SciDev.Net

With higher education returning to the aid agenda, SciDev.Net examines the successes, challenges and lessons to be learnt.

An evaluation of Dutch-funded research programmes in developing countries raises questions about the concept of local "ownership".

Universities in developing countries should ditch the 'ivory tower' legacy of colonialism and enhance their links with the world outside.

Disagreement on how to create collaborative centres of excellence in Africa could weaken the continent's efforts for scientific revival.

Building an effective and accountable way to fund science and technology across Africa is a major challenge facing the region’s leaders and scientific communities. You are invited to join the debate.

A number of key ideas have emerged from recent debates about Africa's needs for capacity in science and technology. Each should be kept in mind when implementing the conclusions of the G8 summit.

Few doubt that, as the Commission for Africa has emphasised, stronger universities are needed across the African continent. The challenge is achieve this in an effective and sustainable way.

As aid organisations around the world increase their emphasis on science and technology , the US Agency for International Development should take steps in the same direction.

Donors should take an 'innovation' rather than a 'research' approach to designing scientific and technological aid programmes.