The National Commission for UNESCO (Natcom) on Thursday began a two-day stakeholders workshop for the development of a Science and Technology Policy at the Corinthia Atlantic Hotel, Banjul.

The preparatory meeting was organised within the framework of 2007 - 2009 action of of Natcom, with backing of the Islamic Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ISESCO).

Delivering a statement at the opening of the meeting, Abdoulie Sallah, the secretary of state for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, said the forum prepares the ground for the application of science and technology for economic and industrial growth in The Gambia. SoS Sallah said this will also address the energy, environmental, agricultural and health challenges facing the country.

He observed that twin disciplines of science and technology have proven to be useful in improving human condition worldwide, including evolution of societies, food production, health service delivery, energy production, economic growth, communication, and construction.

The Science and Technology SoS said the outcome of the workshop will enable the country to develop a policy that will respond to the challenges confronting the nation.

He finally challenged the participants  to take the two-day meeting seriously and thanked the national commission for UNESCO and ISESCO for the bold move.

Sukia Bojang, the secretary general of Natcom, reaffirmed the commission's preparedness in developing a Science and Technology Policy for national development.

Ms Bojang thanked the consultant, Dr Mohsin Ullah Khan for preparing the ground.

Other speakers at the opening ceremony included Mohsin Ullah Khan, ISESCO international consultant.