MBABANE — The Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology, through its Department of Research, Science, Technology and Innovation, hosted the Space Science Indaba on Wednesday, creating a national platform focused on space science, satellite technology and innovation as tools for sustainable development.
Held under the theme “Harnessing Space Science for Sustainable Development”, the Indaba brought together government officials, academics, industry leaders, international partners and young innovators to discuss how space based technologies can support service delivery, research and economic growth in Eswatini.
The Principal Secretary, who was represented at the event, spoke on government’s commitment to using space science to support inclusive development in line with national, regional and continental priorities.
“Eswatini’s ambition in space is clear. We aim to leverage space science and technology as a catalyst for socio economic transformation,” the Principal Secretary said.
The remarks also outlined ongoing initiatives within the sector, including investments in high performance computing infrastructure, space related services, youth empowerment programmes and strategic partnerships. These efforts form part of the Ministry’s Government in Your Hand initiative, which seeks to build a knowledge based and digitally inclusive society.
RSTI Director officially welcomed stakeholders and said the country is taking concrete steps to position itself within the global space ecosystem. She pointed to progress towards the development of a National Space Policy and Strategy, describing space science as a practical instrument for national development.
“Eswatini is no longer a bystander in the global scientific community. Today, we assert our place on that stage,” she said.
Regional and international partners also pledged continued cooperation with Eswatini. Among those supporting the Indaba were the African Space Agency, the South African National Space Agency and the Group on Earth Observations based in Geneva.
The Space Science Indaba forms part of the Ministry’s broader international engagements, including cooperation agreements facilitated by the Minister with India, participation in the global 108 Girls in Space initiative and a memorandum of understanding signed with Google. These partnerships are intended to strengthen capacity building, innovation and global collaboration in space science.
The Ministry also called on young people and students to actively pursue Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
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