The sixth meeting of the Islamic Development Bank Advisory Panel on Science and Technology will engage in a two-day discussion held at IDB Group headquarters in Jeddah 20-21 Shawwal 1429H (20-21 October 2008) to focus on strategies and policies related to science and technology for further development of member countries

The 8-panel member of prominent scientists will include former Saudi Minister of Industry Dr. Hashem Abdallah Yamani, Chairman of Higher Education Commission in Pakistan Atta-ur-Rahman and African Regional Center for Technology Executive Direcetor Dr. Ousmane Kane. The meeting will discuss the ways in which science and technology can be utilized to aid in the alleviation of poverty in member countries.

The Islamic Development Bank initiated a new policy in 1426H (2005) which will consider approving at least 10 percent of a member country’s annual programs in the science and technology sector. The Bank supports scientific and technological development in member countries in three distinct areas: assistance to build physical facilities and infrastructures; forge collaboration and exchange of knowledge through activities such as short-term exchange of experts, on-the-job training, and conferences; and financing research and development projects by designated centers of excellence.