SciDev.Net

Colombia's vice-president has given new impetus to the country's innovation system — a move well received by the scientific community.

South Africa's science minister has named the board members of a new agency that the government hopes will be the saviour of innovation.

A new foundation, supported by a number of African banks, will seek to promote the use of scientific knowledge across the continent.

Knowledge must be converted into application if Africa is to cure its ills, a conference in Senegal has been told.

Uruguay will fund national scientists living abroad to return to the country temporarily and share their knowledge.

The UN has assisted Iraq in developing science and technology through an agreement that will support the country's science-based industry.

Lebanon's parliament has endorsed a plan to reform science and technology policy with a focus on human resource development and capacity building.

Genomic medicine in developing countries needs government support and protection of 'genomic sovereignty', says researchers.

Member states of the Arab League have approved a ten-year strategy aiming to boost higher education and scientific research.

African finance ministers have been urged to increase funding for R&D in order to boost innovation systems on the continent.

The European Union has announced the proposal of a 'blue card' scheme to attract skilled workers from Africa, Asia and Latin America.

The United Arab Emirates has announced a US$10 billion foundation to fund science for development in the Arab region.

A senior Indian scientist says the World Bank's recommendation that India allow greater privatisation of higher education is misguided.