Farming projects must be able to access research at any point along the innovation trajectory, say Rasheed Sulaiman V. and colleagues.

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.

Poverty, governance and population growth — not physical availability of water — are the real challenges for the continent, says Roger Calow.

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

Trade deals are threatening generic drugs — we need new ways to incentivise affordable drug development, says health expert Daniele Dionisio.

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

Improving health for the poor depends on nurturing local innovations — and learning how to deliver them, argue Abdallah Daar and Peter Singer.

Jeremy Rifkin says the developing world could leapfrog into a new energy era by merging communication and renewable energy technologies.

African governments with technology policies that focus only on ICT should rethink their priorities, says Ndubuisi Ekekwe.

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

Rio+20 should set up a scientific cooperation mechanism drawing on capabilities in both North and South, say Gisbert Glaser and Alice Abreu.

Business models that pair up cheap solar technologies with cell-phone services can provide the poor with renewable energy, says Carl Pope.

Angola has the money, connections and political will to be a force in African science. But will it tackle inequality, asks Linda Nordling.

India's IT sector offers solutions for local problems — but entrepreneurs need help getting innovations to market, says Vineeta Dixit.

Pragmatism must trump profit when African leaders commit to a green development agenda, argues Linda Nordling.

Much progress has been made in genomics research, says Stephen Baker, but the impact on public health is limited in the developing world.

Nuclear power is no magic solution, argues Pervez Hoodbhoy — it's not safe, or cheap, and it leads to weapons programmes.

Nuclear power can benefit developing countries but requires long-term planning and an educated workforce, says Michael J. Mangala.