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Developing a diversity, equity and inclusion compass to guide scientific capacity strengthening efforts in Africa
PLOS Glob Public Health
This article discusses the creation of a tool called the “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Compass” designed to navigate and guide efforts aimed at enhancing scientific capacity in Africa. Scientific capacity strengthening involves improving the skills, resources, and infrastructure necessary for effective research and innovation.
The DEI Compass is a unique guide that emphasizes three key principles:
- Diversity: This refers to fostering inclusivity by encouraging the participation and representation of individuals from various backgrounds, including different ethnicities, genders, and cultural perspectives.
- Equity: The compass aims to ensure fairness and impartiality in scientific capacity building, addressing existing disparities and promoting equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background.
- Inclusion: Inclusion involves creating an environment where everyone feels valued and has a sense of belonging. The DEI Compass seeks to actively involve diverse voices in decision-making processes and scientific endeavors.
The development of this tool is particularly relevant for Africa, where scientific capacity is essential for addressing local challenges and promoting sustainable development. The DEI Compass acts as a guide for organizations and institutions involved in scientific capacity building, helping them adopt practices that are fair, inclusive, and reflective of the diverse talent present in the region.
The significance of this work lies in its potential to transform the landscape of scientific research and innovation in Africa by ensuring that capacity-building efforts are not only effective but also contribute to a more inclusive and equitable scientific community. This, in turn, can lead to more comprehensive and impactful solutions to the unique challenges faced by the continent.
Disclaimer: This lay summary was generated by AI and has not been approved by any of the authors yet.