Pathfinder Foundation for Education and Development

Conceived in the minds of scientists and futurists, the Pathfinder Foundation for Education and Development is dedicated to bringing the promise of leading-edge science and technology to the people of Africa.

Computers, wireless connectivity, biotechnology and energy engineering products are slowly making their way into the African continent. A mere 1 million of the 780 millions inhabitants in Africa have access to the Internet, 800 000 of that million are in one country: South Africa. Only one institution in Africa, a continent of 53 countries, includes a bioengineering curriculum.

While issues of physical infrastructure and equipment are critical, there is an often overlooked aspect of capacity building: human capital. Africa needs institutions to train eager minds in the latest scientific and technical advances if they are to help meet the “mission critical” challenges of the 21st century: robust communication infrastructure, clean water, clean energy and adequate food supplies.

A transfer of knowledge to Africans needs to occur to censure the sustainability of leading-edge technology as they are integrated into the African society.

The Pathfinder Foundation is dedicated to nurturing these institutions, one in each of the four language zones of Africa. The primary objective of the Pathfinder Multipurpose Centre will be the transfer of knowledge to equip and network a nucleus of talent with the skills to invent solutions appropriate for Africa, build businesses that extend the use of technology.