Nairobi: The Government of Kenya recognises the vital role of science and research in sound policy development and addressing both current and emerging societal challenges. Principal Secretary for the State Department of Science, Research, and Innovation, Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak, highlighted this during a capacity-building workshop for Young Scientists in Africa held in Nairobi.
According to Kenya News Agency, the workshop hosted 28 researchers from 16 African countries, focusing on fostering cooperation, supporting women in science, and aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals and Africa Agenda 2063. The Seed Grant for New African Principal Investigators initiative is vital in building local scientific capacity to tackle challenges such as climate change, public health, food security, and sustainable development.
Prof. Shaukat mentioned that the programme supports early-career researchers through research grants, mobility, and practical training, emphasizing innovation, industry collaboration, and soft skills development. He encouraged participants to engage in impactful, policy-relevant research and promote brain circulation to minimize brain drain, advocating for future capacity building in science diplomacy across Africa.
The event was supported by UNESCO-TWAS, the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), and other partners, aiming to invest in Africa's scientific future. Since its inception in 2021, the TWAS programme has supported nearly 100 early-career scientists. The recent workshop brought together researchers from various African countries, including seven from Kenya.
Prof. Shaukat urged scientists from different disciplines to address humanity's complex challenges, aligning efforts with the UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and Africa's Agenda 2063. The training is expected to foster curiosity and innovation, creating changemakers who will positively impact institutions, countries, and the world.
He posed a critical question: "Science, research, and innovation are what we need today to address the many societal challenges we face. More importantly, how can science, research, and innovation inform policy?" Prof. Shaukat encouraged young scientists to engage with African speakers to build partnerships and networks to tackle global challenges.
The principal secretary expressed gratitude to the conveners and the UNESCO family for their resources, time, and vision, underscoring the importance of continued support for science as a key driver of sustainable development.