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Science, Technology and Innovation

Protocol on Science, Technology and innovation

A Protocol on Science, Technology and Innovation was signed by Heads of State and Government in August 2008, Johannesburg, South Africa. It is a blueprint document that outlines the framework of cooperation between Member States within the SADC region. It came about through extensive deliberations between Member States and talks to scientific and technological matters of interest within the region. The aims and objectives of the Protocol are to-

• Establish institutional mechanisms in order to strengthen regional cooperation and coordination on STI;
• Institute management and coordination structures, with clearly defined functions, which will facilitate the implementation regional STI programmes;
• Promote the development and harmonisation of STI policies in the Region;
• Pool resources for scientific research, technological development and innovation within the Region;
• Optimise public and private investment in research and development within the Region and leverage external contributions;
• Implement the RISDP and CPA and other STI programmes agreed upon in regional and international fora;
• Demystify STI by promoting public understanding and awareness and meaningful participation in these disciplines.
• Recognise, develop and promote the value of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) and technologies;
• Share experiences and develop joint initiatives that promote appropriate technologies for wealth creation and elimination of poverty within communities, especially in rural areas;
• Develop human resources in STI and work collectively towards the attraction, motivation and retention of scientists for the development of the Region;
• Strengthen institutional capacity in research and technology institutions in the Region and facilitate institutional cooperation and networks;
• Work towards the elimination of restrictions of movement of scientists and technologists within SADC for the purpose of education, research and participation and joint STI programmes;
• Enhance and strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights;
• Increase access to the teaching and learning of basic science and mathematics at all level of the education systems; and
• Promote gender equity and equality in the teaching and learning of basic science and mathematics at all levels of the education system. (Protocol on STI)