What is the technology gap?

There is a wide gap between those who have access to technology and use it effectively and those who do not. The technology gap exists between those who can create and innovate to produce new technologies and those who cannot. It also exists between those who can access, adapt, master and use existing technologies and those who cannot. So harnessing the potential of technology for development goes beyond creating new technologies but also finding ways to access, adapt and use technology that already exists for the benefit of all the population.

The technology gap is evident in many areas:

• In Japan there are 861 patents granted per million people. In many developing countries the number is 0.
• 84% of articles published in scientific journals are from developed countries.
• In 2002, only 10 countries accounted for 86% of world total investment in Research and Development (R&D)
• The mean years of schooling in the United States is 12.1 years. In Guinea Bissau, it is less than one year.
• In Finland, 27.3% of university enrollments are in science subjects. In Chad, this figure is 0.1%.

Why does it matter?

The ability of countries to acquire, master, adapt and improve upon scientific and technical knowledge is a major determinant of their capacity to achieve sustainable economic growth. Both mature and new technologies can be applied to address specific local needs.

• Mature technology: Small-scale irrigation and quality fertilizers can enhance agricultural activities.
• New and emerging technologies: ICTs and biotechnologies can provide innovative applications to increase the productivity of small firms.

A key area where the technology gap exists is in research and development (R&D). R&D capability is essential to develop, access, absorb and master new technologies. Low levels of R&D reinforce the existing technology gap making it harder for countries or companies to compete.

What can be done?

In November 2005, an international panel of experts considered the issue of Bridging the Gap between and within Nations. The participants outlined a number of critically important themes that must be addressed to bridge the gap:

• Human capital and skills
• Infrastructure
• Private sector development and clusters
• International partnerships

These themes will be taken up during the 9th session of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (15-19 May 2006) with specific emphasis on multi-stakeholder partnerships not only to bridge the technology gap, but also to prevent it from growing wider.