Dr Ahmed Amara Konaté, Associate Professor and General Director of Research at the Higher Institute of Mines and Geology of Boké, Guinea, has been selected as a mentee in the highly competitive Science Advice Skills Development Program (SASDP-3). This prestigious program is designed to equip African researchers with the knowledge and skills needed to provide science-based policy advice to governments and other key stakeholders.
Organized by INGSA-Africa in collaboration with the Future Africa Institute at the University of Pretoria, the SASDP-3 program aims to foster science advisory capacity across Africa. It plays a critical role in empowering researchers to translate their scientific findings into actionable policy that addresses some of the continent's most pressing challenges, such as sustainable development, environmental protection, and public health.
Dr Konaté was selected from a pool of outstanding candidates for his impressive research portfolio and demonstrated commitment to science advice. His groundbreaking work in artisanal gold mining (AGM) in West Africa has been recognized for addressing the environmental and societal impacts of traditional mining techniques, providing innovative and sustainable solutions that benefit local communities.
Dr Konaté will participate in a series of mentoring sessions, workshops, and activities designed to develop his skills in providing science advice to policymakers. The programme will culminate in the submission of a policy document, which Dr Konaté will develop in collaboration with his mentor.
Upon receiving the notification, Dr Konaté expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to further refine his skills in science advice. “This mentorship opportunity is an exciting next step in my career. It will help me bridge the gap between scientific research and policy implementation, ensuring that my work has a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of people in West Africa and beyond,” he stated.
Dr Konaté’s research, supported by the African Research Initiative for Scientific Excellence (ARISE) programme, focuses on improving artisanal gold mining techniques in Guinea and Mali to reduce environmental harm and improve safety for miners. Through his participation in the SASDP-3 program, he aims to enhance his ability to advise governments on how to develop policies that promote sustainable and responsible mining practices.
ARISE is an innovative research and innovation (R&I) support programme of the African Academy of Sciences (AAS), implemented by the AAS in partnership with the African Union (AU) and the European Commission (EU). Founded on the AU-EU High-Level Policy Dialogue on Science, Technology, and Innovation. ARISE is dedicated to supporting outstanding African researchers, empowering them to drive innovation and knowledge creation across the continent. As an ARISE grantee, Dr. Konaté has received funding and mentorship to conduct his research, focusing on the intersection of science, policy, and sustainable development.
The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) is a pan-African organisation dedicated to advancing science, technology, and innovation (STI) across the continent. Established in 1985, the AAS strives to promote sustainable development, strengthen scientific excellence, and address Africa’s socio-economic challenges through evidence-based research, capacity building, and policy advocacy.