NASAC ADI Webinar on The Value of Academy Membership

The Value of Academy Membership: Insights from the ADI Webinar

On 4 September 2025, NASAC hosted the third edition of its Academy Development Initiative (ADI) webinar. Held virtually via Zoom, the event brought together distinguished scientists, policymakers, and early-career researchers to reflect on a central question: What is the true value of academy membership?

In his opening remarks, Mr. Jack Omondi welcomed participants, framing the webinar as a platform to re-examine the role and relevance of science academies in today’s world. He emphasized that academies are more than learned societies—they are engines of knowledge, guardians of independence, and vehicles for societal transformation. He then introduced the keynote speaker, Dr. Jackie Kado, Executive Director of NASAC, who delivered a thought-provoking presentation structured around three themes: the foundations of academies, the benefits of membership, and the wider impact on society.

The Foundations of Science Academies

Dr. Kado began by revisiting the roots of science academies. She explained that academies are built on three enduring principles: they must remain merit-based, trusted, and independent. Europe pioneered the model in the 17th century, and Africa’s first academies followed in the 20th century. Since its establishment in 2001, NASAC has supported the growth of this ecosystem, which now comprises 32 academies across the continent.

She emphasized that academies exist to provide impartial, evidence-based advice, free from political influence. Yet, this noble mission faces challenges, particularly limited resources. Participants such as Prof. Kassa raised concerns about how financial constraints affect academies’ independence. Solutions discussed included international partnerships, endowment funds, and innovative fundraising. NASAC’s founding president, Prof. Mohamed Hassan, underscored the network’s ongoing role in strengthening members and amplifying their voice globally through its affiliation with the InterAcademy Partnership.

The Benefits of Membership

Academy membership, Dr. Kado noted, is both an honor and a responsibility. It elevates scientists as leaders in their fields, conferring credibility and recognition, while also demanding active participation in mentorship, advisory work, and policy engagement. Members carry the dual task of shaping scientific thought and building bridges between science and society.

She highlighted how membership opens doors to international collaborations, interdisciplinary networks, and leadership opportunities that contribute to personal and professional growth. Discussions in the plenary session further explored the importance of robust publication practices, vigilance against predatory journals, and inclusive criteria for membership that reflect the diversity of scientific excellence.

The Impact on Society

The final theme focused on the societal impact of academies. “Active members are the backbone of academies,” Dr. Kado remarked, emphasizing that engaged fellows keep academies credible, relevant, and dynamic. By drawing on diverse expertise, academies are able to produce balanced, trusted advice for policymakers, shape national and regional science agendas, and ultimately foster public trust in science.

The session also grappled with sensitive questions, including how academies manage misconduct among members. Dr. Kado stressed the importance of personal engagement, dialogue, and active participation to strengthen accountability and commitment. Nonetheless, disciplinary processes should be addressed in the legal documents of the academy to ensure that members do not put the institution at risk or disrepute.

Looking Ahead

As the webinar concluded, participants applauded Dr. Kado for her comprehensive and inspiring reflections. The discussions reaffirmed that academies are not just repositories of knowledge, but living institutions with the power to transform societies. Their strength lies in the commitment of their members—scientists dedicated to advancing knowledge for the public good.

The ADI series will continue during the Learning Collaborative at the 2025 Annual Meeting of African Science Academies (AMASA 2025) in Rabat, Morocco, where the conversation on academy development will deepen.