STI Policy, Advocacy and Diplomacy
KISTEP-ISTIC STI Training Programme for High Level Policy Makers
Launched in 2009, the KISTEP-ISTIC STI Training Programme for High-Level Policymakers is a long-standing collaboration between ISTIC and the Korea Institute of Science & Technology Evaluation and Planning Institute, aimed at strengthening capacity building for senior policymakers.
Programme’s Objectives
Strengthen the capacities of high-level policymakers from developing countries
Share Korea’s experience in science, technology, and innovation policy
Introduce effective Planning, Investment, and Evaluation (P.I.E.) approaches
Support the development of national S&T systems
Provide interactive learning and peer exchange opportunities
Promote dialogue and sharing of best practices among policymakers
Discover the KISTEP–ISTIC
STI Training Programme
2026 Key Figures
16 EDITIONS HELD
250+ PARTICIPANTS TRAINED
71+ COUNTRIES INVOLVED
Background
The partnership began in 2009, when KISTEP and ISTIC signed their first agreement to co-develop and deliver the KISTEP–ISTIC STI Training Programme for High-Level Policymakers. Inspired by the Republic of Korea’s journey, from a recipient of development aid to a globally recognized innovation-driven economy, the initiative highlights the critical role of strategic investments in science and technology. Central to Korea’s transformation was a robust policy system for planning, evaluation, and coordination, with KISTEP playing a pivotal role in its advancement.
In its latest phase, the training integrates contemporary issues such as science diplomacy, emerging technologies, and strategic foresight, further enhancing its relevance and impact. This enduring partnership between KISTEP and ISTIC serves as a model of international cooperation, harnessing Korea’s developmental experience to foster STI leadership and policy excellence across the Global South.
Coordinators
ISTIC under the auspices of UNESCO
The International Science, Technology and Innovation Centre for South-South Cooperation (ISTIC), a center under the auspices of UNESCO, acts as an international platform offering sustainable programmes and services and augmenting sustainable development for South-South Cooperation.
Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP)
KISTEP is a as a government affiliated research institute supporting the full cycle of Korea’s national R&D system, including S&T planning, budget allocation and coordination, and R&D evaluation.
