By Queen Kunde
Former Governor of Cross River State, H.E. Clement David Ebri, delivered a keynote address at the International Conference on Biotechnology (ICoB24) in Abuja, Nigeria, organized by the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NABRDA). Emphasizing the vital role of biotechnology in driving economic growth, Ebri stressed the need for a shift from “science for science’s sake” to “science for societal benefits.” He called for increased investment in science, technology, and innovation (STI) and a focus on translating research into practical applications through technology transfer and commercialization.
Ebri lauded NABRDA for facilitating the conference, which aims to highlight biotechnology’s transformative potential and propose sector-specific investment models to make it a significant contributor to Africa’s GDP growth. He emphasized the importance of cross-disciplinary and transborder networking, knowledge exchange, and capacity building to empower African scientists and entrepreneurs in the global biotechnology landscape.
The keynote speaker posed critical questions, challenging attendees to reflect on the tangible outcomes of research activities, African economies’ readiness to harness science for growth, and biotechnology’s contributions to economic development. He stressed the need to bridge the gap between laboratory research and practical applications, emphasizing that science must challenge conventions and reimagine old paradigms.
Ebri urged African countries to increase investments in R&D, following the examples of the United States and India, which have yielded substantial economic benefits. He proposed prioritizing funding for science-based projects with commercial viability and immediate societal benefits, envisioning a prosperous Africa where biotech innovators have access to grants and resources, driving advancements in food security, healthcare, renewable energy, and education.
The conference brought together scientists, policymakers, scholars, industry leaders, and biotechnology enthusiasts to propose investment models that would make biotechnology a significant contributor to Africa’s GDP growth. Ebri’s address highlighted the need for a new philosophical orientation towards science, technology, and innovation that prioritizes practical benefits and socio-economic development.