Renewal Plans for the Commonwealth Science Council
12 June 2003
The 21st meeting of the Commonwealth Science Council (CSC) on 10-12 June concluded in Johannesburg, South Africa, today, with a determination to adapt the Council to the new century. The meeting was chaired by South African Arts, Culture, Science and Technology Minister Ben Ngubane, who is the CSC chairman. Deputy Secretary-General Florence Mugasha represented Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon at the meeting.The Council mandated its Executive Committee to act as a 'Task Team', co-chaired by South Africa and India, to develop a renewal plan.
Senior scientists and government officials from both developed and developing countries around the Commonwealth discussed how science and technology can be harnessed for sustainable development and poverty alleviation. They examined how best to organise the sharing of scientific ideas, related policies and best practice between Commonwealth countries.
Discussions focused on the recommendations of the Commonwealth Intergovernmental Committee regarding the future direction of the CSC.
Pending final approval of the Council's longer term work programmes, it was agreed to give priority in 2003-04 to activities in four areas: Water & Mineral Resources, Biodiversity & Genetic Resources, Chemical Research and Environmental Needs, and scientific networking through the Commonwealth Knowledge Network.
The meeting approved the budget for 2003/2004. It also agreed to extend the terms of office of the current Chair and Executive Committee until December 2003 to complete the renewal plan.
03/42 12 June 2003
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- Commonwealth ICT SummitBetty Mould Iddrisu, Director, Legal and Constitutional Affairs
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