The first Science, Technology and Innovation Week is launched at UNECA Conference Center November 12, 2015, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Ethiopian Herald reported.

The week was launched under the theme “Science, Technology and Research for the Development of Our Nation”.

Demeke Mekonnen, Deputy Prime Minister, speaking at the opening of a three-day panel discussion and exhibition said the Ethiopian government knows sustainability comes when social and political economy go hand in hand with science and technology innovation. “Accordingly, the government has enacted policies and regulations that focus on incorporating science and technology as well as innovation to sustain the country’s rapid economic growth.

Realizing this fact, due emphasis is given to the development and utilization of science, technology and innovation in our Second Growth and Transformation Plan.”

He also said government’s attention and commitment to the development of science, technology and innovation can be seen in the establishment of institutes of technology in ten universities, two science and technology universities and the 70/30 concept in which 70 percent of the enrolled students to focus on science, technology and natural science.

Science and Technology Minister Abiy Ahmed said the week is dedicated to citizens to remind them about the importance of science, technology and innovation for the actualization of national development objectives.

Source: Ethiopian Herald