Denis Opudo
The third inauguration of Africa Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI Forum) was held in Cairo Egypt. During the forum, Akinwumi Adesina the president of African Development Bank (AfDB) stated that Africa young population projection is 840million by 2050. Following the statistics report, Adesina called for heavy investment in research work, innovation, and technology, science, higher education, and entrepreneurship.
In addition, he encouraged Africans to embrace the culture of science and innovation facilitated by the large population of youths. Furthermore, he noted that rapid economic growth requires women development opportunities in technology, science, mathematics, engineering, research, and business. Moreover, African youths form the greatest asset of the continent due to possession of large innovative ideas and manpower.
According to Emeka Anuforo AfDB Communication Officer, the bank commitments comprise of expansion of education funds and partnership with foreign donors. The government of Japan and Islamic Development Bank form the basic association aimed at supporting higher Education in the continent. In addition, Anuforo emphasized the need for Africa to keep at par with fourth industrial revolution focusing on science and innovation.
On average, 300 delegates of the president of African Development Bank and Africa countries ministers attended the African STI Forum in Cairo.
