The Fourth Meeting of the IORA Working Group on Science, Technology and Innovation (WGSTI) was held virtually on 6 August 2025, Chaired by South Africa in its capacity as Chair of the Working Group. 

The meeting was attended by representatives from IORA Member States, namely Bangladesh, India, Iran, Madagascar, Mauritius, South Africa, Sri Lanka and Thailand, alongside the IORA Secretariat and the IORA Regional Centre for Science and Technology Transfer (RCSTT). The agenda was adopted following opening remarks by the WGSTI Chair and the IORA Secretariat.

The meeting focused on reviewing the WGSTI Work Plan. Member States considered progress and agreed on updates across short-, medium- and long-term objectives, with emphasis on water and sanitation science and technology, marine science and innovation, capacity building, and alignment with RCSTT activities. Updates were noted on several ongoing and proposed initiatives, including training programmes in marine science, blue schools, medicinal and aromatic plants, and research for climate-resilient and temperature-tolerant species. The meeting also noted progress on partnerships and institutional arrangements, including the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between RCSTT and the Iran National Science Foundation, as well as continued coordination on women in STEM initiatives.

The meeting further agreed on adjustments to the Work Plan, including the removal of withdrawn activities, requests for additional technical clarification on project proposals, and timelines for circulation of Concept Notes and updates by Member States and partners. Emphasis was placed on revitalising the Working Group, strengthening coordination, avoiding duplication and ensuring effective implementation.