More than 30 years ago, TWAS was founded to carry out a vitally important mission: to build scientific strength in the developing world and, by doing so, to improve life for hundreds of millions of people. Today, TWAS is recognized globally for its positive impact and influence.
From the founding of TWAS to the present day, Italy has provided essential encouragement and support to the Academy
TWAS General Conferences are showcases for scientific excellence in the developing world, and share an overarching theme: the importance of scientific research to human well-being. The conferences convene a range of participants—from the elite ranks of TWAS Fellows and TWAS prize winners to government science ministers and presidents of universities and science academies. High-ranking government officials—such as, in past years, the Heads of State of China, India, Rwanda, Senegal, Austria and Iran—often address the gatherings.
TWAS Council, elected by members every four years, is responsible for supervising all Academy affairs.
The World Academy of Sciences for the advancement of science in developing countries, known worldwide by its acronym, TWAS, supports sustainable prosperity through research, education, policy and diplomacy. The Academy is based in Trieste, Italy.
A series designed to examine critical science-related issues of importance both to the North and South.
"Excellence in Science: Profiles of Research Institutions in Developing Countries", is a series of books published by TWAS that explore the achievements of some of the South's most successful science centres. Each profile details how the research center was founded, the challenges it has overcome and its role in a nation's sustainable economic development. TWAS's publication partners have included the Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS) and the Science Initiative Group.