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HistoryEvolution
In 1979, in Vienna, Austria an international conference was convened to review the state of science and technology in Africa and the convention articulated the need for technology policy research capacity in Africa.
Two networks, the Eastern Africa and Southern Africa Policy Studies Network (EATPS) and the West African Technology Policy Studies Network (WATPS), emerged in the 1980s to strengthen research skills of indigenous researchers, to stimulate interest in technology policy research and to help disseminate research results. EATPS and WATPS became the precursors of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, the organization poised to fill the void in science and technology policies in Africa.
ATPS started as a secretariat of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) in 1994. There has since been a transition from Focal Points to National Chapters under the leadership of national coordinators. This approach not only makes for demand driven programmes, but also establishes the ownership of the network from the bottom upward.
Autonomy
ATPS became autonomous on 1 October 2001, marking the birth of new institution with complete control of its programmes and its operations. The independence was marked with the relocation from IDRC to new offices situated on the 3rd Floor of the Chancery Building, Valley Road. With physical relocation, ATPS initiated and established firm links with the Kenyan government through the Ministry of Science and Technology.
International status
Wednesday, 3 December 2003 was a historical day for the African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) when the young institution was declared a full-fledged international organization. Signed by Mr Kalonzo Musyoka, the then Kenyan Minister for Foreign Affairs and Dr Osita Ogbu, the Executive Director of ATPS, the host-country agreement offers the institution several practical advantages that will allow it to operate more efficiently.
The agreement consists of ten articles that clearly establish the framework for activities conducted from ATPS headquarters in Nairobi. This covers cooperation between the institution and the government and funding arrangements along with goods and labor regulations for national and international staff.
It also stipulates international institution immunities and privileges allowed by the Government of Kenya.
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