The intent is not only to increase the opportunities of African scientists on the continent but also provide opportunities to those based abroad to contribute further to Africa
The Medical Research Council (MRC) has partnered with leadership advisory firm Egon Zehnder, to support the growth and development of African scientists.
The partners say that senior African scientists based abroad could play a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of African leaders. This can be done by being inspirational role models and sharing expertise and international experience.
To better understand any barriers to African diaspora biomedical scientists increasing their research links to the continent, the partners will be exploring a number of questions. These include: What are the potential barriers to African biomedical scientists based abroad increasing their involvement with African research institutes and local African scientific talent? And what roles can MRC, and other funders, play in removing these barriers, for example facilitating dual appointments, supporting satellite labs?
Egon Zehnder will carry out in-depth interviews with 15 top African biomedical scientists from around the world. In addition an online survey which will be open to all.
The MRC said that the results of project will inform the direction of further activities as well as indicating whether partnerships with other institutions will be required to address gaps. The MRC added that the intent is not only to increase the opportunities of African scientists on the continent but also provide opportunities to those based abroad to contribute further to Africa.
Meanwhile an Ipsos-World Economic Forum survey, conducted in 27 countries, has found that 65% of all adults think that, in their country, someone’s race, ethnicity, or national origin influences their employment opportunities. The online survey was conducted between 22 January and 5 February 2021 with 20,000 adults responding.
The survey was released as Black History Month in the US drew to its close. Addressing the challenge to drive systemic and sustainable change on racial justice, the World Economic Forum has launched the Partnership for Racial Justice in Business Initiative. Its aim is to coordinate commitments to set new global standards for racial equality in business.
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