TechnoPark signs MoU with Arab Science and Technology Foundation
TechnoPark, the science and technology facilitator of Economics Zones World today announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Arab Science and Technology Foundation (ASTF), the only Pan Arab non-profit and independent organization for Science and Technology, on the establishment of the new ‘IZDIHAR Programme’.
To lead the region towards a value-based knowledge society, the organisations have agreed to develop the ‘IZDIHAR programme’ and cooperate with each other to promote scientific research and development via various projects and activities. Among other things, the two parties will build a science and scientist’s database and network and develop initiatives for technology transfer, commercialization and investment.
The parties intend to bring together scientists from inside and outside the Arab world with the aim of utilizing local and expatriate expertise by organizing scientific conferences, workshops, and specialized seminars, which focus on the most up-to-date scientific advancements related to areas of mutual interests.
The agreement signed by Mr. Hamad Al Hashemi, Managing Director, TechnoPark and Dr. Abdalla A. Alnajjar, President, Arab Science and Technology Foundation will facilitate the development of national programs and projects capable of assimilating the scientific advances of the 21st century and interacting positively with the Western and Eastern experiences of scientific development.
Mr. Al Hashemi said:
‘We are very pleased to partner with the ASTF and utilize the expertise of their influential cluster of distinguished Arab scientists with outstanding scientific achievements that are well known globally. We are confident that this alliance will create a greater dynamic for research and scientific progress in the region that will be of immense benefit to researchers, scientists, businesses, entrepreneurs and the wider community.’
Mr. Al Hashemi added: ‘Our region has a rich history of scientific enrichment and discovery and our former glory can be restored. The way forward lies in empowering the existing human capital of scholars and scientists with facilities that augment research and development to greater heights that will secure our position as ‘thinkers’ in the world who create revolutionary scientific and technological solutions.’
Referring to the association with Techno Park, Dr. Alnajjar stated: ‘We have a vision which we can realize together with the assistance of TechnoPark that provides the infrastructure to make this happen. Scientific know-how and advanced technology constitute a strategic source of Arab strength, which could be leveraged if efforts unite and goals crystallize. Any form of support for research and development in the Arab world represents a step further along the pathway of Arab future.’
The Arab Science and Technology Foundation is an independent, nongovernmental, non-profit regional and international organization. Scientists and researchers from inside and outside the Arab world as well as representatives of Arab and international science centers and organizations have contributed to its establishment. It is based in Sharjah, UAE, and is seeking to set up branches and links in those Arab and world capitals that have scientific entities willing to participate in its activities.
