Introduction to the Initiative

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has partnered with Okayama University in Japan to enhance the skills and capabilities of young female researchers from developing nations. This initiative specifically targets women working in the fields of science, technology, and innovation, providing them with valuable research opportunities.

Details of the Young Female Scientist Programme

This specialized program, known as the Young Female Scientist Programme, invites eligible participants from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and various African nations. Researchers can immerse themselves in extensive joint research at Okayama University for a period ranging from 14 to 30 days.

Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, researchers have commenced their studies online as travel restrictions continue to hinder physical attendance.

Advancing Research with Digital Technologies

Shamika N. Sirimanne, UNCTAD’s director of technology and logistics, highlights the importance of digital tools in facilitating research amidst the pandemic: “We’ve been advocating for the use of digital technologies to facilitate learning since the beginning of this pandemic, and I’m happy to see that it’s in play in our joint programme.”

This program aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly target 9.5, which focuses on strengthening scientific research in developing countries.

Focus on Health-Related Research

Health science has emerged as a pivotal area of study among participants. For instance, Marileine Kemme, who heads La Vie Centre at Yaounde Central Hospital in Cameroon, is investigating the social and familial factors contributing to addictive behaviors in young people. In Cameroon, substance addiction has surged, affecting approximately 30.1% of the youth population, with significant implications for productivity and the economy.

Kemme remarked, “The programme offered me an opportunity to deeply reflect on addiction issues and drug use disorders in particular. It has enabled me to come up with strong and evidence-based recommendations for addiction management.”

Similarly, Maha Nasr, an associate professor at Ain Shams University in Egypt, is researching nanoparticles as a potential treatment for diseases such as cancer, the second leading cause of death globally. She expressed gratitude for her collaboration with Mitsunobu Kano, a professor specializing in pancreatic cancer treatment at Okayama University.

Visible Outcomes Amidst Challenges

On August 25, researchers from various countries, including Botswana, Ethiopia, and Madagascar, presented their preliminary findings during a virtual meeting, receiving constructive feedback from Okayama University professors.

Yasutomo Nasu, executive director for research at Okayama University, praised the participants: “The research quality was excellent, with up-to-date topics and significant results.” He further reflected on how the pandemic has fostered a new mode of global collaborative research.

Hirofumi Makino, president of Okayama University, voiced hopes that the university will become a nurturing environment for these researchers, inviting them back to pursue future projects.

Future Perspectives

The organizers of this initiative are actively monitoring the ongoing COVID-19 situation and are prepared to resume travel and in-person research collaborations as restrictions lift. The commitment to empowering women researchers continues to remain a priority for both UNCTAD and Okayama University.