Lise Korsten, president of the African Academy of Sciences (AAS), said there is too little scientific evidence produced in Africa. She spoke at the Transatlantic Big Science Conference on 27-28 June and was appointed last year as the AAS's first woman president.
Korsten said data on antimicrobial resistance in human, animal and plant health mostly comes from developed countries. African policymakers often use global data that does not fit local conditions. The AAS is building networks, starting a science diplomacy programme and will hold a workshop in August for fellows and experts in water security. The academy also wants experienced researchers abroad to return and mentor local teams, but funding is still a challenge.
Difficult words
- evidence — information or facts that show a claim is true
- scientific — connected to science and to research
- policymaker — person who makes rules or government planspolicymakers
- antimicrobial resistance — ability of microbes to survive medicines
- workshop — meeting where people learn or work together
- funding — money that pays for projects or activities
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think it matters if health data comes from local conditions? Why?
- Should researchers abroad return to mentor local teams in your country? Why or why not?
Related articles
Earth's magnetic field may move tiny air particles to the Moon
New research shows Earth's magnetic field can guide tiny particles from our atmosphere to the lunar surface. Computer simulations suggest this process worked best with a strong modern magnetic field and could leave a record in moon soil.
Researchers Call for Clear Rules on Gene-Edited Crops in Mexico
Mexican researchers want rules that distinguish gene-edited crops from GMOs. They launched a petition asking the government for evidence-based regulation while warning a March decree banning genetically modified maize could also affect gene editing.