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Lively debate marks IDRC’s 40th anniversary celebration hosted by the regional office in Dakar. Photo IDRC: J. Gérard

As IDRC marks its 40^th anniversary this year, activities are rolling out in Canada and around the world to celebrate four decades of  promoting development through knowledge and innovation.

Our 40^th anniversary coincides with the 50^th anniversary of independence for 15 West and Central African countries. IDRC is renewing its commitment to African research by sponsoring several events on the continent that underscore our determination to support the next generation of African researchers.

IDRC’s regional office for West and Central Africa kicked off its celebrations on February 5 in Dakar at the annual meeting of the IDRC Council of Regional Advisors for West and Central Africa. A new book from the Council, African Researchers and Decision-Makers: Building Synergy for Development, an IDRC co-publication, was launched at the meeting with a special presentation and debate.

More than 160 people attended the event, which was organized in partnership with the Librarie Clairafrique-Université de Dakar. Guests included HE Jean-Pierre Bolduc, Canada’s ambassador to Senegal, Mr Ivan Roberts, head of the Canadian International Development Agency’s program in Senegal, Mrs Ndèye Arame Boye Faye, Director of Scientific Research in Senegal’s Ministry of Scientific Research, and Mr Alassane Dialy Ndiaye, Vice-President of Senegal’s Academy of Science and Technology.

The debate was further enlivened by the presence of students, researchers, university teachers, NGO representatives, and technical and financial partners, as well as journalists from the local and regional press.

2010-02-17

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