Twelve SADC Ministers of Science and Technology earlier today, officially adopted the SADC protocol on Science, Technology and Innovation in Pretoria.

The overall objective of this Protocol is to foster cooperation, promote the development, transfer and mastery of science, technology and innovation in Member States.

The SADC protocol on Science Technology and Innovation (STI) is a legally binding document aimed at regulating collaborative initiatives within the SADC region to support the implementation of the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) and Africa’s Science and Technology Consolidated Plan of Action.

The Protocol will improve collaboration between Member States in order to:

• Establish institutional mechanisms in order to strengthen regional cooperation on and coordination of science, technology and innovation,

• Institute management and coordination structures, with clearly defined functions, which will facilitate the implementation of regional STI programmes,

• Promote the development and harmonisation of science, technology and innovation policies in the Region,

• Pool resources for scientific research, technological development within the Region,

• Demystify science, technology and innovation by promoting public understanding and awareness of and meaningful participation in these disciplines, and

• Work towards the elimination of restrictions that restrict the free movement of scientists, technologist and engineers for the purposes of education, research and participation in joint STI programmes.

Science, Technology and Innovation are critical instruments for accelerating economic growth and social development, especially in the context of the countries in Southern Africa Development Community. The cross cutting nature of Science and Technology are critical in many developing countries in Africa, especially in the field of agriculture, health and industrial development. The SADC region plans to align science and technology programmes with those contained in the Africa’s Science and Technology Consolidated Plan of Action, spear headed by the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) programme.

Other issues that were discussed during the meeting include the establishment of the Science and Technology desk within the SADC Secretariat. To date the SADC Secretariat does not have the capacity to co-ordinate science and technology matters.

Issued by the Department of Science and Technology

For media enquiries, contact:

Ms Celeste Tema @ 012 843 6784 / 083 399 0765 or email: celeste.tema@dst.gov.za

For more information about the SADC meeting contact:

Anneline Morgan: Manager, African Cooperation @ (012) 843 6334 /082 523 4918 or email anneline.morgan@dst.gov.