The intersection of science and the human condition as a “global enterprise” was the subject of AAAS President Dr. David Baltimore’s opening address to attendees at the Annual Meeting Opening Ceremony on Feb. 14, 2008 in Boston. Baltimore is a leading biologist and a California Institute of Technology Professor of Biology who was co-recipient of the 1975 Nobel Prize for Medicine in 1975 for the discovery of reverse transcriptase.“Discovery is and remains fun,” said Baltimore in describing why he chose a career in research.

His personal connection to scientific investigation has led him to understand that significant issues such as energy solutions that address climate change while supporting developing nations and finding an Aids vaccine, can only be tackled by global efforts and significant government investment. “It’s time for the scientific community to be heard in the presidential campaign,” he said calling for a presidential debate on science and technology.

Baltimore introduced His Escellency Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda who spoke about his country’s efforts to use science and technology to create economic opportunity.

Kagame reminded the audience that the continuous expansion of knowledge is something that is taken for granted in developed nations. In Africa the challenge of linking the efforts of government, business and universities is just getting underway that will pave the way for using science and technology as an engine for social and economic development is just beginning.

Exporting raw materials does not create wealth in Africa as it does in the countries that recieve those exports. Kagame sees Rwandans themselves as their real national asset who will learn how to create value-added products and services. This is why Rwanda is currently investing 25% of their national budget in education. Teaching math and science at all levels is now a national priority in Rwanda.

The Union of Concerned Scientists, the leading science-based nonprofit working for a healthy environment and a safer world, held a press conference at the AAAS Annual meeting earlier in the day to announce The Federal Scientists Bill of Rights and Responsibilities, and to discuss recent changes in the federal government that have had an impact on the ability of federal scientists to carry out their work. Read the press release here.

The 2008 conference theme, “Science and Technology from a Global Perspective” was echoed strongly in these three opening day presentations.