Young scientists call for sustainable development in Africa

Participants at the TWAS-ROSSA Young Scientist’s Conference and 6th General Assembly of the Nigerian Young Academy (NYA) have called for sustainable growth and development in Africa.

The theme of the conference, held in Lagos, is ‘Inclusive growth and sustainable growth and development in Africa: The role of young Academies.’

President of Nigerian Young Academy, Dr. Emmanuel E. O Odjadjare, in his welcome address described the NYA as a unified platform for interaction among brilliant young researchers, Academics and professionals below the age of 45 from various research disciplines in regions of Nigeria.

The young president frowned at the fact that young scientists are often not included over the years in the discourse and design of developmental initiatives mainly in Africa.

He explained that the theme of the conference was inspired by the African Union Agenda 2063, which was tagged during the 50th anniversary of the African union 2013.

Odjadjare asked, “If the young scientists are not conscripted into the implementation of science, technology and innovation growth, how then can long term developmental initiatives succeed? When the supposed drivers of such initiatives have little or no idea of the programs they are expected to drive. It is time for Africa to take her rightful place in the committee of nations but this aspiration might continually remain a mirage until and unless young professionals and intellectuals are included in the discourse towards Africa’s development.”

Lauding the efforts of the NYA in collaboration with the Nigerian Academy of Science, The Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, represented by the Director General (DG)/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Federal Institute of Industrial research, Oshodi (FIIRO), Dr. Gloria Elemo, commended the team for making the programme a success, and promises to use Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) as a strategic tool for inclusive growth in Nigeria extending to Africa.

He said when there is access to new and appropriate technology; there are improvements in standards of living.