Policy Support Facility (PSF) Service to the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC): Shaping the Future of Research and Innovation

The Policy Support Facility (PSF) service, in collaboration with the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC), is committed to developing a comprehensive Regional Research and Innovation Strategy (RRIS). This strategy is meticulously tailored to address the unique needs and challenges faced by the Indian Ocean region, leveraging science and technology to offer innovative and sustainable solutions.

Strategic Objectives

The RRIS is envisioned to:

• Foster a Dynamic Innovation Ecosystem: Create an environment conducive to innovation, encouraging the development of cutting-edge solutions that address local and regional challenges.
• Establish the Region as a Hub of Expertise: Transform the Indian Ocean region into a center of excellence for research and innovation on island-related issues, effectively tackling the societal and contemporary challenges of African and Indian Ocean island states.
• Build Strategic Partnerships: Enhance collaboration with the business sector, ensuring that research and development outcomes are effectively commercialized and have a tangible impact on the region’s economy.
• Promote Mobility Between Academia and Industry: Facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise between academic institutions and the business community, serving as a catalyst for regional development and innovation.
• Guide National R&I Agendas: Provide a strategic framework for the research and innovation agendas of IOC Member States, aligning them with regional priorities and international standards.
• Support Global Development Goals: Contribute to the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2024 (STISA-2024), and the African Union’s Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.

Implementation and Expertise

The PSF service is executed by a distinguished panel of international experts in collaboration with national teams from the IOC member states and the PSF team. This expert panel includes:

• Dr. Basudeb Chaudhuri (Chair): A seasoned development economist with extensive experience in growth, inequality, and public policy. Currently, a scientific advisor and research policy expert at the French Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, Dr. Chaudhuri has a robust background in managing European research infrastructures and partnerships, making his insights invaluable to the IOC’s strategic objectives.
• Dr. Bouchra Rahmouni (Rapporteur): An esteemed figure in innovation and academic excellence across Africa and Europe. As the Director of the Social Innovation Lab at the University Mohammed VI Polytechnic and an affiliated professor at Sciences Po Paris, Dr. Rahmouni brings a wealth of experience in promoting economic empowerment through innovation, making her a pivotal contributor to the RRIS.
• Manishi Maulloo (Expert): A seasoned innovation strategist with a strong background in digital transformation and strategic partnerships in the FinTech sector. Manishi’s leadership in establishing open innovation models and championing regulatory changes in Mauritius underscores his capacity to drive the RRIS towards creating a dynamic and sustainable innovation ecosystem.
• Dr. Ahmed Elmouna (Expert): Director General of the National Agency of Scientific Research and Innovation of Mauritania, Dr. Elmouna has a rich history of developing national research and innovation strategies. His expertise in physical chemistry, climate change adaptation, and international research collaborations adds a crucial dimension to the development of the RRIS.

Moving Forward

This collaborative effort between the IOC and the PSF, supported by a team of highly experienced experts, is dedicated to producing a high-quality strategy that not only addresses the immediate needs of the region but also sets the stage for long-term sustainable development. Through this initiative, the IOC region is poised to become a global leader in research and innovation, contributing significantly to regional and international development goals.

Publications