Representatives of line ministries with a stake in science, technology and innovation for development and representatives of the National University of Samoa have validated the draft National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy at a workshop at Nafanua convened on 2nd October by the Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries. The involvement of multiple ministries reflects the fact that, as the minister put it, ‘science is everywhere’. The workshop was hosted by the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa.
This will be Samoa’s first National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy, the aim of which is to enhance the interaction of science, technology and innovation with our society in the years to come. The policy will enable science, technology and innovation in addressing complex issues affecting Samoa such as climate change, food security, biodiversity loss, resource depletion, poverty reduction, health, education, gender equality and clean energy.
In recent years, we have witnessed groundbreaking discoveries and innovative technologies in fields ranging from agriculture to healthcare, climate science and artificial intelligence. Yet, these advancements come with complex challenges that require thoughtful frameworks, which the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy strives to address.
The validation process has been a crucial step in elaborating the policy, not merely as an exercise in approval but, rather, as an opportunity for critical reflection and constructive dialogue.
The validation workshop was well attended by a wide range of stakeholders who included policymakers and technical experts in communication, technology, education, health, environment, agriculture and other areas where science plays an important role. Each brought unique insights and experiences to the table that were vital to finalizing a policy that truly serves different sectors’ collective interests and, most importantly, Samoa’s people. For instance, the participants stressed the importance of collaboration and of taking an intersectoral approach for the policy to be impactful.
At the workshop, the Honourable La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt acknowledged UNESCO for its continual funding and support, which has been instrumental in the development of this Science, Technology and Innovation policy.
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SOURCE – Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa
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