The Zimbabwe Government yesterday launched a year-long outreach programme that will see Zimbabwe expanding public awareness on the role of science and technology in national economic growth and development. Science and Technology Development Minister Dr Olivia Muchena launched the programme dubbed "Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) and Achievement, Capabilities and Talents 2007", at the Great Zimbabwe Monument. "Science, technology and innovation are central to sustained national economic and social development," said Dr Muchena.



In order for Zimbabwe to register national and sustained economic and social development, she said, it was imperative for the nation to fully embrace science, technology and innovation. "This is the reason why our country places a lot of significance on investment in science, technology and innovation," she said. The aim of the STI-2007 was to enhance the policy, financial, legal and institutionalised environment, for the development and use of STI across all sectors of the economy focusing on niche areas and missions. Dr Muchena said the programme would enable the country to celebrate national achievements, capabilities and talents in STI. She also said under the programme the Government would take stock of the current status, potential and challenges of scientific and technological development and application in the country.



The programme is in line with the Africa Union Summit of Heads of State and Governments held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January this year. At the summit, African leaders agreed to increase funding and support for science, technology and innovation including establishing national and regional centres of excellence in STI. The Government set up a multi-stakeholders' taskforce co-chaired by the Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Development, Cde Patrick Zhuwawo, and president of Zimbabwe Academy and Sciences Professor Christopher Chetsanga to drive the 2007 programme. Zimbabwe's national policy on STI was developed and approved in 2002. Masvingo Governor and Resident Minister Cde Willard Chiwewe, Higher and Tertiary Education Minister Cde Stan Mudenge and Deputy Minister of Education, Sport and Culture Cde Titus Maluleke attended the launch.