Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng delivering his speech
Ghana will soon have a Council dedicated to advising the President on the development of Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) policy in the country.
The advisory Council, to be constituted in the future, will have gurus in STEM education, research and industry with ‘deep knowledge and experience in STEM’, as members.
“President Akufo-Addo has decided to form an advisory council for science and technology…The Council is expected to provide timely and confidential evidence-based advice on STI policy issues to the President to advance the contributions of STI to Ghana’s economic development,” Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng said.
The Sector Minister who is an advocate for Science Technology and Innovation (STI) said the constitution of the Council formed part of government’s policies to help bring about significant improvement in the areas of technology, science and innovation.
Mr. Frimpong-Boateng was speaking at the maiden edition of the Next Einstein Forum (NEF) Africa Science Week Ghana conference on the theme, “Accelerating Growth and Development through STEM.”
The NEF Africa Science Week celebrations is Africa’s biggest annual celebration of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) that brings together thousands of participants to engage in coordinated events aimed at promoting the adoption of STEM across the African continent.
Thus the conference sought to elevate the conversation, foster greater participation and encourage the active adoption of STEM to accelerate Ghana’s development.
Professor Frimpong-Boateng said the government also plans to pursue strong strategic technologies that will enable us to build machine parts, machines and installations; to drive our manufacturing industry.
“These measures outlined will help us achieve the president’s vision of Ghana beyond aid. The policy initiatives will place science, technology and innovation at the centre of the country’s development agenda.”
On his part, the Ambassador for NEF-Ghana, Peter Asare- Nuamah said they were confident, such events will help promote the adoption of STEM across Africa.
According to him, the concentration will not only be in the urban areas as some awareness and training will be taken to some specific rural areas.
“The Next Einstein Forum (NEF) is an initiative of the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS). It is to make Africa a hub for science and technology and increase our contribution to research.
By Jamila Akweley Okertchiri