Seychelles Harnessing Science, Technology, and Innovation for Sustainable Development

Seychelles Harnessing Science, Technology, and Innovation for Sustainable Development

The picturesque archipelago of Seychelles is making strides in the realm of Science Technology and Innovation (STI) with the recent introduction of its draft STI policy review. A two-day seminar was organized to underscore the importance of STI in steering the nation’s development. This event was a joint initiative by the Ministry of Investment, Entrepreneurship, and Industry and an international trade organization.

(Also Read: Socialists Demand Defence Minister’s Resignation, Extraordinary Meeting of Defence Committee in Parliament)

The workshop, which spanned from September 25 to 27, aimed to enhance the understanding of local partners about the pivotal role of STI as a driving force for economic expansion. Devika Vidot, the Minister for Investment, Entrepreneurship, and Industry, accentuated the necessity for the policy to furnish the country with the ability to thrive and innovate in an environment that is constantly evolving. She also highlighted the country’s ability to quickly adapt to changes and develop technologies and innovation for socio-economic development.

Policy Review and Future Development

Dimo Calovski, a consultant with the international trade organization, stated that the policy review was one of two programs that the organization is implementing with Seychelles. According to him, after several years of implementation and in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government has decided to reconsider some concepts, make some revisions, and consider some paths for future development of this policy.

The first day of the workshop was primarily focused on soliciting feedback and developing perspectives on the policy. The speakers noted that Seychelles, as a small island developing state, faces sustainable development challenges, including climate change, and water and waste management. They also brought attention to the challenges posed by front-end technologies such as artificial intelligence, which are advancing rapidly and outpacing policy considerations.

(Also Read: PM Denkov Optimistic About Adoption of Constitutional Revisions)

The introduction of the STI policy review marks a significant step forward for Seychelles in acknowledging and addressing the role of science, technology, and innovation in the country’s development. By embracing these elements and adapting to the rapidly changing environment, Seychelles is positioning itself to overcome challenges and take full advantage of the opportunities that come with being a developing island state in the modern world.