Advanced Materials for Developing Countries
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e of anatase for titanium production in Brazil, latente for the development of improved brick in India, and coconut leaves and fibers for roof thatching and rope in some Asian countries were cited as examples of the development of local resources through materials-based science and technology. It was also recommended that the buildup of a materials science and technology infrastructure be a high priority to provide a foundation for natural resource development and value-added manufacturing. Essential to this buildup are the interacting roles of government, universities, and industry. It was also feit that developing countries should encourage the formation of local professional societies in materials science and engineering, and should encourage scientists and engineers to join existing national and international technical societies. Such associations were recognized not only for facilitating exchanges between the technical personnel of government, universities, and industry, but also for providing course materials, handbooks, abstracting Services, and materials-selection Software, all at reasonable costs. A special coordinated infrastructure effort was called for in the development of human resources at the plant operation/manufacturing technician level. Specifically mentioned was the need for continuing education, special seminars, and professional society courses. International Cooperation It was recognized that technology transfers between countries can be accomplished bilaterally or multilaterally, the impetus for the exchange Coming from either a developing or developed country. Technology transfer is also deemed possible through international organizations such as UNIDO, or through professional societies, laboratories, or institutes. Several exchange mechanisms were specifically cited. Workshop and exchanges, such as
the UNIDO/Czechoslovakia Joint Program for International Cooperation in the Field of Ceramics which provides both technical Workshops and shortterm study tours, were cited. Similarly, the OKTEN program of transferring know-how through expatriate nationals was cited as a valuable exchange. Experts working in advanced countries go back to their less developed countries-of-origin for short Visits to give technical advice. It was also suggested that opportunities for the short-term training of scientists and technicians in developing countries be increased through such means as the International Center for Theoretical Physics in Trieste. Laboratories in developed countries could also be funded to encourage the inclusion of developing countries in cooperative activities with other developed countries. Also recommended was that courses be taught by members of professional societies in the developing countries. Existing data bases need to be more accessible to developing countries, and data bases which could be most beneficial to the technical needs of specific developing countries could be identified, according to the group. The Role of UNIDO It was recommended that UNIDO expand its materials sciences
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