Scientific Acceleration Programme for the PALOP: Boosting Cape Verde's Future Through Research
The Scientific Acceleration Programme for PALOP (Portuguese-speaking African Countries) represents an unprecedented opportunity for Cape Verde, aimed at strengthening the country's scientific and technological capacity. Through investment in research, development and innovation, this programme aims to catalyse sustainable and inclusive growth, boosting progress in a number of areas crucial to the archipelago's socio-economic development.
Cape Verde, with its rich marine biodiversity, untapped tourism potential and specific challenges related to the scarcity of natural resources and climate change, urgently needs robust and targeted scientific research. The programme offers a favourable environment for cutting-edge research, promoting collaboration between Cape Verdean, Portuguese and international institutions. This collaboration is key to sharing knowledge, experience and resources, thus accelerating Cape Verde's ability to solve local problems and contribute to global knowledge.
The focus of the programme will be on strategic areas, with particular emphasis on research into:
- Marine Sciences: Research into the sustainability of marine resources, mitigating the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and developing technologies for sustainable aquaculture. Cape Verde's high marine biodiversity offers fertile ground for cutting-edge research in this field.
- Renewable Energies: Promoting research and development into renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, with the aim of increasing the country's energy autonomy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Cape Verde has a high potential for utilising renewable energies, boosting environmental and energy sustainability.
- Sustainable tourism: Developing new tourism strategies that protect Cape Verde's cultural and natural heritage, minimising environmental impact and maximising socio-economic benefits for local communities.
- Agriculture and Food Security: Research into efficient cultivation techniques, adaptation to climate change and the promotion of food security, guaranteeing sustainable food production and the resilience of rural communities.
The programme includes various activities, including:
- Funding for research projects: Grants for researchers and research teams, encouraging the creation of innovative projects that are relevant to local needs.
- Capacity building: Organisation of workshops, seminars and training programmes to strengthen the skills of Cape Verdean researchers and technicians.
- Promoting Collaboration: Support for the creation of collaborative networks between research institutions, companies and the government, promoting the transfer of knowledge and the link between research and society.
- Creation of infrastructures: Investment in research equipment and infrastructure, modernising laboratories and research facilities in Cape Verde.
Cape Verde's participation in this programme will bring multiple benefits. It will make it possible to attract and retain talent, generate skilled jobs, promote innovation and entrepreneurship, improve the population's quality of life and position the country as a centre of excellence in scientific research in the region. Investment in science and technology is an investment in Cape Verde's future.
The deadline for submitting applications is 30 September 2025.
For more information and to submit your application, please visit: https://gulbenkian.pt/apoios-lista/programa-de-aceleracao-cientifica-para-os-palop/
