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UCT hosts Heads of Missions breakfast on science, climate and diplomacy
17 February 2026 | Video Production Ruairi Abrahams, Quickclick Productions and Nomfundo Xolo Photo Je’nine MayThe University of Cape Town (UCT) hosted the Vice-Chancellor’s Heads of Missions Breakfast as part of efforts to strengthen relationships with diplomatic missions and position the institution as a strategic partner in international collaboration.
The high-level engagement, themed “The Future of Education, Research, Science, Technology and Innovation: Building Bridges for Global Progress”, brought together senior diplomats and academic leaders to reflect on global challenges, opportunities for research partnerships, and support for international students. The conversation also foregrounded climate change, science diplomacy and the growing importance of locally grounded yet globally relevant research.
The programme featured a panel discussion introduced by Professor Lopes, with contributions from Commissioner of Canada, James Christoff, Delegation of the European Union to SA, Sandra Kramer; Ambassador of Sweden, Anna Karin Eneström; Ambassador of Brazil Benedicto Fonseca Filho; UCT’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Transformation, Student Affairs and Social Responsiveness, Prof Elelwani Ramugondo; and interim Director: UCT International Office, Prof Danie Visser.
During the discussion, speakers emphasised the role of universities in shaping evidence-based policy, advancing innovation and fostering cross-border knowledge exchange.
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