African scientists have come together to create a society to improve research standards and boost collaboration in materials science across the continent.

The African Materials Research Society — which was launched last month in Dakar, Senegal — will work closely with governments to develop policy and support for materials research and development.

It also aims to build a network of researchers and will host regular meetings to promote dialogue and collaboration both within and outside Africa. The first symposium to be held by the society is planned for Johannesburg, South Africa in December 2003.

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For more information on the African Materials Research Society, contact Yunus Ballim of the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa, at ballim@civil.wits.ac.za