ADVOCATE FOR THE REVOLUTION OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN AFRICA

Advocate for the Revolution of Science and Technology (ARSTA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the development of intensive programs in promoting science and technology that genuinely serve the interest of African countries. In order to enable the science and technology sector contribute to genuine development in Africa, ARSTA recognizes the need to stop the vicious cycle of poor science education, backward science and technology, and economic subservience brought about by historical and socio-economic conditions.

The organization consists of highly motivated students and professionals who currently reside outside the country in the U.S, Canada, France and UK. They are passionate about developing solid science and engineering programs that will enhance the learning of science and engineering courses by African students. They are committed to create a foundation to revolutionize and empower Africa, creating exciting opportunities, putting enormous premium on creative and innovative skills. Providing hands-on learning environment where the principles of calculus, chemistry, physics, technology, computer, economics and engineering are taught through activities that fill the classroom with a cacophony of nailing, robotic design, laboratory works. The result: the kids learn to apply academic principles to the real world, think strategically and develop problem solving skills.

The Executive Director, Miss Blessing Oyeleye stated that Africa has most often adopted a short term view to globalization and has continued to rely on short term activities and solutions. As a result the continent has failed to invest in science, technology and innovation as sources and drivers of economic growth. Africa’s continued low interest in science and technology is also manifested in the declining quality of science and engineering education at all levels. Student interest in science and engineering subjects at primary, secondary and tertiary levels is also declining. The continent is also loosing some of its best scientific and technical expertise to other regions of the world.

The summer-engineering program is set to kick off in 2008 in Nigeria and Ghana. It involves a lot of planning said Miss Oyeleye, because we are trying to bring in the best technical African students we’ve got, role models to our youths, and build partnerships with local educational agencies, governments and corporations in the country. Technology is fundamental to poverty reduction and economic transformation of Africa. Africa has been involved in a vicious cycle of poverty, stunted educational growth and a serious lack of innovation, creativity and development. It is undoubtedly imperative for the African to play a major role in the science and technological advancement currently taking place in the global marketplace.