Workshop on systems approaches for STI policy and cross-sector decision-making in Mozambique

The workshop will bring together policymakers, researchers, research managers, innovation actors, and development partners to explore how systems thinking and evidence-informed approaches can support national development priorities. The event forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration between Mozambique and IIASA through SSARMO and to expand the use of systems analysis in policymaking across Sub-Saharan Africa.

IIASA Deputy Director General Karen Lips will open the workshop and deliver a strategic framing session on the role of systems thinking in addressing complex STI policy challenges. Her presentation will examine the importance of cross-sector coherence, evidence-informed decision-making, and collaboration in responding to interconnected development challenges.

IIASA Research Scholar Felicity Addo will lead several interactive sessions throughout the workshop, including activities designed to connect policymakers, researchers, funders, and research managers, as well as practical exercises exploring how systems analysis tools can support forward-looking policy development. Using IIASA's Global Biosphere Management Model (GLOBIOM) as an example, participants will examine how scenario-based analysis can help explore interactions between food systems, land use, trade, emissions, and policy choices.

The program will also feature Professor Kambidima Wotela of the University of the Witwatersrand, who will lead sessions on systems thinking, policy design, and monitoring, evaluation, and learning for systems change. Additional contributions will come from representatives of the Mozambican government, including Mr Teles Huo, National Director of Economic and Development Policies at the Ministry of Planning and Development, Professor Carlos Arnaldo of Eduardo Mondlane University, and Dr Asif Wazir of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). 

Across two days of discussions, practical exercises, and collaborative group work, participants will identify priority policy challenges, explore opportunities for research collaboration, and consider how systems approaches can be embedded within national STI processes. The workshop will conclude with discussions on future engagement through the IIASA–SSARMO partnership, including research collaboration, scientific networks, training opportunities, and capacity-development initiatives.