Modikoe Patjane

International Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Development Partnerships Specialist | Futurist | Entrepreneur | Science & Economic Diplomacy An international Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) development partnerships professional with over 22 years of experience in public and private sector leadership, international cooperation and innovation ecosystem development. Currently serves as Acting Director: Development Partnerships at South Africa’s Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), leading strategic partnerships, international resource mobilisation and the development and oversight of programmes that strengthen the National System of Innovation and advance Africa’s development priorities. His portfolio includes the management of a €20 million EU-supported programme, €20 million German (KfW/GIZ) supported vaccine and biopharmaceutical manufacturing, the R300 million Artificial Intelligence (AI) Skills Development Programme and high-profile bilateral, multilateral and triangular cooperation initiatives with partners including Japan (JICA SATREPS), France (FSAGRI), the United Kingdom (FCDO), the USA (USAID and Wadhwani Foundation), Finland and China. Work spans vaccine and biomanufacturing, climate and green economy, circular economy, water and energy security (hydrogen), agricultural innovation, entrepreneurship, research and development, and technology commercialisation. Experience includes managing complex stakeholder partnerships across government, academia, science councils, industry, municipalities and development partners, while advancing inclusive participation by women, youth, persons with disabilities, HDIs, SMEs, start-ups, grassroots innovators, such as LGBTIQ, Khoisan, and traditional knowledge holders. He also brings entrepreneurial experience in innovative property investment (tourism sector)and development. He holds a Master’s degree in Public and Development Management, incorporating international development, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics and Business Management.