Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has urged African nations to aggressively prioritise investment in research-intensive universities, science,
has urged African nations to aggressively prioritise investment in research-intensive universities, science, and technology to unlock sustainable economic growth and achieve true economic sovereignty across the continent.
Speaking on Sunday during the closing panel of the 12th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa, held in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, Jonathan warned that Africa can no longer afford to remain a passive consumer of foreign technologies. Instead, he argued, the continent must position itself as an active producer and exporter of knowledge and innovation.
Addressing African leaders, policymakers, and international stakeholders, the former president stressed that the continent’s ability to create productive jobs for its rapidly growing youth population hinges on its capacity to translate academic research into viable industrial and commercial ventures. Jonathan described research-intensive universities as critical engines of national development, highlighting their pivotal role in generating knowledge, conducting scientific research, and training advanced skills ”Africa’s transformation and economic sovereignty must be built on African knowledge, driven by African ingenuity, and sustained by African enterprise,” Jonathan declared during the panel discussion.
He pointed to Asian and global economic success stories—specifically India, Singapore, and South Korea—as clear evidence that sustained state investment in scientific and technological infrastructure can transform developing economies into global industrial powerhouses. He said African governments must learn from these nations by channelling dedicated funding into science, engineering, digital technologies, and applied research.
N500b offer to split S’South votes claim false, baseless, says Jonathan He noted that closer ties between higher institutions and industry would ensure research findings directly yield homegrown solutions, spur new commercial enterprises, and generate employment opportunities tailored to Africa’s unique socio-economic challenges. Highlighting the continent’s demographic advantage, Jonathan emphasised that Africa’s large youth population is its most valuable resource for long-term transformation.
However, he cautioned that this potential can only be realised if governments deliberately create the enabling environment for young people to acquire advanced technical skills and pursue entrepreneurial innovation. He called on leaders to equip the younger generation with the tools needed not only to participate in the evolving global economy, but to influence its direction actively The Tana High-Level Forum is an annual platform that brings together African heads of state, experts, and civil society leaders to address pressing security, governance, and development challenges facing the continent.
Jonathan’s submission firmly placed educational reform and scientific sovereignty at the heart of Africa’s security and economic agenda. Abuja doctor reveals a unique way to permanently cure weak erection, small and shameful manhood, and infertility issues without side effects within a short period. Click now to see!! NEWS UPDATE: Nigerians can now earn as much as $15,000- $25,000 with premium domains.
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