• 12 Jan 2024
6TH ASRIC CONGRESS
The 6th ASRIC Congress occurred on December 7th and 8th, 2023, in Rabat, Morocco, adopting a hybrid mode with both online and physical participation. Preceding the congress, a scientific conference took place on December 5th and 6th, with over 200 scientists discussing the theme "Science, Technology and Innovation for Development." The congress comprised keynote addresses, presentations on ASRIC frameworks and reports, and updates on flagship projects, leading to significant decisions and endorsements.
1. Key Themes and Addresses:
- The theme centered on STI as a driving force for Africa's development and the 4th Industrial Revolution and AI in Africa.
- Urged the development of an African agenda based on STI and a shift to a transformative economy.
2. Flagship Projects and Achievements:
- Commended the progress of the ASRIC Flagship project "Africa Free of Hepatitis" and called for active member state and international participation.
- Addressed the Concept Note on Designating ASRIC Centers of Excellence, forming a committee for further improvement.
- Acknowledged achievements and contributions to projects on Technology Hunters, COVID-19 Treatment, and African Disaster Management Research Centre (ADMIR).
3. ASRIC Scholarship Scheme and Capacity Building:
- Appreciated the ASRIC Scholarship Scheme led by Euromed University of Fes.
- Urged increased participation of leading African universities, especially in promoting women's involvement.
- Requested innovative proposals for co-supervision, student exchange, and visiting academics to enhance the scholarship scheme.
4. Fighting Stunting in Africa:
- Called upon the working group to develop a white paper for presentation to AU and member states on malnutrition and pollution.
5. International Collaboration and Platforms:
- Appreciated the ASRIC representative to the International Platform on Adaptation Metrics (IPAM) and urged increased involvement.
- Encouraged a virtual meeting to inform Congress members about IPAM and promote participation.
6. Diaspora Chapters:
- Acknowledged the efforts of Diaspora Chapters (UK, Australia) and recommended exploring knowledge exchange forums.
- Recommended the establishment of an African Studies Institute in Australia and urged more engagement of the Africa Diaspora in ASRIC programs.
7. Financial and Administrative Matters:
- Expressed concern about financial and human resource shortages hindering ASRIC's mandates.
- Urged the African Union to provide necessary funds and requested a meeting between ASRIC's Chairperson and the AU Commission Chairperson.
8. Appreciation:
- Expressed gratitude to His Majesty, Mohammed VI, King of Morocco, and the Hassan II Academy for their support.
- Appreciated reviewers, scientists, lead researchers, Congress members, and ASRIC Bureau for their contributions.
9. Endorsement:
- All decisions made during the Congress were unanimously endorsed by participants on December 8th, 2023, in Rabat, Morocco.
