In a new short video, Ugandan medicinal plants researcher Anywar Godwin discusses the potential of science diplomacy to have an impact

The pair will receive the award for their life-saving HIV/AIDS research, as well as accomplishments in science education, training, and outreach

Eminent scientists from throughout the world make up the membership of TWAS, and represent the best of developing world science

Joining in the annual UN celebrations of South-South cooperation, TWAS takes stock of its programmes in support of developing countries

In the ongoing effort to improve global health, scientific advancement remains one of the most powerful tools. From vaccine development to disease prevention strategies, breakthroughs in science have transformed lives — especially in regions where access to healthcare has historically been limited. At the heart of this progress is a belief that knowledge should not be confined by borders or economic status. This principle lies at the foundation of The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), an institution dedicated to strengthening scientific capacity in developing countries.

Founded in 1983 by a visionary group of scientists from the Global South under the leadership of Nobel laureate Abdus Salam, TWAS was built on the conviction that science and engineering are essential drivers of sustainable development. Its mission was clear: empower nations to tackle pressing challenges like hunger, disease, and poverty through homegrown research and innovation. Over the decades, TWAS has grown into a global network of more than 1,400 elected fellows from 112 countries — including 13 Nobel laureates — with about 84% hailing from developing nations. These scientists form the backbone of the Academy’s work, mentoring young researchers, shaping policy, and advancing cutting-edge studies that address region-specific health and environmental issues.

At a CAS-TWAS Centre of Excellence for Biotechnology symposium held in Beijing, China, energy experts described strategies to obtain clean energy from inexhaustible sources like sunlight and bacteria

Indian mathematician Neena Gupta received the 2023 TWAS-CAS Young Scientist Award for Frontier Science for providing a long-sought solution to an algebraic problem

TWAS President Quarraisha Abdool Karim's foreword to the Academy's 2023 Annual Report

Read it now to learn about how the Academy has been strengthening science in the global South

Burkinabé scientist Sanata Bamba-Pakotogo received the 2023 TWAS-Abdool Karim Award for improving healthcare for pulmonary fungal infections in her country