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.

Africa needs a Green Revolution, including local research into genetically engineered crops for small farmers, says Robert Paarlberg.

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

Public-private partnership organisations have failed to include African researchers on an equal basis, say T. J. Tucker and M. W. Makgoba.

African malaria research networks have helped scientists combat the disease, but they need more stable support and longer-term funding, says Thomas Egwang.

Thousands of traditional crop species could help break dependence on a few global food crops, and offer valuable environmental services, says Monty Jones.

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

Science and technology are the keys to bringing Africa closer together, says Mohamed H. A. Hassan.

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

Africa must nurture its existing scientific institutes rather than continue to churn out new centres of excellence, argues Narciso Matos.

African centres of excellence will concentrate development in just a few countries, condemning the rest of the continent to the status quo, says Mwananyanda Mbikusita Lewanika.

South Africa's best university-industry research networks support industry while maintaining their academic integrity. Other countries can learn from their experience, says Glenda Kruss.

R&D is not a magic wand to boost economic growth, argues Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, and focusing on it can crowd out other key activities.

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

Last month, SciDev.Net launched a discussion group to ensure the views of African scientists, policymakers, communicators, funders and investors are heard in the run-up to the African Union summit.

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

David King argues Africa must drive the science and technology initiatives that pave its way to development.

To vanquish poverty, Africa needs a new cadre of policy researchers with expertise in the role of science and technology in development, argues Osita Ogbu.

Next year's African Union summit on science and technology is a real opportunity, says Alex Tindimubona, but leaders must debate openly and listen to the research community.

Nigeria's plans to use oil revenues to fund an independent science foundation could prove a boon for all Africa, says a Nature editorial.