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The World Bank's Support for Science and Technology.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|January 18, 1985
Summary
The World Bank significantly supports developing countries' scientific and technological growth through substantial investments in research, education, and appropriate technology. It is currently reassessing its strategy as aid funding diminishes.
Area of Science:
- Development Economics
- Science and Technology Policy
- International Aid
Background:
- The World Bank is the world's largest aid-granting agency.
- Its investments significantly impact developing countries' scientific and technological advancement.
- The Bank's role in this sector has been substantial yet often overlooked.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the World Bank's contributions to scientific and technological development in developing nations.
- To detail the scope and focus of the Bank's investments in science and technology.
- To examine the Bank's evolving approach in response to changing aid landscapes.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of World Bank financial investments in science and technology sectors.
- Review of Bank-supported research programs and training initiatives.
- Examination of the Bank's strategic reevaluation of its role in development aid.
Main Results:
- In fiscal year 1984, the Bank invested $15.5 billion, focusing on appropriate technology and local development.
- Since 1980, substantial funds were allocated to agricultural research ($0.5 billion) and scientific/technological education ($1 billion).
- The Bank supports diverse research areas including agriculture, health sciences, construction, sanitation, energy, and traffic management, alongside technological policy training.
Conclusions:
- The World Bank plays a critical, though often unrecognized, role in advancing science and technology in developing countries.
- Its financial and programmatic support is diverse, covering essential areas for development.
- Facing dwindling aid funds, the World Bank is actively reassessing its strategies for science and technology support.
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