In this seminar, we will explore promising avenues to improve the science policy interface in Africa. The seminar will cover multiple themes under this broad umbrella, including (a) reviews of productive modes of interfacing science and policy, (b) detailed explorations of the policy-making process in the region, including current obstacles to building strong S/P interfaces, (c) efforts to train the region’s scientists in policy communication, (d) the role of mass media, new media and civil society in the process, (e) the role of national and regional think-tanks, (f) advocacy efforts directed at policy-makers to promote an evidence-based culture.

This takes the position that, The Critical Success Factor in the Science to Policy Interface is the Overall Policy Process. By contrasting and comparing various national and corporate policy development & deployment processes, this presentation examines this perspectives via two questions

Is the scientific credibility tested when embedding theories & stratagems into policy? Is the Policy Development & Deployment Process itself scientifically credible?