Evaluation: Phase I of the International Basic Sciences Program

This report presents an assessment of the first phase of the International Basic Sciences Program (IBSP), based on consideration of the take-off of the IBSP, initial returns of the projects launched in 2005, the development of partnerships, and lessons learned so far. The report states:

that all the measures needed to launch the IBSP and make it fully operational were taken in a timely fashion(Italics added.)

As the first phase of the IBSP will be finished in 2007, the report also introduces principal elements of a new strategy proposed for the forthcoming phase of the program. The major elements of the new strategy highlight the promotion of regional and international cooperation in capacity-building in the basic sciences and science education, and seek considerable reinforcement of the concentration of the IBSP by focusing IBSP activities on a limited number of major priority actions (MPAs) and the development of a continuous interface with Member States.

IBSP’s is governed by an Scientific Board with 18 members, who were appointed by the Director-General in 2004, after consultation with the International Council for Science (ICSU), the Academy of Sciences for the Developing World (TWAS) and National Commissions. The program received 252 project proposals for the first implementation phase (2005-2007). These projects fall into three categories:

* Physical sciences encompassing physics, mathematics and chemistry;

* Biological sciences embracing molecular and cell biology, neurobiology, biomedical sciences, biochemistry and various areas of biotechnology;

* Science Education

In 2005, 17 of the 39 IBSP projects recommended for funding by the Scientific Board were launched and received support.