2 - Science from Africa

Summary

The chapter examines the evolution and development of science, exploring the colonial and postcolonial features of African science. A host of themes are relevant here, including how science and scientific institutions were established and administered, what the challenges were, and how science was integrated into the development goals. Africa was under the colonial rule of several different countries which pursued dissimilar approaches to science and its application for development. The interests of the colonisers rather than those of the colonised were the predominant concern. Scientific research that was conducted in colonial Africa was mainly to support the economic and political interests of the colonisers and their administrations. Since independence, there have been efforts to strengthen science and national scientific systems in some parts of Africa. Structures meant for the creation of science and technology policies began to appear. Universities and research institutions were formed as part of building national science systems. However, there were challenges as well. Economic recession adversely affected scientific infrastructure, researchers, scientific output and development. Attempts to strengthen science were seen at various individual and collective levels that helped to integrate science and technology with national developmental needs.