In a significant step towards fostering regional collaboration and innovation, a Mission of Experts convened in Mauritius from April 15 to 19, 2024, as part of the Policy Support Facility (PSF) service, “Towards the Development of a Regional Research and Innovation Strategy for the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC).” This PSF service, requested by the IOC, aims to craft a comprehensive Regional Research and Innovation Strategy (RRIS) tailored to the unique needs and challenges of the Indian Ocean region.
A Collaborative Endeavor for Innovation
The PSF service is designed to leverage science and technology to address the region’s distinct challenges, with a focus on transforming the Indian Ocean into a hub of expertise, fostering business partnerships, and enhancing mobility between academia and industry. This ambitious strategy also aligns with broader global goals, including the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2024 (STISA), and the African Union’s Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.
Knowledge Sharing and Stakeholder Engagement
The mission in Mauritius featured two key components: a Knowledge Sharing Meeting (KSM) and individual national stakeholder meetings. From April 15 to 17, 25 participants from Comoros, Seychelles, Mauritius, Réunion, and Madagascar, along with IOC representatives, gathered for the KSM. This meeting was critical in exchanging knowledge, sharing international best practices, and gathering input to shape the RRIS.
During the three days of the KSM, discussions centered on adapting to climate change, addressing regional challenges, and harnessing science and technology to drive innovation. The participants engaged in a series of workshops and interactive sessions, including the World Café format, to identify regional innovation requirements, priorities, and strategies. This collaborative approach ensured that diverse perspectives were incorporated into the strategy’s formulation.
National Stakeholder Meetings
Following the KSM, on April 18 and 19, the experts conducted meetings with approximately 20 key stakeholders in Mauritius. These included representatives from the University of Technology Mauritius (UTM), the Mauritius Oceanography Institute (MOI), the Rajiv Gandhi Science Center (RGSC), the Polytechnic School of Mauritius, and Agri-Hub de Ferney. These meetings were instrumental in gathering insights on the current state of research and innovation (R&I) within Mauritius and fostering collaboration with local institutions.
Strategic Focus on Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Innovation
The IOC, supported by the PSF and the European Union, is committed to developing a strategy that addresses the critical challenges posed by climate change and digital transformation. The RRIS aims to make the region a center of expertise in ocean and climate-related research, with a strong emphasis on creating sustainable, inclusive innovation ecosystems.
The mission also highlighted the importance of regional cooperation and the need to leverage the potential of the diaspora and international partnerships to advance the innovation agenda in the Indian Ocean region. The insights gained from the mission will contribute significantly to shaping a dynamic and inclusive RRIS that aligns with the specific priorities of each member country.
Moving Forward
Dr. Ibrahim Norbert Richard, OACPS Assistant Secretary-General, emphasised the collaborative spirit of the initiative, stating, “Together, we have the opportunity to build a dynamic roadmap that reflects not only the collective aspirations of the region but also the unique challenges and specific priorities of each member country.”
Similarly, Prof. Vêlayoudom Marimoutou, Secretary-General of the IOC, underlined the strategic importance of the initiative, noting, “The IOC aims to complement its operational arsenal with a R&I strategy, transforming the region into a pool of expertise on all island-related issues.”
The mission’s outcomes are expected to lay a robust foundation for the RRIS, driving the region toward sustainable development and innovation excellence. The strategy will serve as a critical guide for national R&I agendas and contribute significantly to the achievement of the SDGs.
Conclusion
As this initiative progresses, ongoing collaboration and input from regional stakeholders will be essential in shaping a prosperous and innovative future for the Indian Ocean region. The successful integration of these efforts into the RRIS will be key to addressing the region’s most pressing challenges and ensuring long-term sustainable development.
