TECHNOLOGY PARTNERSHIPS SEMINAR

February 20, 2006

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The February, 2006, U..S. Islamic World Forum presented an opportunity to discuss Science and Technology (S&T) topics within the context of Islamic countries' priorities and their potential for serving as a foundation for cooperation between appropriate U.S. and Islamic country organizations.  The meeting of  Science and Technology experts  identified priorities for cooperation, and agreed to develop specific proposals for future consideration. Priorities included distance-learning initiatives, activities to strengthen current education systems, teacher training, international exchanges, particularly in technology and applied science, and encouraging public dialogue to foster  science and technology awareness and on science issues of national importance.  Also considered were programs to cooperatively train students in advanced areas of science and engineering with an emphasis on creating research and teaching environments that attract graduates to pursue their careers at home.  Future meetings will also consider the merits of supporting regional S&T centers-of-excellence as may serve transboundary interests, i.e., multi-lateral technical exchanges on critical issues such as water, energy, health, data and information exchange, etc.  Job creation and technical skill development were recognized as priority objectives.  Implementation will proceed under the umbrella of partnering efforts between the private sector, academia, foundations and cooperating government organizations.  

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