The Prime Minister of Mozambique today called on young researchers from the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) to propose “practical and concrete solutions” to develop member states and improve the lives of their communities.
“We urge you to ensure that your research is not limited to academic and theoretical reports. It should propose practical solutions that contribute to the social and economic improvement of communities, thus promoting sustainable and inclusive development in our countries,” said Prime Minister Maria Benvinda Levi.
The statement was made during the opening of the IV CPLP Young Researchers Conference on Africa, held in Maputo until Friday under the theme: “Cultural Diversity, Digital Innovation, and Ancestral Knowledge: Building Sustainable Futures in Africa.”
Levi noted that the meeting comes at a time of heightened challenges due to extreme weather events, including heavy rains, floods, and other climate phenomena that have impacted the economic and social fabric of CPLP countries. She urged participants to use science, technology, and innovation to propose concrete solutions to these challenges.
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“We count on the active participation of academia and research institutions, which should not be just theoretical knowledge laboratories,” said the Mozambican leader, emphasizing the role of science in addressing the needs of the Portuguese-speaking community.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the challenges posed by the growing use of artificial intelligence, advocating for responsible use of new technologies in development processes.
“As a government, we will continue to invest in strengthening scientific research, technological development, and innovation, with the ultimate goal of promoting efficient and sustainable solutions that continuously improve community living conditions,” Levi added.
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Cristina Molares D’Abril, President of the CPLP Young Researchers Meeting Association (EJICPLP) on Africa, called for greater scientific integration among Lusophone countries and emphasized science as a key driver of transformation.
“So far, we have implemented policies without science. It hasn’t worked. Why not take the risk and put science to our advantage?” she said.
The conference gathers over 1,200 participants, more than 40 speakers from CPLP countries and the diaspora, and approximately 60 young researchers selected to present their work, marking growth compared to previous editions held in Lisbon and Luanda.
