Where science meets decision-making
The Science Summit during UNGA81 brings together leaders from governments, United Nations agencies, academia, industry, development banks, philanthropy and civil society to explore how science and innovation can accelerate sustainable development.
The New York programme combines plenary discussions, parallel thematic sessions and high-level networking opportunities covering food security, artificial intelligence, global health, climate action, science diplomacy and sustainable finance.
- Online from 14 –30 September 2026
- New York in-person from 21 to 25 Septermber
- Nairobi in-person from 28 to 20 September
A Summit Designed for Collaboration
Unlike many conferences that focus on a single discipline, the Science Summit deliberately brings together communities that do not often meet in the same room.
- Scientists engage with policymakers.
- Researchers meet investors.
- Universities collaborate with industry.
- International organisations work with entrepreneurs, philanthropies and development banks.
These conversations create new partnerships, new ideas and new opportunities to move scientific knowledge from research into policy, investment and real-world impact.
- Science-based evidence to inform policy
- Turning science into solutions
- Driving sustainable innovation
- Strengthening global cooperation
A platform built for youth leadership, action, and influence
Anchored in the World Health Summit Regional Meeting 2026 theme, this event convenes young professionals, researchers, students, advocates and innovators to engage in structured discussions that are practical, forward-looking, and policy-relevant.
- Move beyond symbolic participation to meaningful youth power
- Shape health systems conversations at local, national, and regional levels
- Contribute recommendations that inform the wider Summit
- Connect with peers, institutions, and partners across Africa
2
Days of Engagement
6
30+
200+
A space built for dialogue, action, and connection
Structured Breakout Dialogue
Sessions are designed to generate practical insights and recommendations that can influence decision-making, investment priorities, and accountability mechanisms across health systems.
Interactive Conversations
Cross-Continental Connection
Session tracks
Track 1: Youth as Architects of Health System Resilience
Explore how youth leadership can help build resilient, future-ready health systems in the face of demographic change, urbanisation, digital transformation, and shifting disease burdens.
- Digital Health, AI and Youth-Driven Innovation
- Climate Change, Planetary Health, and Youth Action
- Health Workforce of the Future: Youth at the Centre
Track 2: The Role of Youth in Reimagining Health Systems
- Health Equity, Gender, and Social Justice
- Financing Health & Investing in Youth
- Conflict, Migration, and Urbanization
Life Conversation
Scroll Smart: What to believe in the Age of AI and Online Influence. Digital platforms now shape how health information is created, shared, and trusted. This session explores how young advocates, creators, and health professionals can navigate online influence, rebuild public trust, and advance youth-driven digital health leadership.
A diverse community of young changemakers
- University Students
- Young Health Professionals
- Early-Career Researchers
- Youth-Led & Youth-Focused Organisations
- Civil Society & Development Partners
- Health Innovators & Entrepreneurs
What this event will produce
Actionable Policy Insights
New Partnerships
Youth Declaration / Roadmap
Greater Visibility for Youth Leadership
New York Programme
The Science Summit NYC programme, taking place in New York from 21–25 September alongside the United Nations General Assembly, will bring together policymakers, scientists, international organisations, industry leaders, civil society, youth representatives, Indigenous communities, and development partners to explore the role of science, innovation, and international cooperation in addressing global challenges and advancing sustainable development.
The programme will focus on key strategic areas including climate resilience, food systems, health, biodiversity, AI, digital infrastructures, science diplomacy, sustainable finance, gender equality, youth leadership, and global partnerships.
Particular attention will be given to strengthening South–South and triangular scientific cooperation, promoting more equitable global research ecosystems, and supporting the growing leadership of countries from the Global South in shaping international scientific agendas, innovation systems, and sustainable development pathways
Monday, 21 September 2026 (EDT)
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
OPENING
The Science Summit will open with a high-level dialogue bringing together leaders from government, international organisations, industry, finance and academia to explore how science, technology and innovation can drive solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.
10:00 AM – 13:00 PM
Parallel 1 | Food Systems and Sustainable Agriculture
This session will examine how science, innovation, and sustainable agriculture can support resilient food systems, food security, and climate adaptation while strengthening livelihoods and ecosystems in LMIC and globally.
• Climate-resilient agriculture
• Food security and nutrition
• Sustainable food systems
• Regenerative agriculture
• Agricultural innovation and technology
• Biodiversity and farming systems
Participating organisations
Global Flagship Initiative for Food Security, African Development Bank, Islamic Development Bank, BADEA, OPEC Fund for International Development, Saudi Fund for Development, CGIAR, UNCCD, Crop Trust, national governments, research institutions and private-sector partners.
10:00 AM – 13:00 PM
Parallel 2 | Science Data and Artificial Intelligence
⇒ AI for Science, Innovation and Sustainable Development
Artificial Intelligence is transforming scientific discovery and accelerating innovation across every discipline. Technology leaders and policymakers discuss how AI can support research, strengthen public services and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
⇒ Building Trusted AI Ecosystems
Developing trustworthy AI requires strong governance, international cooperation and sustained investment. This session examines how governments, industry and academia can work together to build secure, ethical and inclusive AI ecosystems that benefit society.
⇒ AI Fluency: A Core Competence for the 21st Century
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly becoming an essential capability across science, education, business and public administration. This opening session explores how AI literacy can empower individuals and institutions while ensuring that innovation remains responsible, inclusive and accessible to all.
Participating organisations
European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), European Commission, IRCAI (UNESCO), International Federation of Business and Professional Women (BPW), universities and education partners.
10:00 AM – 13:00 PM
Parallel 3 | Environment and Biodiversity
Protecting the environment is essential to achieving sustainable development, strengthening climate resilience and safeguarding biodiversity. This plenary will bring together leaders from science, policy, finance and industry to explore how science-based solutions and international collaboration can accelerate the transition to a more sustainable future.
⇒ Science for the Amazon: Building a Sustainable Future
Scientific knowledge is essential to protecting one of the world’s most important ecosystems. This session explores how research, indigenous knowledge and international cooperation can support biodiversity conservation, climate resilience and sustainable development across the Amazon Basin.
⇒ Youth Leadership for Sustainable Development
Young scientists, innovators and entrepreneurs present new ideas for addressing global challenges and demonstrate how the next generation is contributing to scientific leadership and sustainable development.
Participating organisations
Science Panel for the Amazon, Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank, Amazonian governments, research institutes and indigenous organisations.
13:00 PM – 14:00 PM
Lunch Break
14:00 PM – 17:00 PM
Parallel 1 | Open Science and Research Excellence
Fronteirs Science House
The Science House Roadshow extends the dialogue initiated at Frontiers Science House in Davos to major international forums throughout the year, fostering continuity in scientific and policy discussions ahead of the next Science House in 2027. Following its launch at the World Economic Forum’s 17th Annual Meeting of the New Champions in Dalian, China, the Roadshow continues in New York alongside the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and Climate Week NYC.
The New York edition will convene leaders from science, policy, philanthropy, industry and international organisations to explore how scientific evidence can inform decision-making and strengthen cross-sector collaboration. The programme will focus on three strategic themes: financing the future of science, emerging technologies for the energy transition, and the science, policy and governance of geoengineering.
14:00 PM – 17:00 PM
Parallel 2 | Partnership for Global Food security
This strategic dialogue brings together international organisations, financial institutions and policymakers to explore long-term partnerships and innovative financing mechanisms that can accelerate the transformation of global food systems.
14:00 PM – 17:00 PM
Parallel 3 | Accelerating Agricultural Innovation for Africa
This strategic dialogue brings together international organisations, financial institutions and policymakers to explore long-term partnerships and innovative financing mechanisms that can accelerate the transformation of global food systems.
This session highlights research partnerships, technology transfer and practical solutions supporting sustainable agriculture across Africa.
Key topics
• Agricultural research
• Climate-smart agricuture
• Technology transfer
• Food security
• Capacity building
• Technology transfer
Participating organisations
ILRI, CGIAR Centres, African universities, development agencies, research institutes and agricultural innovation partners.
Tuesday, 28 April 2026
9:00 AM – 13:00 PM
Parallel 1 | Science and Innovation Across the Islamic World
This opening session explores how scientific cooperation across the Islamic world can accelerate sustainable development through innovation, education and international partnerships. It highlights opportunities for collaboration between research institutions, governments and multilateral organisations.
Key topics
- International scientific cooperation
- Innovation ecosystems
- Science diplomacy
- Food security
- Higher education partnerships
- Capacity development
Participating organisations
ICESCO, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), universities, ministries of science and higher education, research councils and international partners.
9:00 AM – 13:00 PM
Parallel 2 | Global Health and One Health
⇒ Session 1: Building Resilient Health Systems Through Partnership
Health challenges increasingly require coordinated action across human, animal and environmental health. This session explores innovative partnerships, research collaboration and financing mechanisms that strengthen resilient and equitable health systems worldwide.
Key topics
- One Health
- Pandemic preparedness
- Vaccine innovation
- Health system resilience
- Public-private partnerships
Participating organisations
Nuvance Health, South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), EDCTP, IQVIA, Transform Health, International Vaccine Institute (IVI), La Caixa Foundation, Gavi and research institutions.
⇒ Session 2: Accelerating Clinical Research and Global Health Innovation
International research partnerships are essential for accelerating the development of new diagnostics, vaccines and treatments. This session explores how collaborative clinical research can improve health outcomes and strengthen preparedness for future health emergencies.
Key topics
- Clinical research
- Vaccine development
- Equitable access to innovation
- Research capacity
- Global health partnerships
Participating organisations
EDCTP, World Health Organization (WHO), Africa CDC, Gates Foundation, European Commission, African research institutions, ministries of health and international funding organisations.
9:00 AM – 13:00 PM
Parallel 3 | Science Policy and evidence
⇒ Session 1: From Data to Decisions: Science Statistics for Resilient Policy and Financing
Reliable scientific data underpin effective policymaking and investment decisions. This session explores how science statistics and research indicators help governments and funding organisations develop evidence-based policies that strengthen national innovation systems.
Key topics
- Science statistics
- Research indicators
- Evidence-based policymaking
- Innovation financing
- International benchmarking
Participating organisations
UNESCO Institute for Statistics, UNESCO, OECD, RICYT, national statistical offices, ministries of science and research councils.
13:00 PM – 14:00 PM
LUNCH BREAK
14:00 PM – 17:00 PM
Parallel 1: Science for Global Resilience
⇒ Session 1: Building Resilient Societies Through Science
Scientific research plays a critical role in helping societies anticipate, withstand and recover from global challenges. This session explores how science supports resilience across food systems, health, infrastructure and climate adaptation.
Key topics
- Disaster resilience
- Climate adaptation
- Risk management
- Science-informed policy
- Sustainable development
Participating organisations
UNDRR, OECD, World Bank, European Commission, research institutions, development agencies and resilience networks.
⇒ Session 2: Science at the COPs: Preparing for UNCCD COP17 and Beyond
As countries prepare for future climate and biodiversity negotiations, this session highlights the role of science in informing international environmental agreements and supporting evidence-based policymaking for land restoration, biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.
Key topics
- Climate science
- Land restoration
- Biodiversity
- Desertification
- International environmental governance
Participating organisations
UNCCD, COP17 Presidency (Mongolia), UNEP, FAO, CGIAR, research institutes and environmental organisations.
14:00 PM – 17:00 PM
Parallel 2: One Health in action
⇒ Session 1: One Health: From policy to Innovation
The One Health approach requires collaboration across disciplines and sectors. This session presents practical examples of integrated health initiatives that address emerging infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance and environmental health challenges.
⇒ Session 2: Innovation for Disease Prevention and Global Health Security
The concluding health session explores innovative approaches to disease prevention, diagnostics, vaccines and international cooperation to strengthen global health security.
14:00 PM – 17:00 PM
Parallel 3: Global Flagship Initiative Advisory Committee Meeting
By invitation only
Wednesday, 23 September
9:00 AM – 13:00 AM
Capital, Finance and Investment for Development
⇒ Session 1: Mobilising Capital for Science and Sustainable Development
Scientific innovation requires long-term and appropriately structured investment. This session will explore how governments, development finance institutions, investors, industry and philanthropic organisations can mobilise capital for research, infrastructure, innovation and sustainable development.
⇒ Session 2: From Scientific Research to Investable Solutions
Many promising scientific ideas struggle to progress from research to implementation. This discussion will examine how research organisations, industry and investors can work together to translate scientific knowledge into scalable technologies, services and enterprises.
13:00 PM – 14:00 PM
Lunch break
14:00 PM – 17:00 PM
⇒ Session 1: Women, Finance and Investment
Women leaders from finance, investment, science and entrepreneurship will examine how more inclusive leadership can influence capital allocation and expand investment in science-based solutions. The session will also address barriers affecting women entrepreneurs, researchers and investors.
⇒ Session 2: Science Diplomacy
Science diplomacy provides a platform for international cooperation at a time of growing geopolitical, environmental and economic uncertainty. This session will explore how scientific collaboration can strengthen trust, support multilateralism and connect research communities with foreign policy and development priorities.
Thursday, 24 September
9:00 AM – 13:00 PM
⇒ From SDGs to HDGs: Hybrid Development Goals for a ProSocial AI Future
As artificial intelligence becomes embedded across society, new approaches are needed to ensure technology strengthens human wellbeing and sustainable development. This session introduces the concept of Hybrid Development Goals (HDGs) and explores how human and artificial intelligence can work together to support a more inclusive and resilient future.
Key topics
- Artificial intelligence for sustainable development
- Human-centred AI
- Hybrid Development Goals (HDGs)
- AI governance and ethics
- Post-2030 development agenda
Participating organisations
Cognativ • Sunway University • The Wharton School • Harvard University • United Nations University • International Institute for Global Health • Bond University
⇒ Living Labs for Circular Regenerative Fashion
The fashion industry is undergoing a transition towards more circular and regenerative production models. This session explores how Living Labs are helping researchers, businesses, policymakers and communities co-create innovative solutions that reduce environmental impacts while supporting sustainable economic opportunities.
Key topics
- Circular economy
- Sustainable fashion
- Living Labs
- Resource efficiency
- Circular innovation
Participating organisations
Tampere University of Applied Sciences (TAMK) • NET-INFO • DigiArt Living Lab • Knowle West Media Centre • Centre for Social Innovation (ZSI) • Laurea University of Applied Sciences
13:00 PM – 14:00 PM
Lunch break
14:00 PM – 17:00 PM
⇒ LAC-SMART Platform: Connecting Knowledge and Generating Real Impact
This session presents an integrated regional platform designed to strengthen scientific cooperation, innovation and evidence-based policymaking across Latin America and the Caribbean through collaborative research, intelligent data systems and regional partnerships.
Key topics
- Regional scientific cooperation
- Smart data systems
- Biodiversity and bioeconomy
- Public policy
- Innovation networks
Participating organisations
Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) • São Paulo State University (UNESP) • Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) • Giramundo Mutuando Institute
⇒ Ethiopia’s Science, Technology and Innovation Publications (2015–2025): A Bibliometric Review
Scientific publication data provide valuable insights into the evolution of national research systems. This session examines Ethiopia’s research performance over the past decade and discusses opportunities to strengthen scientific capacity, collaboration and innovation.
Key topics
- Research performance
- Bibliometrics
- Science policy
- Research capacity
- International collaboration
Participating organisations
Ministry of Innovation and Technology of Ethiopia • UNESCO Addis Ababa • Delegation of the European Union to the African Union
Friday, 25 September
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
⇒ Taking SDG Interactions Seriously: African Perspectives on Policy Coherence
Achieving sustainable development requires understanding the complex interactions between the Sustainable Development Goals. This session examines African perspectives on integrated policymaking, trade-offs and evidence-based development strategies.
Key topics
- SDG interactions
- Policy coherence
- Integrated development
- Climate resilience
- Food security
Participating organisations
International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) • University of Groningen • Utrecht University
⇒ Open Infrastructures for Global Health, Education and Open Science
Open scientific infrastructures are transforming research, education and healthcare worldwide. This session explores how open technologies, standards and collaborative scientific practices can strengthen accessibility, innovation and international cooperation.
Key topics
- Open science
- Research infrastructure
- Digital health
- Education
- International collaboration
Participating organisations
CNRS (France) • Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg • Humanitarian Technology Trust • CERN • openEHR International • Fundació TIC Salut i Social • Barcelona Supercomputing Center • Ottawa Bio Science • Nigerian Space Agency • ETH Zürich • Fraunhofer Institute
13:00 PM – 14:00 PM
Lunch break
14:00 PM – 17:00 PM
⇒ The Human Advantage: Leading the Brain-Positive AI Economy
As artificial intelligence transforms societies and economies, protecting and developing human cognitive, emotional and creative capacities becomes increasingly important. This session explores the emerging Brain Economy and how investment in brain health and human potential can complement technological innovation.
Key topics
- Brain health
- Artificial intelligence
- Human capital
- Innovation
- Future economies
Participating organisations
Brain Capital Alliance • NeuroCentury • US Chamber of Commerce • Google • Harvard Kennedy School • Euro-Mediterranean Economists’ Association
⇒ The Amazon, Climate and Inclusive Innovation
The Amazon is central to global climate stability, biodiversity and sustainable development. This session explores how science, technology, innovation and international cooperation can strengthen sustainable development while supporting evidence-based public policies and climate resilience.
Key topics
- Climate resilience
- Biodiversity
- Sustainable development
- Bioeconomy
- Science diplomacy
Participating organisations
Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation of Brazil • Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa)
Nairobi Programme
Monday, 28 September
Session in partnership with and hosted by the Strathmore University, Nairobi
Karen Ole Sangale Rd, off Langata Road, in Madaraka Estate, Nairobi, Kenia
9:00 AM – 13:00 PM
⇒ Artificial Intelligence in Africa: Governance, Investment and Sustainable Development
Artificial intelligence presents unprecedented opportunities to accelerate scientific discovery, economic growth and public service delivery. This plenary explores the governance frameworks, investments and partnerships needed to ensure AI contributes to inclusive and sustainable development across Africa.
Key topics
- Responsible AI governance
- AI for sustainable development
- Digital innovation
- Investment in emerging technologies
- International cooperation
13:00 PM – 14:00 PM
Lunch break
14:00 PM – 17:00 PM
⇒ Cyber Security, Digital Resilience and Strategic Investment
As Africa’s digital economy expands, strengthening cyber resilience has become increasingly important. This session examines policies, technologies and investments that support secure digital infrastructure and trusted digital ecosystems.
Key topics
- Cyber security
- Digital resilience
- Critical infrastructure
- Digital public services
⇒ Capital Markets: Science Financing, Investment and Innovation Ecosystems
Scientific excellence depends on access to sustainable finance. This session explores how governments, investors, development finance institutions and industry can mobilise capital to support research, innovation and technology-driven economic growth.
Key topics
- Science financing
- Innovation ecosystems
- Venture capital
- Public-private partnerships
- Research commercialisation
Tuesday, 29 September
Session in partnership with and hosted by the SEI and CIFOR
9:00 AM – 13:00 AM
⇒ Climate, Food Security and Sustainable Development
Africa’s climate challenges have global implications. This plenary examines how scientific research, innovation and international cooperation can strengthen climate resilience while improving food security and sustainable livelihoods.
Key topics
- Climate resilience
- Food security
- Sustainable development
- Climate adaptation
- International cooperation
⇒ Sustainable Agriculture and Nutrition
Scientific innovation is transforming agriculture and nutrition across Africa. This session highlights research and policy solutions that improve agricultural productivity, nutrition and resilient food systems.
Key topics
- Sustainable agriculture
- Nutrition
- Agricultural innovation
- Food systems
- Research partnerships
13:00 PM – 14:00 PM
Lunch break
14:00 PM – 17:00 PM
⇒ Women in Agriculture
Women are central to agricultural innovation and food security. The discussion explores how science, policy and investment can strengthen women’s leadership across Africa’s agricultural sector.
Key topics
- Women in agriculture
- Rural innovation
- Access to finance
- Leadership
- Inclusive development
⇒ Science Diplomacy, Research Partnerships and Financing
Scientific cooperation is increasingly important for addressing shared global challenges. This session explores how science diplomacy and innovative financing strengthen research partnerships across Africa and internationally.
Key topics
- Science diplomacy
- Research partnerships
- Innovation funding
- International collaboration
- Capacity building
Wednesday, 30 September
9:00 AM – 13:00 AM
PARALLEL 1 │ One Health and Science for Health in the Global South
⇒ One Health Plenary
Recognising the close links between human, animal and environmental health, this plenary explores integrated scientific approaches to disease prevention, health security and resilient health systems.
Key topics
- One Health
- Disease surveillance
- Pandemic preparedness
- Environmental health
- Health resilience
⇒ Science for Health in the Global South
Scientific collaboration is accelerating solutions to health challenges affecting low- and middle-income countries, with a focus on equitable research partnerships and innovation.
Key topics
- Global health research
- Health innovation
- Research capacity
- Equitable access
- International partnerships
⇒ Genomics and Precision Medicine
Advances in genomics are opening new opportunities for disease prevention, diagnosis and personalised healthcare across Africa.
Key topics
- Genomics
- Precision medicine
- Diagnostics
- Biomedical research
- Health innovation
9:00 PM – 13:00 PM
PARALLEL 2 | Science Diplomacy, Policy and Research Capacity
⇒ Science Diplomacy and Africa–Europe Cooperation
Scientific collaboration is strengthening partnerships between Africa and Europe to address common global challenges. This session explores opportunities for research cooperation, innovation and joint investment.
Key topics
- Africa–Europe cooperation
- Science diplomacy
- International partnerships
- Innovation ecosystems
- Joint research programmes
⇒ Research Infrastructure and Capacity Building
Modern research infrastructure and skilled scientific communities are fundamental to Africa’s scientific competitiveness and innovation capacity.
Key topics
- Research infrastructure
- Capacity building
- Scientific excellence
- International collaboration
- Research investment
⇒ Public Policy, Governance and Evidence-Based Decision-Making
Scientific evidence plays a critical role in shaping effective public policy and governance. This session examines how governments can strengthen evidence-informed decision-making through research and data.
Key topics
- Science advice
- Evidence-informed policymaking
- Governance
- Research and policy
- Public institutions
13:00 PM – 14:00 PM
Lunch break
14:00 PM – 17:00 PM
PARALLEL 1 │ Indigenous Knowledge, Talent and Skills
⇒ Indigenous Knowledge and Community-Based Solutions
Traditional knowledge and local innovation provide valuable insights for addressing environmental and development challenges. This session explores how indigenous knowledge complements scientific research to support sustainable and locally led solutions.
Key topics
- Indigenous knowledge
- Community innovation
- Climate adaptation
- Sustainable development
- Cultural heritage
⇒ Talent, Skills and Research Mobility
Developing Africa’s next generation of scientists is essential for long-term prosperity. This session explores strategies for strengthening education, researcher mobility and scientific capacity.
Key topics
- Scientific careers
- Skills development
- Higher education
- Research mobility
- Capacity building
14:00 PM – 17:00 PM
PARALLEL 1 │Partnerships and Research Coordination
⇒ Kenya Optical Telescope Initiative
Large-scale scientific infrastructure creates new opportunities for research, education and international collaboration. This session explores the role of astronomy and space science in advancing scientific excellence across Africa.
Key topics
- Astronomy and space science
- Scientific infrastructure
- International collaboration
- Capacity building
- STEM education
⇒ Partnerships for the Sustainable Development Goals
Strong international partnerships are essential for accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. This session explores collaborative models that connect research, policy and investment.
Key topics
- SDG partnerships
- International collaboration
- Science diplomacy
- Research cooperation
- Sustainable development