Shaping National Science and Technology Base with Policy: A Case Study of Gambia National Science and Research Policy (2006-2010)

Abstract

This paper evaluated the contributions of science and research policy to the development of creative and innovative research and the science and technology base of a nation. Using case study strategy of inquiry, it addressed the research question of whether the science and research policies of the Gambia (2006-2010) could significantly shape the science, technology and innovation base of the nation through mediating effects on scientific activities. In contributing to empirical discussions in literature on policy implications for scientific activities, the paper suggests, first, that using public policies, research institutions including universities, could be strengthened to expand and improve national science and technology base. Public policies that foster scientific linkages and collaborations could contribute in building appropriate research competences of scientists, encourage the introduction of new and innovative ideas, and generally expand the national science and technology base. Second, the paper argued that in low income countries such as the Gambia with limited funds for research, the absence of a national science policy framework could lead to donor rather than demand driven research agendas, as research and innovative efforts would produce little research outcomes and necessary technologies to expand the national science and technology base.

Keywords: Science and technology, policy, innovation, scientific performance, higher education.