Professor Afework Kassu, Vice President for Research and Community Services, attends the annual Global-Knowledge Exchange Network (G-KEN) Conference in London
Professor Afework Kassu, Vice President for Research and Community Services, University of Gondar, attended the 3rd G-KEN Multidisciplinary Conference on November 23 and 24, 2013. The aim of the conference was to strengthen knowledge and build communication between new and established academicians, practitioners and researchers within Africa and abroad.
The conference organized discussions on “Exploring the Challenge and Opportunities for Inclusive Innovation and Sustainable Development” with the following five key themes:
- What is the role of new technology and innovation in promoting sustainable development in low-income economies?
- What are the weaknesses and strengths of the linkages of networks among governments, private sectors, universities, civil societies and communities to promote inclusive innovations for sustainable development?
- What is the role of FDI and development aid in knowledge transfer in tackling the challenges associated with science, technology, engineering and mathematics for inclusive innovations and sustainable development?
- How much has social innovation and entrepreneurship benefited economies in Africa to meeting the Millennium Developmental Goals (MDGs)?
- What is the role of grassroots innovation to transform predominately agricultural economies?
Professor Afework was able to attend the conference after responding to the conference coordinators’ inquiries to submit research papers and successfully fulfill all the criteria. Professor Afework has not only participated in the conference, but is also one of the panelists for the discussion.