The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) Science Diplomacy Summer School 2025 for early to mid-career Researchers (Funded to Johannesburg, South Africa) Deadline: 22 September, 2025

Applications are now open for the 2025 Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) Science Diplomacy Summer School. Science diplomacy is emerging as a critical instrument for addressing shared global challenges. Leveraging the principles of international collaboration, mutual trust, and evidence-informed policymaking, science diplomacy offers unique pathways for advancing sustainable development.

The 10 day program developed in collaboration with government departments (DIRCO, DSTI), local and regional think tanks ( The Science Diplomacy Capital of Africa (SDCfA), Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR,) Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf), South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS), the African Academy of Sciences (AAS) and The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and networks to leverage science-policy-diplomacy interfaces for Africa’s sustainable development and global engagement.

Program Structure

The Summer School will include keynote readings, and practical exercises to apply lessons learned. The program will be structured as follows:

• Online Introductory sessions: 15-17 October
• In-person content sessions: 19-24 October (hybrid)
• Online evaluation sessions: October 24

Eligibility Requirements

Applications are invited from:

• Researchers (early to mid-career) in the social and natural sciences based in Africa;
• Policymakers and government officials engaged in international cooperation and evidence-informed policymaking across the continent;
• The diplomatic community

Support

• • The program is offered at no cost to selected participants. Limited support towards travel and/or accommodation may be considered for participants based outside South Africa, subject to availability.
  • Applicants are requested to indicate in their application if they would like to be considered for such support.
  • Kindly note that HSRC sponsorship will not cover personal expenses, visa fees, medical costs, or incidental expenses.

Application Process

Interested applicants are requested to submit:

• A completed  online application form.
• A motivation letter (maximum 200 words) explaining interest, relevance to their career, and expected contribution.
• A short CV (maximum 3 pages).
• Endorsement letter from their employer/host institution confirming support and availability for the 10-day program.

Applications should be submitted online via  Science Diplomacy Summer School  no later than 22 September 2025 (23:59 SAST).

For enquiries, please contact: Lumka Luzipho at  LLuzipho@hsrc.ac.za

Timeline:

• Call for Applications Opens: 05 September 2025
• Deadline for Applications: September 22, 2025
• Notification of Selected Participants: September 26, 2025
• Program Dates: 15–24 October 2025

For More Information: