International Data week

IDW takes place every two years and is the leading international conference on research data. It is jointly organised by the International Science Council’s Committee on Data (CODATA) and World Data System (WDS), and the Research Data Alliance (RDA). It combines the RDA Plenary Meeting—the biannual meeting of this international member organisation working to develop and support global infrastructure facilitating data sharing and reuse—with SciDataCon, the scientific conference addressing the frontiers of data in research organised by CODATA and WDS.

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, alongside the local organising committee led by the National Integrated Cyberinfrastructure System (NICIS), is delighted to be hosting the conference for the first time in South Africa.

The Cape Town International Conference Centre (CTICC), renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional service, will be our hub for these transformative four days. Here, you will find ample opportunities to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and form lasting professional relationships.

Cape Town, affectionately known as the Mother City, is internationally renowned for its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant coastal lifestyle, and offers the perfect backdrop for the conference.

As we gather in this dynamic city, we aim to foster an environment of learning, collaboration, and inspiration among scientists, scholars, practitioners, and data infrastructure specialists from around the globe. This year’s theme of ‘Open Science and FAIR Data for Global Solutions’ highlights our commitment to the role of accessible, standardised data in driving international progress by fostering collaboration and advancing impactful research.

The program features an array of keynote talks, workshops, and interactive sessions led by eminent, as well as emerging, experts in the field. Delegates will have the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking discussions, gain insights from cutting-edge research, and share their own experiences and innovations in using and sharing research data.

We are excited to offer various social events and excursions that highlight Cape Town’s unique connection to nature and culture. From exploring the summit of iconic Table Mountain and the lush Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden to engaging with the rich history of Robben Island, we encourage delegates to immerse themselves in all that this lively city has to offer.

We’re expecting to host over 800 delegates, which include data scientists, researchers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, policy makers, and data stewards. By partnering with us, you’ll be able to form valuable connections with our attendees through a range of branding and marketing opportunities.

We’d love to have you on board to partner with us for an unforgettable International Data Week!

We look forward to welcoming you,

Dr Happy Sithole
Centre Manager: NICIS