SciDev.Net

Neglect of science and technology in African universities has been compounded by a failure to focus research on the continent's needs, says Mammo Muchie.

Scientists, not government, should lead efforts to explain the benefits and risks of modern technology, says Li Daguang.

To stem the spread of obesity, we must study the web of commercial interests and strategies driving it, says Jonathan Wells.

A regional strategy and a focus on capacity building would strengthen Gulf investments in S&T, say Wael K. Al-Delaimy and Hilal A. Lashuel.

Kenya should establish a nanotechnology curriculum to get ahead of the game, say Macharia Waruingi and Jean Njoroge.

Calestous Juma argues that G8 countries should support provision of cheap, fast Internet access in Africa — particularly to universities.

South Africa's rating system for researchers belongs to the past, but its administrators are reluctant to change, says Michael Cherry.

Uganda's enforcement of science education to boost industrialisation has failed for a number of reasons, writes Deo T. Kabwende.

Medical graduates from poor nations should be free to leave for jobs abroad — and return with new skills, argue Zarmeneh Aly and Fawad Taj.

There is no need for labs to poach researchers from developing countries —  let them return home but maintain collaboration, argues John Kirkland.

Africa should invest in generating software content that encourages children to engage with technology, writes Calestous Juma.

Science and innovation in the countries of the Organization of the Islamic Conference are woefully inadequate, but the tide can be turned, says Mohamed H.A. Hassan.

For developing country universities to be 'world-class' they must be forward-looking and encourage an open environment, says Pervez Hoodbhoy.

Engineers must be included in development efforts to help promote economic growth in Africa, argues Calestous Juma.

Increased funding will only improve Indian science if the country's scientific infrastructure is strengthened, argues U.C. Lavania.

Wole Soboyejo argues that Africa needs a network of world-class science and technology research institutes to stimulate social and economic development.

To fight poverty and participate in a technological future, Ghana must start instilling scientific values throughout its culture, says George Essegbey.

Jorge Werthein says that teaching science from the primary school years would be a big advantage for Latin American countries.

Africa must strengthen engineering education and invest in infrastructure to boost economic growth, says Calestous Juma.

Melissa Leach and Ian Scoones argue that enhanced citizen engagement is essential in making technology work for the poor.