On November 21, L.I.S.T.E.N Science Space, an interactive hub to explore science beyond borders jointly built by the China Science and Technology Museum and the Sci-Bono Discovery Center of South Africa, opened to the public, marking new progress in sci-tech cooperation between China and South Africa.

More than 100 representatives from the scientific and academic circles as well as students from South Africa attended the launching ceremony.

China and South Africa, both early members of BRICS, have forged a strong and profound friendship. During the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation last year, the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) and South Africa's Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to deepen bilateral cooperation in such areas as public participation in science and technology, sci-tech and cultural exchanges, mutual recognition of engineers, engineering and mathematics education, and women's participation in science and technology.

In March 2025, a delegation from CAST visited the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre and both organizations signed an MoU. The interactive hub is a significant step to implement this agreement.

With an area of approximately 200 square meters, the hub is located in the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, integrating scientific exhibitions, interactive experiences, and cultural exchanges. It is not merely a simple addition to the existing scientific education infrastructure of China and South Africa but an important practice for the two countries to jointly promote innovative development of science education.

Chen Jingquan, minister counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in South Africa, said scientific popularization and participation are the key ways to achieve sci-tech equality. Everyone has the right to access, use and enjoy scientific achievements. The mission of science diplomacy is to transform innovative achievements into the common wealth of all humanity and make them a driving force for sustainable development. 

The opening coincided with South Africa hosting the G20 Leaders' Summit. The hub, integrating the wisdom of China and South Africa, is a demonstration project for friendly cooperation between China and Africa, and showcased the achievements of scientific and cultural exchanges to the guests from various countries attending the summit.

In the future, both countries will use the platform to expand their areas of cooperation. Through joint research on educational content, establishing digital resource libraries, and personnel exchanges, they will add momentum to the China-Africa friendship and promote mutual understanding among the people.