The conference aims at providing a forum for discussing the main theme, along the lines of three sub-themes. It should contribute to increasing the capacities of the participants and collect innovative ideas on means and ways to address the challenges for revitalizing S&T research and deployment through effective policy, regulations and strategies.

The main theme is:

Revitalizing Science, Engineering and Technology Research and Deployment for Sustainable Development in Africa

The sub-themes are:

1.        Science, Engineering and Technology R&D and Deployment Strategies: Case studies;

2.        Issues in R&D and Deployment policy and implementation;

3.        Harnessing partnerships for strengthening R&D and Deployment in Africa ; and

4.        Investment in R&D and Deployment in Africa .

Issues to Ponder

While discussing the above-mentioned themes and sub-themes, the conference (through the various papers and presentations) will consider the following questions:

·          What it the current status of SET research, development and development and deployment systems in African universities and research centers?

·          Are prevailing policies, regulations and strategies conducive to vibrant R&D and deployment?

·          What lessons can be drawn from successful R&D and Deployment (R&D&D) cases in Africa ?

·          What role can South-South and North-South partnerships play in revitalizing R&D&D? - Policy implications.

·          What role can African scientists in the Diaspora play?

·          Can African university and research centers design strategies that can make R&D more responsive to priority development needs on the continent?

·          What strategies may be considered to increase investment from the public and private sector for R&D&D in Africa ?

University leaders with experience and/or knowledge of the issues covered in the theme/sub-themes of the conference are invited to submit a 200-250 words abstract to the ANSTI secretariat. Papers should address at one or several of the issues to ponder. African scientists in the diaspora and women in science are encouraged to submit papers.

The abstract should include the title, name of author(s), affiliation, mailing address, e-mail, and fax numbers. For ease and speed of communication, all correspondences between authors and the organizers will be made by e-mail.

Abstracts should be received by the ANSTI Secretariat with copy to the local organizing Committee Please take note of the dates below

• Submission of abstracts.................................30th April 2009
• Notification of abstract acceptance.............30th June 2009
• Submission of final manuscript....................15th August 2009

Please send all the abstracts to Conference@ansti.org