The launch of a Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) initiative is taking place in Alexandria, Egypt, at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, December 14-15. Over 100 participants from 23 countries are attending the launch, including scientists, inventors, financiers, and policy-makers. The initiative will focus on countries in the Middle East, Africa, and Central, South, and Southeast Asia.
The GIST initiative is another example of the type of science and technology engagement President Obama proposed in his speech in Cairo in June 2009. The initiative will be implemented by CRDF Global, an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to international science cooperation and technology commercialization. The Alexandria launch serves as a call-to-action for technology development and innovation through partnerships that will build on successful experiences and create new opportunities.