Science academies from around the world, collectively known as the G-Science Academies, on Friday released three joint statements calling for action on three global challenges.

The Academy of Science of South Africa was one of 14 signatories to release the joint statements, which would be submitted to the G7 Summit taking place at Ise-Shima, Japan, in June.

The topics that were addressed included the need to understand, protect and develop global brain resources; the need to strengthen disaster resilience, as it is essential to sustainable development; and the need to nurture future scientists.

Highlighting the human brain as civilisation’s most precious resource, the first statement noted that investing in brain science was an investment in the future of society, and that nations should cooperate to understand, protect and foster the improved development of the brain.

To cultivate global brain resources, the G-Science Academies proposed objectives, that would be pursued in parallel, which would benefit society through strategic support for neuroscience.

These objectives included supporting fundamental research with international collaboration and establishing global programmes for the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of brain disorders.

They also included promoting theoretical modelling of the brain and the development of brain-based artificial intelligence, as well as the integration of neuroscience with social and behavioural sciences to improve education and life management as essential components of a “brain-aware” society.

The second statement, which highlighted the need to strengthen disaster resilience, noted that losses owing to disasters were increasing in both developed and developing countries.

Human factors, compounded by increased extreme events, aggravated the negative consequences of hazards.

The final statement highlighted present-day society’s reliance on science-based discovery, technology and policies and cited the nurturing of future scientists as important for the development of society and connecting scientists and society. It also stated that creating a diverse global workforce needed to be promoted.

The G-Science Academies also recommended the promotion of science education for necessary capacities, adding that it was also important to support young scientists to help the develop a career in broader sectors.

The academies also recommended the implementation of scientists’ assessments, based on quality and diverse activities, and prioritising science communication to the public.

The statements also recommended that member countries ensure access to academic literatures and information, improve the working conditions of women and minority groups for career development, and develop science capacity and mutual mobility through facilitating collaboration between developed and developing countries.