By Felix Khanoba
Over 1,000 scientists from across the globe are set to gather in Abuja, Nigeria, for the 15th General Assembly and Scientific Conference aimed at redefining Africa’s approach to science and unlocking its potential to drive the continent’s development.
Slated for December 9-12, 2024, the conference, themed “Empowering and Advancing Africa’s Scientific Enterprise,” will bring together distinguished minds and key stakeholders, including policy experts, regional science bodies, development partners, and African leaders.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday in Abuja ahead of the event organised by the African Academy of Sciences, the Secretary General of AAS, Professor Friday Okonofua, said that President Bola Tinubu is expected to open the conference, while African Development Bank President, Professor Akinwunmi Adesina, will deliver the keynote address.
According to the renowned Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, the event promises to address critical issues in health, climate change, science diplomacy, agriculture, infrastructure, digital economy, and funding mechanisms.
“The conference will feature prominent presenters, including Professor Patrick Lumumba from Kenya, Professor Olubayi Olubayi from Uganda, and Professor Oyewale Tomori, President of the West African Network of Science Academies,” Okonofua revealed.
He further emphasized the significance of the AAS, a pan-African learned society established in 1985, stating, “The AAS, headquartered in Nairobi, is a non-aligned, non-political, not-for-profit society promoting the development of all African countries through science.”
According to him, during the conference, the academy will also induct new fellows and announce recipients of prestigious awards, including the Olusegun Obasanjo Prize.
“We strongly believe the conference’s outcomes hold immense promise for repositioning Africa’s scientific outlook and leveraging it for the continent’s future growth,” Okonofua added.
