ASM Council Member Advocates for Brain Health and Economy at African Science Summit

In conjunction with World Brain Day, Professor Dr Jafri Malin Abdullah FASc, Council Member of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM), virtually participated in the African High-Level Science Summit on Brain Economy, Brain Health and Brain Capital as a prelude to the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). 

This event was an initiative of the Brain Research African Initiative (BRAIN) supported by the Brain Capital Alliance, the Neuro-Policy Program of Rice University‘s Baker Institute for Public Policy, the Euro-Mediterranean Economists Association and the Cameroon Government. 

The summit convened global leaders in brain science, policymakers, economists, diplomats, funding agencies, and stakeholders to deliberate and endorse “The Yaoundé Declaration on Brain Economy, Brain Health, and Brain Capital.” This declaration will be presented and discussed at the inaugural Future of Dementia in Africa Nature Conference and the UNGA79 Science Summit Brain Days in September 2024.  

At the African High-Level Science Summit, Dr Jafri emphasised the critical intersection of science, technology, innovation, and policy in advancing brain health, fostering the brain economy, and building brain capital. He highlighted the progress made in understanding and enhancing the human brain, describing it as fundamental to the well-being and prosperity of societies. 

The summit marked a pivotal moment, underscoring the importance of a collective mission to improve brain health and develop a robust brain economy. Dr Jafri noted that brain health, brain economy, and brain capital are interconnected pillars essential for sustainable societal development. He explained that a healthy brain is the foundation for human potential, enabling individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities and economies. This contribution, he said, extends to creating innovative industries, generating high-quality jobs, and boosting productivity through improved cognitive functions and mental well-being. 

Dr Jafri also emphasised the importance of critical thinking, problem-solving, and emotional resilience, particularly in the post-normal era, as vital for adapting to new challenges and seizing emerging opportunities in a rapidly changing world. He expressed his insight as a neurosurgeon and neuroscientist, having witnessed the transformative power of neuroscience in improving lives. 

Dr Jafri called for collaboration between scientists, governments, industries, and society, recognising the significant contributions of Africa and Asia’s rich histories and diverse cultures to the global scientific community. He stressed the need to leverage unique strengths and pursue humanity-centric research to improve health outcomes worldwide. 

The summit will culminate in adopting a declaration on brain economy, brain health, and brain capital, which Dr Jafri described as a strategic move addressing the urgent needs and opportunities of the time. He extended his gratitude to the organisers, Brain Research Africa Initiative, sponsors, and all contributors, acknowledging the importance of their work ahead of the 79th United Nations General Assembly. 

Dr Jafri concluded by emphasising that the decisions made, partnerships formed, and strategies developed at the summit will shape the future of brain science, not only in Africa but worldwide. He expressed hope that the insights and resolutions from the summit would influence international policies and programs, prioritising brain health and brain capital for the benefit of all humanity.