DST has actively and strategically established close STI co-operation with several international and African countries. The recent achievements include: . Winning the bid to host the new regional New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) water initiative; . DST leveraged R868 million through official donor assistance; . South Africa was awarded the hosting of the 2015 World Science Forum; and . Dr Shisana of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) was elected as President of the International Social Science Council.