Dr. Sylvance Okoth, Executive Secretary, EASTECO; Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona, Executive Secretary, IUCEA, and Prof. Walter O. Oyawa, Director General of the National Commission for Science, Technology & Innovation (NACOSTI) launching the East African Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Policy 2023-2033 & East African Regional Intellectual Property (IP) Policy2023-2033..
The 3rd EAC Regional Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Conference has commenced marking a pivotal moment for advancing col- laborative efforts in STI within the East African Community (EAC).
Hosted jointly by the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) and the Inter-Universi- ty Council for East Africa (IUCEA), the conference aims to foster the exchange of experiences, best practices, and applications of STI outputs. The event, which will continue until Friday, 8 March 2024, gathers various stakeholders regionally and globally to strengthen collaborations, facilitate regional integration, and enhance sustainable development.
Prof. Walter Oyawa, representing Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Education Ezekiel Machogu, inaugurated the conference, emphasizing Kenya’s commitment to expanding education- al opportunities and research initiatives across its 47 counties. Notable dignitaries including Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona, Executive Secretary of IUCEA, and Dr. Sylvance Okoth, Executive Secretary of EASTECO, highlighted the conference’s theme: “Accelerating development and diffusion of Science, Technology and Innovation solutions for a green, inclusive and resilient East Africa.”
Mr. Machogu outlined Kenya’s ambitious plans to allocate 2% of its education budget towards research, with a significant portion earmarked for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVETs) and universi- ties. This commitment underscores Kenya’s dedication to nurturing a knowledge-driven economy and fostering innovation.
Dr. Okoth underscored the significance of scientific exchanges and collaboration, emphasizing the role of the conference in facilitating dialogue and strengthening partnerships. Prof. Banyankimbona emphasized the transformative power of research, development, and innovation (RDI) in addressing collective challenges and improving livelihoods.
A highlight of the conference was the launch of the EASTECO Regional STI Policy and Intellectual Property Policy. These policy frameworks aim to provide a structured approach to harnessing STI for sustainable devel- opment while protecting intellectual property rights across the region.
The conference serves as a conver- gence point for diverse stakeholders in the STI ecosystem, including policymakers, industry leaders, academics, researchers, innovators, students, and development partners. Representatives from EAC Partner States, the African Union, Regional Economic Communities, civil society, business and industry organizations, academic and research institutions, and development partners are actively participating in the event.
In a hybrid format, combining face-to-face interactions and virtual platforms, the conference features high-level policy dialogues, plenary sessions, exhibitions, and a ministerial session. Special sessions tailored to youth engagement in future technologies and innovation, as well as entrepreneurship promotion through education, research, and development, are also scheduled.
The 3rd EAC Regional STI Conference stands as a testament to the region’s commitment to leveraging science, technology, and innovation for sustainable development, economic growth, and shared prosperity. As the conference progresses, it is poised to catalyze transformative initiatives and pave the way for a more vibrant and inclusive East African community.
Source: https://mountkenyatimes.co.ke/mt-kenya-times-epaper-mar-7-2024/