What is STI Week 2026?

STI Week 2026 is a high-level continental convening organised by the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) to accelerate the implementation of the Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA-2034) and strengthen coordination across Africa's science, innovation and digital transformation ecosystems.

When and where will STI Week 2026 take place?

STI Week 2026 will be held from 10-12 February 2026 at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Who is organising the event?

The event is organised by the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC) and strategic continental and international partners.

Who should attend?

The event is designed for:

• Ministers and senior government officials responsible for education, science, technology and innovation
• Policy makers and regulators
• Universities and research institutions
• Science granting councils and innovation agencies
• Private-sector technology and innovation leaders
• Development partners, foundations and investors
• Youth innovators and research fellows

What are the main highlights of STI Week 2026?

Key highlights include:

• The official launch of the STISA-2034 Implementation Plan
• The official launch of the Africa EdTech 2030 Vision & Plan
• High-level policy dialogues on frontier and emerging technologies
• Science granting councils and funding coordination dialogues
• The Calestous Juma Fellows policy engagement sessions
• Youth and innovation leadership conversations
• An innovation exhibition showcasing African solutions

What is STISA-2034 and why is it important?

STISA-2034 is the African Union's continental strategy that guides how science, technology and innovation contribute to Africa's development priorities. It focuses on strengthening research systems, building skills and infrastructure, supporting emerging technologies, and ensuring that innovation directly contributes to inclusive growth and sustainable development across the continent.

What is the Africa EdTech 2030 Vision & Plan?

The Africa EdTech 2030 Vision & Plan is AUDA-NEPAD's continental framework for strengthening digital education systems in Africa. It provides practical guidance for countries on digital public infrastructure for education, interoperability standards, digital courseware, teacher digital capacity and data-driven education planning.

Is the event open to the public?

STI Week 2026 is an open invitation but registration-based event. Participation is prioritised for institutional stakeholders, partners and invited delegates.

Will the sessions be available online?

One session, the STISA 2034 Townhall, will be offered in hybrid format. Access details will be shared with registered participants ahead of the event.

Will there be an exhibition?

Yes. An innovation exhibition will run throughout the event, featuring African-led science, technology and digital solutions aligned to STISA-2034 priority sectors.

How can partners and organisations participate?

Partners may participate through:

• Speaking and panel engagements (by invitation)
• Exhibition showcases
• Technical and programme partnerships aligned to STISA-2034 and the Africa EdTech 2030 Vision & Plan

Who can I contact for further information?

For programme and participation inquiries, please contact the STI Week 2026 coordination team through the official event communication channels provided on this page.

For further information, please contact: