🔎 About the Symposium

Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its scientific and innovation journey. The ability to lead in drug and vaccine development—a vision Rwanda has boldly embraced—depends on a critical mass of researchers skilled in discovery science and fundamental research.

This one-day symposium, organized by the Foresight Institute of Research and Translation (FIRAT) Rwanda, in collaboration with the University of Rwanda, OIC-COMSTECH, DrosAfrica, and partners, provides a unique platform to:

• Raise awareness on the role of discovery science in Africa’s innovation future.
• Showcase groundbreaking research from East and Central Africa.
• Strengthen collaboration between academia, industry, policymakers, and funders.
• Shape strategies for sustainable research capacity.

This event complements the INSTAL Africa initiative, which aims to train 200 African researchers by 2030, and supports Rwanda’s positioning as a hub for drug and vaccine innovation.

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🎯 Objectives

1. Highlight the strategic importance of discovery science for Africa’s development.
2. Foster collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders.
3. Showcase research through oral and poster presentations.
4. Link research to innovation pipelines in health, biotechnology, and beyond.
5. Generate policy recommendations for sustainable research ecosystems.

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📌 Theme & Sub-Themes

Strengthening the Discovery Science Ecosystem and Catalyzing Scientific Breakthroughs in Africa

Sub-Themes

1. Building Africa’s Discovery Science Infrastructure
2. Model Organisms in Biomedical Research
3. Training and Mentorship for Researchers
4. Translating Discovery into Health Innovation
5. International Collaborations for Scientific Excellence
6. Funding & Sustainability Strategies
7. Ethics, Policy, and Governance in Research
8. Discovery Science and Fundamental Research in the Era of Genomics and AI

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🎤 Programme Highlights

• Keynote Addresses:
• Plenary Sessions & Panels: Led by DrosAfrica, regional experts, policymakers, and industry leaders.
• Oral & Poster Presentations: By students and early-career researchers from East & Central Africa.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders, policymakers, and research collaborators.
• Young Scientist Awards: Recognition for outstanding presentations.

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👥 Who Can Attend?

This symposium is open to scientists, students, research institutions, policymakers, pharmaceutical & biotech companies, as well as international partners.

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🌟 Expected Outcomes

• Strengthened regional and continental commitment to discovery science and fundamental research.
• Enhanced partnerships between academia, industry, and policymakers.
• Increased visibility for sponsors and partners in African innovation.
• Actionable recommendations for advancing research and innovation.
• Recognition of young scientists through awards.

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💡 Sponsorship Opportunities

Sponsorship will support venue, logistics, international speakers, and young scientist awards. Sponsors will receive:

• Branding visibility at the symposium and in materials.
• Acknowledgment during sessions.
• Direct engagement with Africa’s scientific leadership community.