The Next Einstein Forum (NEF) announced its new class of ambassadors, the third cohort of young science and technology champions from across Africa. One ambassador from each African country will drive public engagement activities to promote science and technology education, research, and innovation in their countries.
“This selection comes at a time when we are working to accelerate science diplomacy and collaboration to solve Africa’s and the world’s grand challenges. This new cohort is already working to advance the frontiers of science and technology to solve societal problems through research and outreach,” Youssef Travaly, NEF’s vice-president of Science, Innovation and Institutional Partnerships said.
He added, “Leveraging their momentum and the wider NEF community of scientists, we hope to influence a clear policy and public opinion shift, spurring action and investment. Congratulations to all ambassadors.”
NEF ambassadors are selected through a rigorous process that includes a review of academic achievements, entrepreneurial abilities, and track record of public engagement efforts.
“Our ambition is to multiply the number of role models by building a strong community of scientists who are active in their communities. This will help improve coordination and accelerate impact. Ambassadors, in particular, help advance the NEF’s objective to make science and technology a central part of regional and local development through the organisation of Africa Science Week’s in their countries. We look forward to working with each of them,” said Nathalie Munyampenda, NEF’s managing director.
NEF ambassadors will represent their country at the NEF’s premier science and innovation gathering on 10-13 March in Nairobi, Kenya.
The NEF is accepting applications for Eritrea, Somalia, South Sudan, Equatorial Guinea, Namibia, Central African Republic, Burundi, Libya, and Mozambique.
