Inclusive science is reshaping the landscape of research and innovation by embracing diversity and equity. This approach is not just about broadening participation; it’s about integrating unique perspectives, cultural backgrounds, and varied experiences into the scientific process.
By championing inclusivity, the scientific community is not only advancing its own field but also making strides toward a more equitable and inclusive society.
A keynote address titled Inclusive Science Education for Regional Advancement by Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC) Haji Mohammad Nazri bin Haji Mohammad Yusof highlighted such activities carried out by the ASEAN Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation (COSTI).
INCLUSIVE SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
“Under COSTI,” said the permanent secretary, “the ASEAN Plan of Action on Science, Technology and Innovation (APASTI) serves as a guiding document for our endeavours, steering collaborative research efforts towards inclusivity and diversity.
“This comprehensive framework ensures that our collective research initiatives address the varied needs and harness the potential of all ASEAN nations. Through this plan, we aim to cultivate a research ecosystem that is not only robust but also reflective of our diverse populations and environments,” said Haji Mohammad Nazri.
APASTI’s five key strategic thrusts aim at collaboration, mobility, innovation and public awareness.
Collaborative research under APASTI aims to pool resources, knowledge, and expertise from ASEAN member states to tackle common challenges.
Projects addressing climate change’s impact on biodiversity are designed to be inclusive, drawing on local knowledge and indigenous practices to create culturally relevant solutions. This inclusive approach not only advances scientific knowledge but also fosters practical, sustainable solutions.
COSTI has also emphasised grassroots innovation through platforms like the ASEAN-India Grassroots Innovation Forum, encouraging local communities to take part in the innovation process. This approach has led to the development of sustainable technologies and improved access to essential services, addressing a wide range of issues from healthcare to environmental sustainability.
Another initiative, the UL Research Institutes-ASEAN-United States Science Prize for Women, recognises and empowers women scientists in the ASEAN region, promoting gender inclusivity in scientific research.
The programme has spotlighted the work of female scientists, encouraging more women to enter science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, and underscoring the need for gender-responsive policies in science.
ADDRESSING EQUITY IN ACCESS TO SCIENTIFIC RESOURCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
As ASEAN navigates inclusive science, addressing equity in access to scientific resources and infrastructure is paramount. This ensures advancements and resources are accessible to all, particularly underrepresented and underserved communities.
In Southeast Asia, disparities in access to scientific infrastructure, such as laboratory facilities, technological tools, and even basic Internet, can impede research growth. To address this, ASEAN has launched programmes like the ASEAN Science, Technology, and Innovation Fund (ASTIF), which aims to distribute scientific resources more equitably.
Addressing equity goes beyond physical resources – it also involves building capacity through training and skill development in local communities. This empowers them to manage scientific equipment and actively participate in research and development.
Partnerships and collaborations among ASEAN member states and external partners also play a key role in promoting knowledge exchange and resource sharing.
The ASEAN High Performance Computing (HPC) Taskforce is a strategic initiative advancing HPC capabilities in the ASEAN region, promoting collaboration and enhancing the capacity to use HPC resources to tackle complex research challenges.
The task force has made significant progress in building HPC infrastructure and facilitating research collaborations.
By fostering access to HPC resources, the task force contributes to inclusive science, ensuring that researchers from diverse backgrounds can participate in cutting-edge initiatives. This approach highlights the importance of investing in digital infrastructure and human capital to create an inclusive scientific environment in ASEAN. – ROKIAH MAHMUD
