The BRICS Science Academies Forum 2026 concluded at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad. The participating science academies adopted a consensus statement to strengthen cooperation on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for sustainable development. The joint statement adopted at the meeting will be formally approved within a week and presented at the BRICS Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ministerial meeting scheduled for August 2026.
Organized by the Indian National Science Academy (INSA), this two-day forum was based on the theme “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development and Strengthening Global South Cooperation” It was attended by representatives from eight BRICS member nations—Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Russia, South Africa, and India—and five partner countries: Nigeria, Vietnam, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Malaysia.
Five priority areas for AI collaboration were identified during the discussions: advanced materials and manufacturing, healthcare, climate change, agriculture and food security, and disaster forecasting and management. Representatives also emphasized the need for ethical, transparent, and inclusive AI, enhanced data sharing, capacity building, cybersecurity, and strong scientific partnerships within the Global South.
During the inaugural session, INSA President Professor Shekhar C. Mande emphasized the transformative potential of AI in addressing global challenges. He also stressed that new technologies must be ethical, accessible, and inclusive. The discussions further highlighted the importance of evidence-based policymaking, trustworthy AI systems, and strengthening research partnerships among BRICS nations.
On the final day, experts discussed AI-driven materials discovery and green hydrogen technology. Subsequently, delegates finalized a consensus statement during an open session chaired by Prof. Mande. Addressing the closing ceremony, BRICS Sous-Sherpa Mr. Shambhulingappa Hakki emphasized the pivotal role of science in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He welcomed the forum’s consensus on advancing human-centric and sustainable development and described it as a timely step.
(PIB)
