AU asked to lead the continent in science development

By Duncan Mboyah

Heads of states have been asked to establish a committee of Presidents to continuously help champion science and technology development in the continent.

In a recommendation to the all the heads of state, the Bureau of the African Ministerial Council on Science and Technology (AMCOST) suggested that the move stands to benefit the continent given that science and technology development has not been taken seriously as is the case in other continents.

AMCOST members also directed NEPAD Office of Science and Technology to design a repackaged Consolidated Plan of Action to demonstrate how investments in science, technology and innovation will enable African countries to achieve sustainable development and economic growth.

The meeting that was held at Senegal was attended by representatives from Senegal, South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, Congo Brazzaville, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe and representatives of the AU Commission and NEPAD.

It was also agreed that the AU Commission, Bureau of AMCOST and NEPAD Office of Science and Technology shall establish common missions and a coordinated approach to mobilize funds from African and international sources.

Members present also called for more emphasis on measures for the strengthening south – south cooperation in order to promote exchange of technical expertise.

The meeting endorsed the development and finalization of an agreement between the NEPAD Office of Science and Technology and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to establish a transparent and accountable mechanism for managing financial resources and establish cooperation with UNDP on specific programme areas.