Preface, Dr Allam Ahmed, Prof. Sonny Nwankwo
Dr Allam Ahmed
University of Susses
UK
ORCID: 0000-0002-1494-354X
Professor Sonny Nwankwo
University of East London
UK
ORCID: 0000-0002-2083-7719
We are pleased to present the first volume of a series of books devoted to the dialectics of Sustainable Development (SD) in Africa - from Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) through entrepreneurship to management processes. This first volume uses different prisms of STI to address the problematic of SD. Being a maiden volume, it does not pretend to offer a comprehensive synthesis of STI-based trajectories to SD in Africa. Rather, the intention is to signal a work-study programme and build from this base a robust assemblage of cutting-edge research within the thematic areas.
The rationale (more aptly, the motivation) for this project is embedded within the systemically debilitating human conditions presently confronting many African nations. From a myriad of past interventions to mitigate the continent's socio-economic disadvantages, and the attendant implementation failures, the inescapable conclusion is that the dream of a "final theory" of Africa's development (or lack of it) remains a mirage. Paradoxically, the situation has energised more scholarly endeavours as researchers become more committed not only to engage the discourse in all of its pluralism but also more determined to produce evidence-based perspectives that might help to deliver a better tomorrow for Africa. It is within this frame that the novelty of this book could be appreciated. The basic thrust is to instigate thematic knowledge production and dissemination in a way that is less self-contained but cultivates institutional openness and flexibility, mindful of the philosophical aphorism that adaptability is a condition for sustainability.
The complex relationship between the economy, society and the environment and scientific knowledge requires a multi-disciplinary approach, and calls for skilled communication to be able to address technological issues as well as socio-economic and political frameworks within which problem solving necessarily takes place. In practical terms, this series will demonstrate that SD is a multidisciplinary process, encompassing a range of issues such as science, innovation, technology, research and development, information technology, human capital development, business and management, trade, etc. Thus, in exploring the prospects or the bases for promoting knowledge-based economies and growth in Africa, this series will provide many illustrative examples, complemented with exhaustive research oriented case materials.
The purpose of this book is to address issues that will be central to Africa's SD through efficient and effective management of science, technology and innovation policies, the challenges these pose for the African countries, and the global framework for dealing with technology development, transfer and adoption and, importantly, adaptability in African contexts. The theme has been very carefully chosen; STI and the challenges these represent in terms of SD. Building on the discussions, a number of policy implications can be derived to improve the management and transfer of technologies within Africa countries and consequently enhance genuine efforts towards SD.
Citation: Ahmed, A. and Nwankwo, S. (2010): Preface. In Ahmed, A. and Nwanko, S. (Eds.): Achieving Sustainable Development in Africa: Science, Technology and Innovation Trajectory, Vol. 1, pp. xiv-xvi. WASD: Brighton, United Kingdom.