WAAW Foundation at the African Union (AU) Inaugural Meeting of the Task Force for the Development of STISA-2034.
We’re thrilled to share our participation in the inaugural meeting of the African Union’s Task Force and Drafting Team for the Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA-2034). Held at the AUC in Addi-Ababa, Ethiopia on the 29th-30th May 2024, this gathering brought together leading African experts in Science and Technology Innovation (STI) to map out the next decade of scientific progress across the continent.
Recognition for Empowering Women and Girls in STEM: Our Invitation from the African Union Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (AUC-ESTI).
The fact that we were one of the two NGOs invited to this critical event by the African Union Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (AUC-ESTI), His Excellency Professor Mohammed Belhocine, is a powerful acknowledgement. It underscores the growing recognition of the essential role organizations like ours play. Our presence highlights the urgent need to equip girls and women with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in STEM fields.
STISA: Driving Africa’s Innovation Engine
The Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA) serves as a blueprint for leveraging science and technology to propel Africa towards a knowledge-based economy. Adopted in 2014, STISA-2024 aligns with the aspirations of Agenda 2063, a vision for an Africa defined by self-determination, inclusive growth, and sustainable development.
Taking Stock and Shaping the Future of African Science and Technology
The inaugural meeting of the STISA-2034 Task Force signifies a crucial step in shaping the future of scientific and technological advancement in Africa. Experts came together to assess progress made under STISA-2024, identify challenges encountered, and glean valuable lessons learned. Experts from the African Union (AU), United Nations (UN), Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), and other AU Partner Institutions came together to assess progress made under STISA-2024, identify challenges encountered, and glean valuable lessons learned. These insights will provide the foundation for crafting recommendations that will inform the development of STISA-2034, ensuring Africa stays at the forefront of innovation.
Investing in the Next Generation of Scientific Leaders
Our unwavering commitment lies in empowering African girls and women with STEM education. It was an honor to have one of our 2019 scholars from Addis Ababa University – Ethiopia, Kiya, attend the meeting alongside our Partnerships and Fundraising Manager, Timi Onafeso. By fostering their intellectual curiosity and nurturing their technical skills, we’re equipping these young women to become the transformative leaders who will drive Africa’s scientific and technological progress. Our participation in the STISA-2034 discussions underscores the importance of integrating diverse voices and perspectives into shaping the continent’s scientific future.
This is a momentous occasion for us, a testament to our dedication to bridging the gender gap in STEM fields. By investing in girls’ education today, we are all building a brighter, more innovative future for Africa.
