The DataScientia Event 2026: Strengthening Global Collaborations – South Africa Edition

DataScientia will host its 2026 annual workshop at Durban University of Technology in Durban, bringing together partner universities from across Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America, along with new collaborators from South Africa.

DataScientia aims to become a citizen science community of practice devoted to person-centric general AI (PCAGI). Rather than treating individuals as passive data sources, we focus on empowering people with tools and technologies to understand, manage, and use their data—supporting the development of AI systems that are transparent, inclusive, and beneficial to society.

Our long-term vision is to build a fully operational global citizen science ecosystem where partners collaboratively:

Design, offer, and localize MOOCs
Collect and analyze personal data through shared infrastructures such as iLog
Contribute linguistic and cultural resources to improve AI inclusivity
Disseminate knowledge through open platforms, media, and community initiatives

Event Overview

The 2026 event will follow a multi-day format combining scientific exchange, collaboration planning, and community-building activities.

Program Outline:

July 22 – DataScientia Workshop on “Sovereign AI for ALL”
The goal of this workshop is to provide a perspective on how it is possible to develop a sovereign AI where every culture can develop and maintain, in time, its own data and models, in full sovereignty. The event will feature various topics covering interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary aspects relating to its main topic.
July 23 (morning) – Workshop on “Sovereign AI for Africa”
Building upon the presentations of the previous day, this round table will discuss issues, current attempts, and steps to be taken toward making Africa a leader in sovereign AI, as a joint effort within and outside Africa
July 23 (afternoon), 24 – The “DataScientia Initiative” workshop
This will be a hands-on practical workshop where, starting from a critical analysis of the work done so far, participants will actively engage into concrete steps whose goal will be their direct involvement, and of their reference institutions in the DataScientia initiative

24 July 2026 – Social Dinner
A social gathering for all participants (venue to be confirmed), fostering informal exchange and strengthening partnerships.

25 July 2026 – Cultural Experience Tours
A dedicated cultural and networking experience, offering participants the opportunity to explore the natural environment of South Africa together. Please refer to the travel & tours section for more information about available options and activities.

Focus of the 2026 Edition

Building on previous workshops, the 2026 edition will emphasize:

Advancing person-centric AI through real-world pilot projects
Strengthening global collaboration and exploring potential partnership opportunities with new South African universities participating.
Scaling citizen science practices across education, language, and personal data
Exploring LLMs and AI applications in community-driven contexts

Participants will be encouraged not only to share insights but also to actively contribute to shaping and leading DataScientia initiatives in their local ecosystems.

Program Details

The full program and detailed schedule will be announced soon.

Practical information

Event Location

The event will take place at the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics at the the Durban University of Technology (DUT) in Durban, South Africa.

Address: 7, Ritson road, Musgrave, Berea 4001, Durban, South Africa

Dates

22-25 July 2026

Format

hybrid ( In-person & Online )

Participation Cost

Participation to the event is free of charge.

✦ How to Join Online?

Online Meeting Link: Meeting link will be published on this page right before the event and will also be shared through email with event participant.

✦ Registration (for physical attendees):

Registration details for physical attendees and Gala Dinner attendees (for catering purpose) will be provided in due course.

✦ Accommodation Options:

Accommodation places with links and contact details will be provided in due course.

✦ Additional Information:

Participants wishing to join physically at Durban, South Africa need to notify the local organizing committee for logistics purposes. Please refer to the contact details in the end of the page.

About the host institution

The Faculty of Accounting and Informatics at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) is a forward-looking academic faculty dedicated to excellence in accounting, information technology, and business informatics education.

The faculty offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs that integrate theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world application. Key disciplines include accounting, auditing, taxation, information systems, and computer science, with a strong emphasis on digital transformation and data-driven innovation.

Through close collaboration with industry partners and a commitment to applied research, the faculty contributes to addressing regional and global challenges—particularly in areas such as data analytics, information management, and emerging technologies.

As part of DUT’s mission, the faculty promotes innovation, entrepreneurship, and community engagement, making it an ideal host for international initiatives such as the DataScientia Event 2026, which aligns with its focus on advancing data science, artificial intelligence, and global collaboration.

Discover Durban – Why Attend in Person?

“I believe that South Africa is the most beautiful place on earth…” — Nelson Mandela

South Africa’s beauty is unmatched, from magnificent mountains to amazing coastlines, vibrant communities, and a rich tapestry of cultures. Durban offer stunning sandy beaches perfect for year-round swimming and surfing, lush parks like the renowned Durban Botanic Gardens, and a welcoming atmosphere.

For an immersive local experience, Kimburi Tours offers half-day city tours, full-day adventures, and multi-day trips exploring the KwaZulu-Natal region’s wildlife and culture.

Organising Committee

Event Sponsors

Disclaimer

We strongly advise participants to personally check entry and visa requirements before making travel arrangements, as there might be country-specific conditions you are not aware of. Please contact the South African embassy/consulate in your home country for the most accurate information.
DataScientia will NOT issue any Letter of Sponsorship or Letter of Guarantee if required by immigration authorities.
DataScientia will not refund participants for cancellations due to visa rejections or inability to enter South Africa.
DataScientia cannot influence the decision of the South African embassy/consulate or appeal on behalf of applicants.
No liability is accepted for any loss, damage, or inconvenience arising from reliance on the information provided.