From Rwanda, World Science Community Pushes for Science and Technology Based Policies

INGSA 2024 in Rwanda encourages the transformation of scientific advice to development policy based on science and technology.

IRMA TAMBUNAN

Opening of the International Network for Governmental Science Advice (INGSA) 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda, Wednesday (1/5/2024).

KIGALI, KOMPAS — The world science community is pushing for the importance of transforming scientific advice for policy making. Policies that are based on science and technology or science and technology can spur development and a better quality of life for society.

This was summarized at the opening of The International Network for Governmental Science Advice (INGSA) 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda, Wednesday (1/5/2024).

"We need to continue to search for new ways to support evidence-based policies and governance practices at all levels," said Remi Quirion, President of INGSA.

This conference brings together various scientific and technological research institutions, researchers, policymakers, and world organizations to promote scientific suggestions for the direction of development and policy-making.

IRMA TAMBUNAN

Prime Minister of Rwanda Édouard Ngirente (left), Education Minister Gaspard Twagirayezu, and INGSA President Remi Quirion head to the opening of the International Network for Governmental Science Advice (INGSA) 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda, on Wednesday (5/1/2024).

Quirion emphasized that the world is facing a big and complex challenge. Scientific recommendations in the present time require a comprehensive, interconnected, and multidimensional approach.

We need to continue to look for new ways to support evidence-based policy and governance practices at all levels.

Scientific recommendations no longer simply result in reports. It is hoped that they will be further pushed through communication and diplomacy. The aim is for them to be used as the basis for policymaking.

Chair of INGSA 2024, Oladoyin Odubanjo, added the need to integrate diverse perspectives and expand the evidence base for policy decisions. "This is important to rebuild and maintain trust," he said.

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Several discussions are expected to address various global challenges, particularly climate-related issues that have widespread impacts on various aspects of life. Therefore, urgent handling and transformative approaches are needed.

IRMA TAMBUNAN

Traditional Rwandan dance was displayed during the opening of the International Network for Governmental Science Advice (INGSA) 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda, on Wednesday (1/5/2024).

Policy makers are expected to take bold action, even to mitigate the worst impacts. In addition, building scientific communication and designing smart cities must also be based on scientific data. Therefore, it is necessary to utilize artificial intelligence.

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This meeting is also expected to create inclusivity. Access to scientific knowledge and infrastructure is still uneven. Global scientific recommendations need to involve more parties and target developing countries so they can grow faster.

INGSA 2024 was attended by 65 country contingents after an in-person hiatus during the Covid-19 pandemic. For the first time, the conference was held in Africa.

The role of scientists

Rwandan Prime Minister Édouard Ngirente was present to open the conference. Also seen was Education Minister Gaspard Twagirayezu.

In his speech, Edouard Ngirente stated that the transformation of scientific advice is absolutely necessary for the direction of development. Human resources also need to be improved. In this regard, the country receives support from the University of Rwanda in the form of scientific advice for development transformation.

IRMA TAMBUNAN

Rwandan Prime Minister Édouard Ngirente (left) gave a speech at the opening of the International Network for Governmental Science Advice (INGSA) 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda on Wednesday (1/5/2024).

He acknowledged the importance of the role of scientists in development across all sectors. The country is required to take bold and strategic actions in setting a global science agenda. Overcoming the most pressing challenges and responding to development priorities. The goal is to improve social welfare and sustainable development.

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Minister of Education Gaspard Twagirayezu also highlighted Rwanda's openness to science and technology. One of them is the issuance of the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy which was launched in 2022. This policy serves as a foundation for the country to grow as a center of innovation.

He stressed that science, technology, and innovation are needed to achieve Rwanda's ambitious goal of becoming a high-income country by 2050. Rwanda has also set a target to ensure a high quality of life for its citizens.

IRMA TAMBUNAN

Two children walk after school in the city of Kigali, Rwanda, Wednesday (1/5/2024).

The policy serves as the foundation for Rwanda to become a center of innovation and align growth. In addition, it provides a roadmap for the country to mitigate risks.