FEATURED: Science conference focuses on tech to provide solutions to Covid-19 challenges

Late last week, Rwanda hosted its first science conference organised by the National Council for Science and Technology (NCST), a public institution that among other things advises the government on policies, legislation and regulation in the fields of science, technology, research and innovation and monitor the implementation of such policies and legislation. The conference took place in a hybrid way – physical and online, and it attracted a number of scientists and researchers from Academic and Research Institutions, leaders of Research and Development in NGOs, Embassies and Ministries from all over the world, postgraduate students from different countries, health sector researchers and private sectors collaborators. Held under the theme: “Leveraging the Potential of Science and Technology to Mitigate Challenges Associated with COVID-19 pandemic in Developing Countries,” the conference deliberated on innovative strategies that utilize evidence-based scientific and technological tools to close the gap for Covid-19 related challenges, examined existing data to leverage the potential for science and technology to mitigate the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic in developing countries, and looked at sustainable solutions and strategies to inform future research and capabilities in response to COVID-19, to mention a few. The participants discussed topics including the use of artificial intelligence, data science, robotics, use of drones, and more, which can provide opportunities for improved fast-tracking diagnosis, containment, analyzing, and predicting the trends of the pandemic. Speaking to the participants, Eugene Mutimura, a Rwandan scientist and researcher who is the currently the Executive Secretary of the NCST said the conference is an essential platform for scientists and leaders to look at the crucial contribution of science and technology in addressing health challenges and supporting the society and economy in times of turmoil, as well as highlighting the importance of collective demand for scientific expertise and coordination. “This is the first Rwandan conference on science, technology and innovation to provide an opportunity for global scientists to deliver on key important areas of digital divide and the key data gaps to address the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said. He tasked his fellow scientists to play a key role in shaping Covid-19 recovery and placing health and equity in a priority position. “Looking ahead, each of us has a vital role to play, shaping Covid-19 recovery to a new normal life, placing health and equity at the heart of all programs and policies,” he added. Dr. Daniel Ngamije, the Minister of Health, who was also the Guest of Honour at the conference told the conference’s participants about how Rwanda has used technology to respond to Covid-19, where he noted that the country has technology solutions including robots, drones, bracelets and GPS tracking systems for cross border trucks, and digital software to deal with some challenges posed by the pandemic. Looking ahead, he said the country aims at improving its data systems to: handle future pandemics including sub-regional data sharing, leverage technology and knowledge transfer in vaccine production with required, and integrate wearable devices to ease and monitor physiological changes. He added that the ministry also hopes to use Interconnected Digital medical tools for detection of NCDs using screening corners in (Supermarkets, Pharmacies, Public institutions) to track NCDs Trends and generate data to inform Health Policies. Delegates follow a presentation during the first science conference organised by the National Council for Science and Technology. Minister of Health Dr Daniel Ngamije addresses the first science conference organised by the National Council for Science and Technology (NCST). Minister of health Dr Daniel Ngamije, Eugene Mutimura ,NCST Executive Secretary and Dr Agnes Binagwaho visit a stand of ZORA BOTS Africa at mini expo. Officials pose for a group photo during the launch of the first science conference organised by the National Council for Science and Technology. Officials visit Zipline Rwandas stand during a mini exhibition at the conference in Kigali on March 30.

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FEATURED: Science conference focuses on tech to provide solutions to Covid-19 challenges