Forward Agenda

Author:

Abíọ́dún Abdul

First published:

Publisher:

Yoruba Yonder (originally in Writers Space Africa)

Set in a landscape of intense competition among technology developers, the narrative raises critical questions about whether Africa’s future in science and innovation should be driven by collaboration over rivalry.

Read Forward Agenda online

Photo: Grant Galbraith of a Benin Bronze Head at Nairobi Gallery

Suggested discussion points

  • What policy guidelines should guide deployment of such and similar technologies for community benefits, sustainability and heritage preservation?
  • How does the use of local bronze in robot development influence its reception, identity, and acceptance?
  • What potential ethical, social or environmental risks may arise from use of the robot for resource extraction? How does the funding process reflect power and innovation dynamics in Africa’s Higher Education Institutions?
  • Can a high-tech vision advance national development while honoring heritage and governance?
  • Why might this be significant for Africa’s tech future?
  • How can Africa shape her own technological future?
  • What message does the story send about neurodiversity in research and innovation?
  • Should technological advancement in Africa prioritize collaboration or competition? Can both co-exist? What are the trade-offs?
  • How does the story infer institutional structures and how they influence who gets to innovate or be recognized? How can innovators balance technical functionality with social and cultural relevance?

Workshop guides

  • Critiquing policy documents using African Speculative Fiction

    This method is designed to help communities of people critique and update STEM policy. It is useful for a group of mixed abilities and experiences i.e. not only for people with professional policy-making experience Time required: recommended minimum time of 2 hours

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