Science, Technology and Innovation in Africa

Moderator: Calestous Juma, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Visiting Professor, Department of Urban Studies and Planning, MIT; Professor of the Practice of International Development and Faculty Chair of the Innovation and Economic Development Program at Harvard Kennedy School

In June 2014 African heads of state and government adopted a 10-year Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA-2024). The strategy is part of the long-term Agenda 2063 which outlines the need to "consolidate African initiatives and strategies on accelerated human capital development, science and technology and innovation." More specifically, it calls on Africa to "lead the new industrial revolution by building a skilled workforce, capitalizing on the digital revolution and global knowledge. This will contribute to rapid diversification of sources of growth, sustain current economic performance and lift large sections out of poverty and create a powerful middle class." In pursuing this vision, the African Union emphasizes the importance of "building our universities as centers of excellence." As part of its efforts to implement STISA-2024, African countries are exploring a variety of partnerships with leading science and technology universities around the world. The aim of the symposium is to explore areas of mutual cooperation between MIT and Africans countries in areas of science, technology and innovation. The event will allow MIT to learn more about emerging trends in Africa and for Africa to familiarize itself with activities and MIT. The event will bring together high-ranking officials from government, industry and academia to MIT for activities that include:

a) Meeting with the senior leadership of MIT and faculty to learn about the Institute's activities;b) Interacting with students and fellows to gain an understanding of their activities; andc) Participation in a symposium to help raise awareness on the potential for cooperation.The event is organized by the Center for International Studies and the Department of Urban Studies and Planning and in cooperation with the MIT-Africa Program.The event is convened by MIT in partnership with the African Union's NEPAD Agency.Starr Forums are free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.