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It’s Not STI: It’s ITS - The Role of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) in Africa’s Development Strategy

Norman Clark and Andy Frost

July 2015

Abstract

This working paper argues that the use of the term 'STI' (science, technology and innovation) as a proxy for innovative activity is not only conceptually wrong it is also misleading. This is particularly an issue in policy analysis for low-income countries (LICs) where it tends to support resource allocation to scientific institutions at the expense of more relevant development interventions affecting the economy as a whole. The paper focuses on recent sub-Saharan Africa regional science policy initiatives and uses a relevant DFID aid programme to provide empirical support.

Read IKD Working Paper 78 - It’s Not STI: It’s ITS.

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