SciDev.Net

Lebanon's parliament has endorsed a plan to reform science and technology policy with a focus on human resource development and capacity building.

An Islamic Network for Women Scientists has been established to encourage women scientists to network more efficiently at the national level.

The United Arab Emirates has opened a new academy to tackle water shortages and facilitate training in water resources management.

Member states of the Arab League have approved a ten-year strategy aiming to boost higher education and scientific research.

The Organization of the Islamic Conference has approved several resolutions to strengthen innovation and research in the Islamic world.

The United Arab Emirates are investing US$15 billion in an alternative energy and clean energy initiative.

The Islamic Development Bank has announced a US$34.4 million project that aims to train world-class scientists and promote R&D.

The Qatar Foundation has unveiled the recipients of its US$25 million research awards.

Malaysia is boosting its R&D budget, and offering 80 per cent royalties for successfully commercialised work.

Eleven Nobel laureates will take part in a programme at King Saud University to provide support for science and technology.

The Organization of the Islamic Conference needs to accelerate its implementation of its ten-year science plan, say experts.

Jordan has announced a strategy to integrate nuclear power into its energy production and reduce the financial burden of fossil fuel.

Oman and the United Arab Emirates have set up venture capital funds for investment in science and technology innovation.

Algeria and the United States will cooperate in science and technology over the next five years in a range of disciplines.

The United Arab Emirates' new strategic science plan aims to strengthen science education and research and development in the country.

Iran and Syria plan to build a joint university in Syria, and will work together on biotechnology and agricultural research projects.

Egypt's president has announced the creation of a new council and development fund to streamline management and funding of S&T.

A raft of reforms is set to bring Egyptian science into the mainstream, overriding problems of ineffective funding and bloated bureaucracy.

Saudi Arabia will allow its expatriate researchers to apply for Saudi citizenship, in a bid to boost its scientific and medical workforce.

Islamic states have agreed to donate US$370 million to Niger over the next five years to combat desertification and improve food security.