The Fundamental Role of Science and Technology in International Development : An Imperative for the U.S. Agency for International Development

In October 2003 the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the National Research Council (NRC) entered into a cooperative agreement.

The agreement called for the NRC to examine selected aspects of U.S. foreign assistance activities-primarily the programs of the USAID-that have benefited or could benefit from access to strong science, technology, and medical capabilities in the United States or elsewhere.

After considering the many aspects of the role of science and technology (S&T) in foreign assistance, the study led to the publication of The Fundamental Role of Science and Technology in International Development.

In the book special attention is devoted to partnerships that involve the USAID together with international, regional, U.S. governmental, and private sector organizations in fields such as heath care, agriculture and nutrition, education and job creation, and energy and the environment.

This book explores specific programmatic, organizational, and personnel reforms that would increase the effective use of S&T to meet the USAID's goals while supporting larger U.S. foreign policy objectives. Table of ContentsFront MatterSummary1 The Changing Context for Foreign Assistance2 Five Development Challenges3 Strengthening the Science and Technology Capacity of DevelopingCountries4 Capabilities of USAID to Use Science and Technology Effectively5 USAID'S Coordination with Other U.S.

Government Departments andAgenciesEpilogueAppendix A.

Statement of Task from Cooperative AgreementAppendix B.

Biographies of Committee MembersAppendix C. Field Visit Panel Members and Key OrganizationsContactedAppendix D.

USAID Offices Consulted in WashingtonAppendix E. Other Organizations ConsultedAppendix F. Report to Congress: Health-Related Research andDevelopment Activities at USAIDAppendix G.

USAID Agricultural and Natural Resources ManagementResearch Priorities-Desktop ReviewAppendix H.

Examples of USAID Support for Science andTechnology-Related ProgramsAppendix I.

Recent National Academies Reports Relevant to Scienceand Technology in DevelopmentAppendix J.

Recent National Academies Activities Relevant toScience and Technology in DevelopmentAppendix K.

Pakistan-U.S. Science and Technology CooperativeProgram 2005 Projects Selected for Joint FundingAppendix L.

Description of USAID Recruitment Programs