Commitment to STEM and Scientific Collaboration in Africa
At the closing ceremony of the 2025 Africa Research Initiative for Scientific Excellence (ARISE) High-Level Meeting in Accra, Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. She emphasized the importance of sustainable solutions and deeper collaboration across borders to drive progress on the continent.
The Vice President highlighted the critical role that science, research, and innovation play in shaping national and continental development agendas. Her remarks came during a significant event that brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, including academia, industry, civil society, and policymakers. The meeting aimed to celebrate the achievements made toward realizing Africa’s Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Agenda while also identifying opportunities, priorities, and imperatives for enhanced scientific cooperation.
Organized by the African Academy of Sciences (AAS) in partnership with the Government of Ghana, the African Union (AU), the African Scientific Research, Innovation Council (AU-ASRIC), and Afro-Champions, the conference provided a platform for dialogue and exchange among leaders in science-policy-practice. It served as an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and to chart a course for future advancements.
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang expressed her support for the initiatives taken by the AAS and its partners in organizing such a vital event. She acknowledged the contributions of researchers, policy actors, students, and other participants, stating that their ideas and efforts are essential to the shared mission of transforming Africa through knowledge and innovation.
She echoed the call made by President John Dramani Mahama for institutions, academia, civil society, and industry to invest in and support research as a means of driving sustainable solutions. This sentiment underscores the need for continued investment in scientific endeavors that can address pressing challenges facing the continent.
The ARISE High-Level Meeting also served as a reminder of the importance of international collaboration in advancing scientific research. By fostering partnerships between African nations and global entities, the continent can leverage resources and expertise to achieve common goals. This approach not only strengthens scientific capacity but also enhances the ability to respond to regional and global challenges effectively.
In addition to celebrating progress, the meeting focused on identifying key areas where further action is needed. These include improving access to education, increasing funding for research, and creating policies that support innovation. By addressing these challenges, African countries can build a more resilient and prosperous future.
The Vice President's speech emphasized the need for a collective effort to harness the power of science and technology for the benefit of all. She encouraged stakeholders to continue working together, recognizing that the success of any initiative depends on the participation and commitment of all involved.
Overall, the ARISE High-Level Meeting highlighted the potential of science and innovation to drive Africa’s development. With sustained investment, collaboration, and a shared vision, the continent can overcome existing barriers and unlock new opportunities for growth and prosperity.
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