President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged African leaders to harness the potential of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) to drive economic growth across the continent. He made this call during the 15th edition of the African Academy of Science (AAS) Bi-Annual General Assembly and Scientific Conference held in Abuja. The event served as a platform for discussing the crucial role of STI in shaping Africa’s future.
The conference, themed “Empowering and Advancing Africa’s Scientific Enterprise,” attracted over 300 participants from various regions of Africa and beyond. Attendees included scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders who came together to deliberate on the future of science on the continent. The gathering highlighted the collaborative effort needed to advance scientific initiatives.
Represented by Chief Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, President Tinubu emphasized Africa’s significant potential in STI. He pointed out that these fields are essential for enhancing the continent’s development. His remarks underscored the necessity of leveraging scientific advancements to improve the quality of life for all Africans.
In his address, President Tinubu highlighted the transformative power of science, innovation, and technology in various sectors. He specifically mentioned agriculture, industry, and poverty eradication as areas that can benefit significantly from scientific advancements. His call to action was clear: harnessing science can uplift economies and foster societal transformation.
Dr. Natalia Kanem, the Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), stressed the importance of investing in female education. She argued that increasing the number of female scientists in Africa is crucial for the continent’s development. Dr. Kanem’s insights were delivered by Nathaniel Nau, the UNFPA Secretary in Nigeria, who echoed her advocacy for girl child education and healthcare.
Dr. Kanem also highlighted youth employment and entrepreneurship as critical areas requiring investment. She emphasized that these factors are vital for advancing Africa’s scientific community. The need for a holistic approach to education and empowerment was a recurring theme in her address, reflecting the interconnectedness of these issues.
Prof. Lise Korsten, President of the AAS, acknowledged the progress Africa has made in scientific productivity. She noted a remarkable 135% increase in scientific publications from 2014 to 2022. However, she pointed out that despite this growth, Africa’s contributions to global scientific output still account for only 3.6%, indicating room for improvement.
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Prof. Korsten concluded by stressing the need for continued investment and commitment to strengthen Africa’s research and innovation capacity. Her remarks served as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead and the importance of collective action in building a robust scientific enterprise in Africa. The conference ultimately aimed to inspire a renewed focus on science as a driving force for the continent’s future.
