The World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) Open Science Conference was a once-in-a-decade opportunity to jointly explore the transformative actions urgently needed to ensure a sustainable future. Held in Kigali, Rwanda, it showcased advances in climate science, helped identify gaps and opportunities, and provided a forum for communities to develop future activities jointly. Scientists, practitioners, politicians, policymakers, intergovernmental agencies and NGOs showcased their work, learned from each other, and explored new ways to work together.
The five-day conference attracted over 1400 participants, online and onsite. Several side events were held during the conference, including many Learning Labs that provided further opportunities for capacity development. Additionally, early and mid-career researchers (EMCR) had an exclusive symposium hosted by the African Institute for Mathematical Science in Rwanda (AIMS), spread over two days to discuss a path forward for an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and sustainable future for the planet.
The conference linked strongly to APN’s first four Goals (Research, Capacity Development, Science-Policy Interactions, and Community Engagement). The grant from APN focussed on Asia-Pacific-based early career professionals in APN member countries in the region. Fourteen early career scientists were supported (one had to pull out because of unforeseen circumstances), all of whom found it an extremely useful experience, as seen from their testimonials.