The Angolan government and the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) have inaugurated the Luanda Science and Technology Park, which is intended to support research, innovation and entrepreneurship as the country seeks to diversify its economy.
The park forms part of a $100 million Science and Technology Development Project (STDP), which, according to the AfDB, has refurbished several science facilities and trained more than 1,500 science teachers.
Angolan president João Lourenço said the project reflects the country's commitment to using science and technology to support economic development.
"We want this infrastructure to become a meeting point between academia, scientific research, companies and young entrepreneurs. It is through knowledge, innovation and the capacity of our young people that we will build new solutions to address Angola's challenges," said Lourenço.
"This investment represents an important step towards strengthening national research capacities and advancing the country's technological development."
According to the AfDB, the project has also invested in human capital by providing 161 scholarships for study at international universities and funding secondary education for 1,204 girls from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue science-related studies and careers.
The investments also support Angola's National Development Plan 2023-2027, which aims to reduce the country's dependence on oil by promoting a more diversified, resilient and inclusive economy.
They are also aligned with the AfDB's strategic priorities of investing in youth, skills development and employment to translate demographic growth into economic opportunity.
The STDP partnership between Angola and the AfDB has also equipped 54 science laboratories in 18 secondary schools, trained more than 1,500 faculty members, researchers, technicians and academic counsellors, and funded 73 research projects, nearly one-third of which were awarded to women.
“The inauguration of the science and technology park represents an important milestone in the implementation of Angola’s national science, technology and innovation policy.
"This infrastructure creates the conditions to strengthen scientific research, promote innovation, and contribute to economic diversification through knowledge, competitiveness and the development of national solutions,” said minister of higher education, science and technology, Albano Lopes Ferreira.
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