Science and technology, prerequisites for Development, MP

Accra (Greater Accra), 30th June 99 -

Mr Francis Kwame Nyarko, Member of Parliament (MP) for Kade on Tuesday stressed the need for African governments to see science and technology as important tools for the development of their various economies.

Mr Nyarko made the statement on the floor of the House to commemorate this year's celebration of the Day of Scientific Renaissance of Africa, which falls on Wednesday, Jue 30, under the theme "Science and Technology in Propelling Private Sector Development".

He observed that scientific knowledge has been accumulating for over a long period, and has had a consistent, if frequently unperceived effect in shaping the fundamental character of human societies.

He explained that Science is the pursuit of knowledge and understanding of the physical and human environment, while technology is the application of this theoretical knowledge to specific social and economic circumstances.

Mr Nyarko disagreed strongly with the school of thought that believes that Africa has not invented anything, and described this notion as rather "otiose and inappropriate."

He pointed out that because human beings are free to pursue certain branches of science rather than others, and apply the results as they see fit, Africa in its pursuit of science, does not have to re-invent the wheel.

Mr Nyarko stated that the whole platform of scientific heritage is there for Africans to draw upon and that was the reason why the Organisation of African Unity passed the Resolution of July 1988 to celebrate the Day of the Scientific Renaissance of Africa.

The MP urged African governments to use the occasion to institutionalise science and technology as an instrument of national development policy, so that significant socio-economic progress could be made.

Mr Nyarko said it is regrettable that in the bustling business quarters of Africa's advanced cities, there are utter poverty, ignorance, lack of health and educational opportunities and other basic needs.

He said such gross distortions must be removed through the application of science and technology to industry adding that this could be done through partnerships between government and the private sector.

There should also be partnerships between the universities and research institutions where Science and Technology are highly cultivated.

Mr Nyarko charged African governments to take pragmatic steps to inject science and technology in their policy formulations, and make firm political and financial commitment to these disciplines.

Additionally, he said, African governments should allocate sufficient appropriations in their national budgets for manpower training and research and development.

Mr Nyarko said for science and technology to play a more pivotal role in shaping the character and direction of human society in Africa in the 21st century, leaders on the continent should seriously consider appointing

Scientific Advisers to address with dispatch sensitive and effective, science and technology issues.

Mr John Kwekucher Ackah, NDC-Aowin Suaman and Mr Al-Hassan Kwaku Dadzie, NDC-Assin South, associated themselves with the statement.

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