The African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) believes that research, capacity building and policy incentives are key drivers of knowledge creation, dissemination and application.
Generating new knowledge, enhancing the skills of individuals and organizations, and creating a supportive policy environment that encourages the use of evidence-based solutions can drive progress towards a more sustainable, equitable and prosperous future. By focusing on these three elements, ACTS aims to enable African countries and institutions to harness science, technology and innovation for sustainable and inclusive development.
Research helps to generate new knowledge and insights, which can be used to inform policy decisions and guide the development of new innovations. Capacity building, on the other hand, enables individuals and organizations to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to apply the insights generated through research. Policy incentives provide a framework for promoting and supporting the development and implementation of new ideas, technologies, and practices.In combination, these three approaches can unlock the power of knowledge by creating a virtuous cycle of innovation and growth - which aligns neatly with ACTS’ mandate.
In this edition of the ACTS newsletter, we feature a new research initiative for Science Granting Councils, a novel agricultural technology that aims to boost food production in East Africa and shed light on how our Blue Empowerment project is using multi-criteria mapping. We also have a new cohort of of AfricaLics visiting fellows: who are they? What are their research focus?
Meanwhile, our AI4D Africa project organized a Summer School which resolved to initiate a new Masters’ degree programme on AI and machine learning. We also highlight what transpired in a meeting between ACTS and Ethiopian Minister of Technology; a new strategy for technology transfer in East Africa; and, why ACTS is exploring possibilities of setting up an office at Konza Technopolis. Did I mention that ACTS Press is about to publish a new book on research methods? Yes, we have a sneak preview of it.
