Dunedin lands History of Science and Technology Congress

Dunedin, New Zealand has won the right to host the 27th International Congress of History of Science and Technology in 2025. The Congress, which takes place every four years, has never been held in the South Pacific and is the largest conference for the study of history of science, technology and medicine. The event will welcome up to around 900 specialist delegates to Dunedin, bringing an estimated economic impact of $2m (US$ 1,375m). The conference bid was led by host venue the University of Otago, with support from Tourism New Zealand and Enterprise Dunedin. Hugh Slotten, media, film and communication associate professor at the University of Otago, said: “This win is very important for the international reputation of the university and Dunedin. It highlights a particular strength of the university, not only in the Health Sciences and the Sciences but also in areas of research and teaching that connect the Humanities with the Sciences and the Health Sciences. Science Communication and Bioethics also have world-class reputations here. This event provides a platform for the presentation of research in the field and for facilitating international exchanges and understanding.” Bjoern Spretizer, Tourism New Zealand general manager of domestic and business events, added: “Events like this are incredibly important. They put New Zealand’s expertise on the world stage and help us secure a future pipeline of high-value visitors that will enrich New Zealand’s specialist knowledge and economy.”