DAY 1: Theme: Understanding Science Diplomacy: Concepts, Contexts and Actors

• 08:00 – 08:30

  Registration and Welcome Coffee

  Participants arrive, register, and network.

Opening Ceremony

• 08:30 – 09:30

  Opening Remarks and Programme Overview

  Opening remarks by the Organisers and Partners, followed by an overview of the workshop objectives, learning journey and expected outcomes.

  • Opening remarks by Maseno University
  • Welcoming remarks by ISTIC
  • Welcoming remarks by Future Earth Africa Hub Leadership Centre

Theme I: Understanding Science Diplomacy — Concepts, Contexts and Actors

• 09:30 – 10:00 Session by: Prof. Kowenje

  Keynote Address: Unlocking Africa's Science, Technology and Innovation Dividend through Science Diplomacy

• 10:00 – 10:30

  Morning Coffee Break

  Refreshments and networking opportunity.

• 10:30 – 12:00 Session by: TBC

  Module 1.1: Foundations of Science Diplomacy

  Part 1 — Conceptual Overview

  • Origins and evolution of science diplomacy
  • The three dimensions of science diplomacy
  • Science diplomacy in global governance
  • Science diplomacy for sustainable development

  Part 2 — Interactive Dialogue

  Participants reflect on:

  • Where science intersects with policy in their work
  • How science diplomacy can strengthen their research, institution or organisation

• 12:00 – 13:00

  Lunch Break

  Lunch provided on-site.

• 13:00 – 14:30 Session by: TBC

  Module 1.2: Science Diplomacy in Africa and the Global South

  This session examines the role of science diplomacy in addressing regional priorities and advancing sustainable development across Africa and the Global South.

  Key Themes

  • Science diplomacy in Africa and the Global South
  • Regional cooperation and integration
  • Science diplomacy for sustainable development
  • South–South and triangular cooperation

  Interactive Dialogue

  Participants discuss:

  • Opportunities and challenges for advancing science diplomacy across East Africa and the wider Global South

• 14:30 – 15:30 Session by: TBC

  Module 1.3: The Science Diplomacy Ecosystem

  Participants explore the institutions, actors and partnerships that shape science diplomacy at national, regional and international levels.

  Actors Include

  • Government ministries
  • Universities and research institutions
  • National academies and research councils
  • Regional organisations
  • International organisations
  • Civil society
  • Private sector

  Interactive Activity

  Participants work in groups to develop a stakeholder map for a selected regional challenge, identifying key actors, their respective roles and opportunities for collaboration.

• 15:30 – 15:45

  Afternoon Break

  Refreshments and networking opportunity.

• 15:45 – 16:45 Session by: TBC

  Module 1.4: Signature Exercise — The 60-Second Science Diplomacy Pitch

  Participants present their research, professional work or institutional role in one minute as if speaking to a policymaker, development partner or potential international collaborator.

  Objectives

  • Practise concise and effective communication
  • Demonstrate the policy and societal relevance of research and professional work
  • Introduce participants' expertise and interests
  • Foster networking and future collaboration

  Peer and facilitator feedback will be provided.

16:45 — End of Day 1