Date: Wednesday, 16 September 2026, 3rd Annual Day.
Sponsor: United Nations
Objectives:
The International Day of Science, Technology and Innovation for the South is observed each year to advance the following goals:
- Highlight the critical role of science, technology, and innovation in driving economic growth and sustainable development, and in expediting the comprehensive achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
- Raise awareness of the persistent gaps between developed and developing countries regarding their capabilities, resources, and opportunities to generate and apply new scientific and technological knowledge.
- Encourage greater North-South cooperation and reinforce South-South partnerships, programs, and initiatives to increase developing countries’ access to enhanced technical and scientific resources, facilitating the implementation of innovative projects.
Inception:
The inaugural International Day of Science, Technology and Innovation for the South was marked on September 16, 2024, establishing a tradition of annual observance to promote the advancement and equitable access to science and technology for sustainable progress in developing nations.
History:
On January 9, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly officially declared September 16 as the International Day of Science, Technology and Innovation for the South. This day will now be observed annually, following the adoption of resolution A/RES/78/259.
The resolution highlights the vital role of harnessing scientific and technological progress to drive sustainable development. It emphasizes alignment with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The resolution calls on the international community to cultivate an open, equitable, inclusive, and non-discriminatory environment for scientific and technological growth. It urges support for the nations of the South to enhance and strengthen their national systems for science, technology, and innovation.
Official website:
https://www.un.org/en/observances/science-technology-and-innovation-for-south-day
