Driving national development through research

The second Science Days are underway at the Patsi University Center. This three-day event features discussions and debates aimed at reinforcing the role of research in the social and economic advancement of the Comoros.

This year, the Patsi University Center (Cup) is hosting its second annual Science Days, a three-day gathering that includes 15 conferences covering a variety of topics. Organized in partnership with the University of Comoros, the National Institute for Research in Agriculture, Fisheries, and the Environment (Inrape), and the National Center for Documentation and Scientific Research (Cndrs), this event fosters academic collaboration.

Running from November 5 to 7, the event also features exhibitors showcasing the expertise of students from Cup, Inrape, and Cndrs. The French Embassy in Moroni’s « Solidarity Fund for Innovative Projects (Fspi) » helped fund this event, enabling various activities at Cup, such as seminars on research methodology and scientific publishing.

In his welcoming address, Dr. Soiffaouidine Sidi, Director of the Center, highlighted the importance of these scientific meetings. The Science Days offer the University of Comoros an opportunity to support national development by providing evidence-based guidance on societal challenges. « Research allows us to present proposals to decision-makers on pressing societal issues », emphasized Dr. Soiffaouidine Sidi. He also distinguished the dual role of university researchers, stating, « We have two responsibilities : teaching courses and conducting research », which sets them apart from primary and secondary school educators.