C J Matembo, Senior Information Officer, SIRDC

The eighth edition of the Research Council of Zimbabwe (RCZ) Science and Technology (S & T) Symposium held on 31 January and 1 February 2007 was an important event on the calendar of the scientific community in Zimbabwe. The University of Zimbabwe hosted the two-day event, which also drew participation from regional scientists. The Acting President, Cde Joice Mujuru, was the guest of honour at the ceremony. The Minister of Science and technology Development, Honourable Dr Olivia Muchena, other high-ranking government officials and eminent scientists also witnessed the occasion. The theme of the symposium was “Knowledge Based Development for Zimbabwe”.

Officially opening the symposium, the Acting President called upon scientists and the research fraternity to develop appropriate scientific and technological solutions that address the economic challenges facing the country. She also urged research institutions to forge and strengthen linkages with industry to ensure that research results are used for the economic benefit of the country. She implored researchers to market their research results beyond conferences and workshops, adding that Zimbabweans are famous for scholarly work and bringing out marvelous ideas that are never translated into reality.

Running parallel to the symposium was an exhibition by local companies showcasing homegrown technologies emphasizing import substitution and value addition to mitigate the effects of shortages of some products. Young scientists from Zimbabwean primary and high schools also took part in the exhibition.

The Acting President took advantage of this appropriate forum and launched the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) programme aimed at popularizing S & T and innovation and celebrating the country’s achievements, capabilities and talents in the science field.

Various high profile scientists and researchers won prestigious awards for their achievements and contribution to science. Dr Robbie Mupawose was presented with the RCZ Presidential Award for his outstanding contribution to R & D in agriculture. Dr Stuart Hargreaves, the Principal Director of the Department of Veterinary Services clinched a sectoral award in agriculture for his efforts in veterinary research and disease control. The Vice Chairperson of the SIRDC Board, Professor Sarah Feresu was honoured for her outstanding research efforts in the area of natural and environmental science. Some of the young scientists also won prizes for their ingenuity and outstanding displays.

The science laboratory and teaching equipment (SLATE) developed by SIRDC for effective teaching of science received special mention from the Acting President. The SLATE brand is now being commercialized under SirTech Investment, a joint venture company of SIRDC and the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe. Other locally developed products and interventions by some players in industry also received accolades from the Acting President.

SIRDC maintained a heavy presence at the symposium through displays and a large contingent of scientists and engineers some of whom presented thought provoking papers while others presided as session chairpersons and others served as rapporteurs.