Long considered the cradle of humanity, the African continent is now poised to become a global engine of science, technology, and innovation. Rich in human capital, renewable energy, and strategic mineral resources, Africa possesses considerable assets that remain largely untapped. Faced with persistent challenges such as food insecurity, climate change, poverty, and limited access to education and healthcare, science and innovation emerge as essential drivers of transformation.

US-Africa Frontiers, a catalyst for scientific partnerships

It is in this context that the United States National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine launched the US-Africa Frontiers of Science, Engineering, and Medicine program in 2022.

The initiative aims to strengthen scientific dialogue between young African and American researchers, encourage interdisciplinary collaborations, and prepare a new generation of scientific leaders.

Senegal, a hub for scientific diplomacy

Following Nairobi in 2022 and Rabat in 2024, Senegal will host this strategic symposium. The discussions will focus on artificial intelligence, food security, bioinformatics, critical minerals, and maternal health.

For Dr. Moctar Touré, president of the National Academy of Sciences and Techniques of Senegal, the Academy's commitment to organizing this event is fully in line with its mission.

"This symposium pairs young African and American researchers on cutting-edge topics that will shape the world of tomorrow. It was essential that Africa be present in the reflection, construction and use of these technologies," he stressed, emphasizing the central role of scientific diplomacy and international partnership.

A convergence with the National Transformation Agenda 2050

From the authorities' perspective, Professor Amidou Datte, Director General of Research and Innovation at the Ministry of Higher Education, welcomed the event as "timely." According to him, the symposium is perfectly aligned with the vision of the new authorities as expressed in the National Transformation Agenda 2050, which places research and innovation at the heart of national development.

He also believes that this meeting marks a turning point, with projects built jointly by African and American researchers, integrating technology transfer and skills development.

Cooperation based on co-construction

For Dalal Najib, director of international cooperation at the U.S. National Academies, the Frontiers program is based on a strong conviction: scientific excellence has no borders.

"We are in Africa to contribute, but also to learn. There are talents, human resources and scientific issues of global interest here," she says.

These collaborative workshops will enable African and American researchers to jointly develop long-term projects, integrating technology transfer, institutional strengthening, and skills development. This is a strong signal that positions Senegal as a key player in the new era of international scientific cooperation.