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World's leading researchers, policymakers to meet in Kigali

Xinhua, November 12, 2016 Adjust font size:

About 300 participants from over 50 nations are expected to attend the 27th meeting of The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) which will open in Kigali on Saturday.

The meeting to run from November 12 to 17 is organized by the Rwandan government in partnership with TWAS.

Participants will include science ministers and other high-level policymakers, researchers, and leaders of science associations, funding agencies and non-governmental organizations from across the globe.

In a Friday statement ahead of the opening, Rwanda's Minister of Education, Papias Musafiri Malimba, said that Rwanda's collaboration with TWAS presents great opportunities to strengthen the country's research capacity.

This, he said, will help the country stay in touch with all the current global developments in support of the African continent's needs for innovation, creativity and youth employment.

"Developing our capacity in Science, Technology and Research will help us strengthen many sectors, including health, agriculture, trade and industry, infrastructure, environment, and ICT, all of which are key sectors in our development," the minister said.

TWAS President Bai Chunli commended Rwanda's efforts in pursuing development through science, engineering and education.

"Rwanda embodies the values of TWAS," said Bai, pointing at a clear commitment to invest in science for sustainable development and economic growth.

"That creates a natural partnership between Rwanda and TWAS, with significant potential benefits. This meeting presents an opportunity to deepen the bonds and to explore future cooperation," Bai said.

The meeting will include symposia and lectures on chemistry, global epidemics, and the role of social sciences in achieving a more just world.

A symposium on astronomy will feature a presentation on the Square Kilometre Array, the world's largest radio telescope, being planned for South Africa and Australia.

Rwanda will use the occasion to showcase achievements registered over the last ten years in promoting science, technology, research and innovation, which has positively impacted the lives of millions of Rwandans, according to officials.

During the same meeting, TWAS-Lenovo Prize, one of the world's most prestigious honors for science in the developing world, will be announced as well as other TWAS honors.

In addition, the Academy will announce newly elected Fellows and Young Affiliates.

Founded in 1983 by a group of scientists from the developing world, TWAS supports sustainable prosperity through research, education, policy and diplomacy.

It has nearly 1,200 members -- including 15 Nobel Prize laureates. Endit