Mauritius Hosts International Space Symposium Focusing on ‘New Space for Mauritius

The inaugural edition of the International Space Symposium, themed ‘New Space for Mauritius,’ commenced today under the auspices of the Minister of Information Technology, Communication, and Innovation, Mr. Darsanand Balgobin, at Le Méridien Hotel in Pointe aux Piments. This two-day symposium, a collaborative effort between the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC) and the Ministry of Information Technology, Communication, and Innovation, coincides with the World Creativity and Innovation Day, slated for April 21, 2024.

In his keynote address, Minister Balgobin underscored Mauritius’s longstanding commitment to innovation and progress, citing the successful deployment of its inaugural Space Craft, the MIR-SAT1, in 2021. He emphasized that the symposium serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, exploration, and unity, with the overarching goal of charting Mauritius’s course in the realm of space exploration and technology.

Minister Balgobin underlined the profound transformative potential that space technology holds for Mauritius, particularly in light of its classification as a Small Island Developing State (SIDS). He emphasized the critical role of collaborative endeavors involving various stakeholders who have come together to support Mauritius’s aspirations in the realm of space exploration. Stressing the importance of open dialogue, mutual cooperation, and proactive engagement, the Minister reiterated the collective dedication to shaping the agenda for the Mauritius Space Agency, ensuring its alignment with the nation’s developmental objectives and strategic priorities.

Through partnerships and the pooling of expertise, Mauritius aims to capitalize on space technology to address its specific challenges and drive progress. By fostering innovation and attracting investment, the country seeks to position itself as a hub for space-related industries. Minister Balgobin emphasized the importance of responsible and sustainable practices in space exploration, stressing the ethical, environmental, and societal implications of such endeavors.

Additionally, Minister Balgobin highlighted the vast array of benefits and opportunities presented by space technology, emphasizing its pivotal role in fostering innovation, attracting investment, and catalyzing economic growth. He underscored the significance of adopting responsible and sustainable practices in space exploration, emphasizing the need to carefully consider ethical, environmental, and societal implications. By prioritizing these considerations, Mauritius can leverage the transformative potential of space technology while ensuring the long-term sustainability and equitable distribution of its benefits.

Minister Balgobin extended heartfelt appreciation to longstanding partners, including India, Japan, and the UAE, recognizing their pivotal role in propelling Mauritius’s space ambitions forward. He emphasized the significance of international collaboration in facilitating crucial aspects such as technology transfers, training programs, and joint initiatives. These collaborative efforts are instrumental in propelling Mauritius towards the forefront of space technology and exploration, marking a significant stride towards achieving new milestones in this dynamic field.

Professor Theesan Bahorun, Executive Director of the MRIC, outlined the strategic pillars of Mauritius’s Space program, emphasizing awareness-building, capacity building, research and development, leveraging international partnerships, and fostering start-ups in the space sector. Dr. Kaviraj Sharma Sukon, Chairperson of the MRIC, reiterated the importance of utilizing satellite data for various applications, emphasizing the symposium’s role in facilitating knowledge exchange among stakeholders and industry leaders.