Overseas scientific capacity building initiatives in Africa - Are anticipated gains realised and/or sustained?

Abstract

This paper, through a case study of Zimbabwe’s SIRDC, critiques overseas scientific capacity building programmes relative to set goals and advocates for additional policy steps to concretise the noble initiative. Higher degree studies overseas are needed but more should be done for the expert to retain to base and stay for the benefit of African industries and respective economies. The operating ambience in Africa must be improved in terms of state-of-the art equipment in laboratories, resourcing for maintaining professional networks and study tours, remuneration that matches their status within the region and an appreciation of their contribution by industry and society. Execution of multi-country projects may mitigate skills flight as the international flair is maintained to some extent.