South Africa
The Leopoldina works closely with the South African Academy of Sciences (ASSAf). Together they promote scientific exchange, organise symposia and workshops and participate in international networks.
Last edited: 04. December 2025
Faculty of Science, University of Pretoria, Gauteng Province, South Africa
South Africa is one of the largest scientific nations in Africa and therefore a key cooperation partner for the Leopoldina and German science. ASSAf plays an important role in the South African science system, and also for the African continent through its involvement in regional academy networks.
The cooperation between Leopoldina and ASSAf was formalised in the "German-South African Year of Science 2012/2013" with a Memorandum of Understanding signed in Pretoria; this was renewed in 2018 and 2023.
Both academies regularly organise symposia and workshops on current topics in various fields, including health, the environment and sustainability. The events involve other African and international partners, such as from Ethiopia, Uganda, Senegal, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), China and India.
Leopoldina and ASSAf also work closely together on global issues in networks such as the InterAcademy Partnership (IAP) and in the context of G20 policy advice.
Further information
Kontakt Dr. Thomas Plötze
