Exploring Nairobi - host city for the upcoming IASP 2024 World Conference

IASP CEO Ebba Lund and the events team has recently embarked on a site visit to Nairobi, Kenya, to strengthen the collaboration with our local host Konza Technopolis and secure potential venues for the upcoming IASP World Conference, themed "Demographics, Entrepreneurship, and Technology: Defining the Frontiers of Future Economies".

Named the world’s best city to visit in 2024 by Lonely Planet, Nairobi has been making waves in the tech and innovation scene, positioning itself as a hub for technological advancements and entrepreneurial ventures. The choice of the conference theme aligns seamlessly with the current landscape in Africa, where dynamic demographics, burgeoning entrepreneurship, and technological advancements are reshaping economies. The conference, scheduled for 24-27 September 2024, aims to bring together thought leaders, industry experts, and innovators from around the globe to explore the role of science parks and areas of innovation, not only in empowering regions such as Africa and Asia to harness the potential of their youth demographic, entrepreneurship, and technology for economic growth but also in addressing the challenges posed by a global population that is steadily ageing.

During the site visit, the team got a deeper understanding of the main spaces that will be used for the conference programme, as well as identifying spaces for social events that will allow our delegates to network with international peers while experiencing the rich cultural heritage of Nairobi. From vibrant markets to iconic landmarks, the city offers a broad selection of options for conference attendees to immerse themselves in the local atmosphere.

A highlight of the visit was the Partners Breakfast, organised by Konza Technopolis, where the organising team had a chance to engage with local entrepreneurs, policymakers, and innovators, as well as high profile politicians such as the Principal Secretary (PS) of ICT-DE Eng. John Tanui, the PS for Higher Education and Research Dr. Beatrice Inyangala and Chairman of the KOTDA Board Professor Raphael Munavu, among others. In her speech, Beatrice Inyagala commented that there is a “great responsibility to empower youth, for them to realise their talent and contribute to this space” highlighting that “science parks hold the promise for us as educationalists and the education sector.”

"We are excited about the prospect of hosting the IASP World Conference in Nairobi," said Ebba Lund, expressing enthusiasm about the collaboration between the international science and innovation community and Nairobi's growing ecosystem.

The call for contributions is currently open, have a look at the topics and submit your paper to secure your speaking slot on our global stage! Keep an eye on www.iaspworldconference.com for further information and updates on #IASPnairobi.