INGSA 2024: Science granting councils and innovation agencies as advocates for strong national STI systems

Date and time of the event

May 1, 2024  
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Central Africa Time  

Kigali Convention Centre  
KG 2 Roundabout Kigali 
Kigali, Rwanda 

Held as part of the 2024 conference of the International Network for Governmental Science Advice (INGSA2024) in Kigali, Rwanda, this panel will delve into the intricate landscape of science, technology and innovation (STI) funding, policy advice and advocacy in countries across the Global South.

National organizations such as granting councils and innovation agencies play a crucial role in advising and advocating for effective and impactful national STI systems. They are also responsible for disbursing funds to support science and innovation initiatives. These organizations have a deep understanding of their respective countries' public policy environments and STI landscapes, making them important players in developing, funding and managing such initiatives. To keep up with the constantly changing global STI landscape, it is vital to engage and learn from these national organizations.

What to expect:

• Experiences and insights: Hear firsthand experiences from various funders and agencies that have spearheaded efforts to transform STI systems in their countries and across Africa. 
• Challenges and opportunities: Explore the multifaceted roles of public organizations in STI, including providing effective policy advice and promoting the utilization of research results in public policy. 
• Navigating complexity: Discover the strategies and approaches employed by national organizations to navigate the complexities of STI systems in the Global South.

Panelists:

• Naser Faruqui, director of IDRC’s Education and Science program
• Charlotte Watts, chief scientific adviser and director for research and evidence, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, United Kingdom 
• Esperance Munganyinka, head of the Department of National Research and Innovation Fund, National Council for Science and Technology, Rwanda 
• Yaya Sangare, secretary general, Fonds pour la Science, la Technologie et l'Innovation, Côte d'Ivoire 
• Salvatore Aricò: CEO, International Science Council  
• Gift Kadzamira: director general, National Commission for Science and Technology, Malawi 

More information about the event and INGSA2024 can be found here.