Rwanda Launches Science Diplomacy Center for African Advancement



Rwanda has made a groundbreaking move in promoting scientific collaboration across Africa with the inauguration of the Science Diplomacy Center for Africa. This innovative hub, designed to foster cooperation among scientists, diplomats, policymakers, tech entrepreneurs, and multinational corporations, marks a strategic step towards advancing collaborative research and technological development initiatives across the continent.

Led by Alexis Roig, CEO of SciTech DiploHub, the launch underscores the Center's pivotal role in strengthening international collaboration within Africa's burgeoning scientific and technological landscape. With an initial investment exceeding 3 million euros, the initiative demonstrates a collective commitment from stakeholders to drive innovation and progress across Africa.

Supported by a vast network of partners, including municipal governments, governmental agencies, and academic institutions, the Science Diplomacy Center for Africa aims to be a nexus for advancing science policy strategies and fostering innovative solutions to regional challenges. Over the next three years, it aims to train thousands of African professionals in science and technology diplomacy while supporting the development of science policy strategies for national and local governments.

The selection of Kigali as the Center's location underscores the city's status as Africa's primary technological hub and its dedication to fostering collaboration in science and technology. This launch aligns with Rwanda's growing reputation as a leader in innovation and development on the continent, solidifying its role as a hub for scientific advancement.

Gaspard Twagirayezu, Minister of Education of Rwanda, highlighted the importance of global collaboration in scientific advice, stressing the role of initiatives like the Science Diplomacy Center in addressing current and future challenges. By promoting collaboration that transcends borders and disciplines, the Center aims to facilitate meaningful contributions to Africa's scientific leadership on a global scale.

The establishment of the Science Diplomacy Center for Africa marks a significant milestone in scientific cooperation, representing the largest-ever investment in scientific collaboration with Africa by a Europe-based organization. As Africa continues to emerge as a key player in the global scientific community, initiatives like this will be instrumental in driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and addressing pressing challenges facing the continent and the world.

 

Article by RB Correspodent

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https://moderndiplomacy.eu/2024/05/08/kigali-launches-a-research-center-in-african-science-diplomacy/

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