SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION POLICY INITIATIVE

UNESCO and Science Policy

New scientific paradigms are pushing the frontier in all areas of the natural, social and human sciences. Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) are now universally recognized as the drivers of national economic development, and key contributors to poverty reduction, disease prevention and environmental conservation. Strengthening capacity in science for sustainable development, and harnessing the fruits of scientific discoveries, can only be achieved within a comprehensive framework of science and technology. Countries need to respond with policies, programmes, institutions and partnerships, which maximize their economic opportunities. Governments need to re-evaluate not only where they spend their S&T resources, but also how they can maximize effective spending. The role of UNESCO in STI policy is threefold: a think tank on policy development; a guide for national policy reforms; and a catalyst for regional and international cooperation. UNESCO has a long tradition in assisting Member States in science policy reviews, which dates back to the early 1960s. These efforts culminated in a series of Ministerial meetings in Africa, known as CASTs (Conference of Ministers Responsible for the Application of Science and Technology to Development in Africa), including CASTAFRICA. Subsequently, national authorities have become increasingly aware of the importance of elaborating national policies and strategies in the area of science and technology, as a prerequisite for effective development policies. As a result, many African Member States have sought, and are still seeking, UNESCO's support in formulating National science policies.

UNESCO and the AFRICAN UNION (AU)

The African Union (AU) Heads of State and Governments requested UNESCO's assistance in the implementation of the Consolidated Plan of Action (CPA) for science and technology in Africa (2008-2013). The CPA consists of three inter linked pillars: capacity building, knowledge production and technological innovation. The CPA recognizes that it is vital to institutionalize S&T processes in Africa policy-making where scientists are expected to play an enhanced and visible role. As a response to the AU request, the Executive Board (177 EX/16) and the General Conference (194 member states) of UNESCO (November 2007) approved the UNESCO Plan of Action proposed by the Director General (UNESCO Resolution 21). The governing bodies of UNESCO adopted 3 flagship projects: i) capacity building in science technology and innovation policy; ii) enhancing science and technology education and iii) the African Virtual Campus. The present document focuses on past and current initiatives undertaken by UNESCO, Division for Science Policy and Sustainable Development (SC/PSD), in close cooperation with the Africa Department and the Bureau of Strategic Planning (BSP), in support of the implementation of the CPA on capacity-building in science policy, improving policy conditions and building mechanisms for innovation read more