Short description:
A life-long biodiversity scientist, academician, entrepreneur and an “accidental” President who came to the high office without any political affiliations. She served as first female and 6th President of the Republic of Mauritius from 2015 to 2018. She strongly believes in the notion that in order to become more competitive counties must invest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education.
Curriculum Vitae：
Professor Ameenah Gurib Fakim has been the Managing Director of the Centre International de Dévelopment Fharmaceutique (CIDP) Research and Innovation as well as Professor of Chemistry at the University of Mauritius with an endowed chair at the University of Mauritius. She also served as the Chairperson for the International Council for Scientific Union – Regional Office for Africa and served as an Independent Director on the Board of Barclays Bank of Mauritius Ltd between 2012 –2015.
A prolific author, she has published on a diverse range of subjects, authored and co-authored more than 30 books and scientific articles on biodiversity conservation and sustainable development of medicinal plants. She is a sought after speaker.A prolific author, she has published on a diverse range of subjects, authored and co-authored more than 30 books and scientific articles on biodiversity conservation and sustainable development of medicinal plants. She is a sought after speaker.
For her efforts as a scientist, Ameenah Gurib-Fakim has been recognized worldwide, receiving the L’Oreal UNESCO Award for Women in Science, Laureate for the National and Economic Council, and the African Union Award for Women in Science.For her efforts as a scientist, Ameenah Gurib-Fakim has been recognized worldwide, receiving the L’Oreal UNESCO Award for Women in Science, Laureate for the National and Economic Council, and the African Union Award for Women in Science.
She believes in the notion that counties must invest in their young people end empower them with the tools of science and technology, she is devoting her post-Presidency live to advancing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education so that countries can stay economically, technologically and scientifically competitive in a rapidly transforming global economy. This theme has been the leitmotif of her life and remains very close to her heart.
In June 2016, she was in the Forbes List for the 100 ‘Most Powerful Women in the world’ and 1st among the Top Women in Africa Forbes List 2017, 2019. She is honored as one of Foreign Policy’s 2015 Global Thinkers.
Topics:
– The importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education
– Sustainability issues
– Biodiversity conservation and traditional knowledge systems
– Science for policy and the need for STI dialogue
– African politics and entrepreneurship – Empowerment of women
