The Women for Africa Foundation (FMxA) has unveiled the commencement of the 9th Edition of the Science by Women program, a pioneering initiative aimed at promoting African women's leadership in scientific research and technology transfer. This landmark program seeks to empower women researchers and scientists, enabling them to tackle the significant challenges faced by the African continent in crucial areas such as health and biomedicine, sustainable agriculture and food security, as well as water, energy, and climate change.

With a focus on fostering diverse and interdisciplinary approaches to research and innovation, the program will grant 28 fellowship awards specifically to African women scientists. By supporting and nurturing their research endeavours, the initiative aims to leverage their expertise in combating the far-reaching effects of the pandemic on the African population.

African women are disproportionately affected by the consequences of uncontrolled development, compounded by social, structural, and economic barriers that hinder their ability to address the continent's pressing challenges. The gender disparities in science and technology, both in the public and private sectors, have far-reaching implications for the entire African population. Bridging this gap is crucial for achieving long-term progress and equitable growth, which is essential for the balanced and sustainable development of African countries.

The overarching objective of the Science by Women program is to empower African women researchers to play a leading role in Africa's transition to a knowledge-based and innovation-led economy. By conducting impactful research, these women can contribute to the development of products, processes, services, and technologies that have a positive impact on the lives of people across the continent.

In pursuit of this ambitious goal, FMxA has formed partnerships with renowned Spanish Centers of Excellence known for their exceptional scientific research and international recognition. This collaboration ensures that the program maintains a high standard of excellence across various scientific disciplines.

Through the Science by Women program, FMxA will offer visiting senior research fellowships to African women scientists, providing them with valuable opportunities to enhance their skills, broaden their knowledge, and collaborate with leading Spanish research institutions. These fellowships will enable the recipients to conduct cutting-edge research, access state-of-the-art facilities, and benefit from the mentorship of renowned experts in their respective fields.

The deadline for submitting research proposals is set for September 30, 2023. Applicants are encouraged to focus on research areas aligned with the program's objectives, such as health and biomedicine, sustainable agriculture and food security, and water, energy, and climate change.

The Science by Women program has already witnessed significant success in previous editions, with many African women researchers making noteworthy contributions to their respective fields. By continuing to invest in the talents and potential of African women in science, FMxA aims to drive sustainable development, foster innovation, and improve the overall well-being of the African population. This initiative represents a crucial step towards empowering African women to lead transformative change in the field of scientific research, paving the way for a brighter future for the continent.

Article by RB Correspodent

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