Recommendations

Draft Recommendations

TWAS –ARO Visions and Expectations

June 2 – 3, 2005

Alexandria

The Third World Academy of Sciences Regional Office for the Arab Countries (TWAS-ARO) aims to promote scientific capacity and excellence for sustainable development in the region.

The overall objective of the TWAS-ARO is to promote the activities of TWAS and its affiliated organizations ( The Third World Network of Scientific Organizations , The Third World Organization for Women in Science, The Inter Academy Panel and The Inter Academy Medical Panel) in the region, as recommended by the Academy's current and future strategic plans..

In order to fulfill these commitments, the main focus will be on the following three main areas, with emphasis on quality and merit-based evaluation,

1. Promote science to the public
2. Networks of Excellence
3. Young Scientists

 1. Promoting public awareness of science

• Establishing an electronic newsletter.
• Establishing a website.
• Producing scientific audiovisuals material to feed media and the general public (including video conferencing).
• Public lectures by eminent scientists.
• Create popular science magazine in Arabic in both hard and electronic form.
• Organize round table meetings across the Arab region to promote the role of science. and technology in sustainable development.

2. Networking

• Developing a directory/ database of active Arab scientists operating inside and outside the Arab region including women scientists.
• Developing a directory/ database of competent scientific Institutions in the Arab region.
• Identifying best scientists in the regions for nominations to TWAS membership and awards.
• Encouraging regional cooperation among identified research centers in the Arab region.
• Establishing links and initiating collaborative programs with regional offices of TWAS and other organizations.

3. Young Scientists

• Supporting student exchange programs.
• Mentoring through linking young scientists to senior ones, especially TWAS fellows.
• Establishing Awards and Prizes.

Promoting the establishment Science Olympiads both national and regional.