Africa Science Week

PROJECT TITLE: AFRICA SCIENCE WEEK

Organization: NEXT EINSTEIN FORUM

TIMELINE : 2018 and 2019

Place: Banjul, The Gambia

Role: STRATEGY CHAIR AND AMBASSADOR
Africa Science Week (ASW) is a flagship annual initiative of the Next Einstein Forum (NEF) that celebrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) across Africa through country-led events and community engagements. The programme promotes scientific excellence, innovation, and entrepreneurship while inspiring the next generation of African scientists, innovators, and changemakers. Held simultaneously in several African countries, ASW convenes students, researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, educators, and the public through interactive exhibitions, innovation showcases, school outreach, policy dialogues, and mentorship sessions.
As Strategy Chair and Country Ambassador for The Gambia, I led the development and implementation of the strategic framework guiding all ASW activities in the country. I organized and facilitated high-impact events designed to promote science and innovation among young people and the broader public. My role involved engaging policymakers, academia, private sector leaders, and civil society actors to strengthen the national science and innovation ecosystem. I also spearheaded visibility and communication efforts to showcase the contributions of local scientists, STEM champions, and entrepreneurs. Additionally, I built strategic partnerships across sectors to expand the reach and sustainability of science and innovation initiatives in The Gambia.
This initiative significantly raised public awareness of science and technology, enhanced youth participation in STEM, and contributed to the strengthening of national innovation ecosystems. It positioned The Gambia as part of a continental movement advancing Africa’s leadership in science, technology, and innovation.