Africans spur vision of science-led development

A vision of a new age of development in Africa led by science and technology—a vision that is uniquely African—was outlined last week by a small group of African scientists, educators, and analysts who met at a forum in Washington, D.C., sponsored by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). About 100 U.S. and African participants discussed initiatives under way and innovations planned that aim to advance national science and technology policies and higher education reform efforts. The meeting was part of AAAS's Sub-Saharan Africa Program, supported by Carnegie Corp. of New York City. Keynote speaker for the meeting was entomologist Thomas Odhiambo, president and founder of the African Academy of Sciences, based in Nairobi, Kenya. Odhiambo is also the recently retired director of the International Center of Insect Physiology & Ecology in Nairobi. Odhiambo notes that the academy is helping the African National Congress in South Africa ...