to food security and advancing gender-inclusive reporting all while amplifying African scientific voices on the world stage.
Key sessions covered AI-driven crop modelling, drone use in disaster response and community-led climate adaptation, with a strong emphasis on women’s leadership. A notable plenary on decolonising science narratives encouraged the integration of indigenous knowledge into global science communication.
The conference also fostered cross-continental collaboration, with journalists exchanging strategies to uphold scientific integrity. Field trips to local innovation sites, including Council for Scientific and Industrial Research International Convention Centre labs, showcased South African research excellence.
Hosting the World Conference of Science Journalists 2025 aligns with Tshwane’s commitment to being a hub for meaningful dialogue and innovation. It reflects our support for knowledge economies and amplifies local expertise internationally.
The conference director, Engela Duvenage, thanked the City of Tshwane and partners for helping set a new benchmark in inclusive science reporting.
The event was organised by the South African Science Journalists’ Association in collaboration with the Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research International Convention Centre and the City of Tshwane.
Delegates departed equipped with new tools and connections to advance ethical, equitable science journalism worldwide, a mission strongly supported by Tshwane’s role as a forward-thinking host city.