Chemistry in Africa

Posted by Simon Davies Jan 12, 2008

I recently discovered this new initiative on the Royal Society of Chemistry in the UK. Aided by a £1 million grant from Swiss Argibusiness, Syngenta, they have established the Pan Africa Chemistry Network.

This network is designed to promote science in four partricular areas.

First is in schools. The support of teachers in schools through courses, materials and resources is vital in encouraging development of Chemistry among children.

Second in Higher Education, the Network aims to support institutions with digitised materials.

Third, networking and conferencing among scientists in Africa will encourage them to work together on scientific issues facing the continent, especially in agriculture.

Fourth, centres of excellence in the chemical sciences will be set up, beginning at Nairobi University in Kenya, to support further development.

This is a very positive step. For too long we have focussed on humanitarian aid for Africa, while the support of important infrastructure has been neglected. A network like this can only be a good thing.

For further information look at the Pan Africa section of the RSC website here.