Rio+20 must launch SDGs to guide countries through complex development challenges, argues Colombian ministry official Paula Caballero Gómez.

Next month's meeting in Brazil needs send the right signals to encourage progress on sustainability, says ODI's Claire Melamed.

Technological innovation can't be imposed on poor people — they must be engaged to select ideas that suit their lives, writes Lawrence Gudza.

Current models of innovation ignore small-scale technology — institutions must ensure it's a key part of the agenda, says Tony Marjoram.

New models of intellectual property rights are needed to protect — and promote — local knowledge and innovations, says Anil Gupta.

Stunning fundraising success at Stellenbosch University is a model for others in Africa, but leadership is crucial, says Linda Nordling.

A culture of favouring science over technology comes at the expense of both technologists and research outputs, writes engineer Huafeng Wang.

Countries in the region need an organised, concerted effort to strengthen scientific input into decision-making, urges Crispin Maslog.

World leaders must promote effective land use methods to mitigate drought, says Luc Gnacadja of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification.

India's scientific research is flagging — its revival will depend on changes in leadership and culture, says Gautam R. Desiraju.

Africa must use this week's science forum to adapt its innovation initiatives to fit a changing world, argues Linda Nordling.

There is a pressing need for Africa to bolster its pharmaceuticals industry, and that requires the right policy framework, argues Priya Shetty.

Africa needs to up its game in malaria research, but by doing what it does best, not by replicating Western research, says Linda Nordling.

India should establish a Young Academy to promote research-based solutions to development challenges, says Raghunath Mashelkar.

Pakistan’s universities need to have academic freedom to excel, rather than churn out fake research papers, says Pervez Hoodbhoy.

R&D funds levied on business must build organisations that offer short-term benefits through a clear strategy, says Athar Osama.

South Sudan's prosperity depends on more public universities serving more students — and focussing on S&T, not humanities, says John A. Akec.

Deep-rooted philosophies discourage data sharing and specialised research services, hampering research quality, says Peng Gong.

English may be the language of science, but students learn better and contribute more when taught in their local tongue, says Giovanni Tapang.

Some Muslim countries' powerful financial incentives to make quick progress in research could backfire, cautions Athar Osama.