IsDB launches new fund for SDG and refugee scientists

29 Nov 2018
  • IsDB launches new fund for SDG and refugee scientists

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and the World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) have today launched a $2.5m package to boost scientific capability for the developing world, boosting sustainability sciences and supporting refugee scientists.

 

His Excellency, Dr Bandar Hajjar, President of the IsDB, and Professor Murenzi, Executive Director the World Academy of Sciences, have launched the landmark programme to build capacity in sustainability science, to advance progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

The package will include:

 

  • The opportunity for refugee scientists to study and develop their research, through the TWAS Affiliates Programme. The initiative will support displaced and at risk scientists and researchers who have been displaced through conflict, persecution, or natural disasters.

 

  • 100 Postdoctoral Fellowships for young researchers from the IsDB’s least developed Member Countries, which will be redeemable at centres of excellence in developing countries. They will gain high level research training in key areas relevant to sustainability science.

 

  • New grants for joint research and technology transfer projects in IsDB member countries, focused on the SDGs.

 

  • High-level training workshops for over 100 policy makers, scientists and diplomats on science policy and diplomacy to enable better communications and policy making around science.

 

H.E. Dr Bandar said, “I have put the science and the SDGs at the heart of the Bank’s work, so today’s announcement is an important achievement. It will catalyse collaboration and bring a coordinated approach to sustainability challenges across the IsDB’s 57 member countries.”

 

Dr Hayat Sindi, Chief Adviser to the IsDB President for Science, Technology and Innovation, said, “As I scientist myself, I’m proud that the IsDB is able to support displaced scientists and researchers via enrolment the TWAS Affiliates Programme. This is a vitally important initiative.”

 

Dr Hayat Sindi is also responsible for the management and resource moblisation for the ISDB’s scholarship programme that supports around 15,000 undergraduate and post grad students across the IsDB member countries.

 

The IsDB believes in the transformative power of science, technology and innovation to generate solutions to the Sustainable Development Goals, and supports this agenda through through its Engage online platform and its $500m Transform Fund.

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