A MESSAGE FROM STAFF

     More than 11 years (1990 - 2001), the African Scientific Institute and the Science and Technology Awareness Fair committee invited you, your organization and your children to participate in its two day hands-on affair.

     Not long ago, each of us, as children had someone to light a spark in us. That, for some of us was the beginning of a long term invest- ment. When investments are made, high expectations should be demanded. When we invest in our children the expectation leads to self-pride, self- confidence, the ability to know that he or she can contribute positively within a culturally diverse society. He or she can be proud of their strengths and unite toward common goals. If we are to have our children meet the demands of employment, there must first be a reasonable understanding of the process; a diagram of continuity needs to be made. To demand excellence in performance, there must be the balance of strong curriculum, one that integrates math and science, beginning at pre-school and continuing through high school. To provide enrichment, there must be a partnership of scientists, engineers, mathematicians, teachers and parents.
     In our not too distant future greater numbers of African American and other "minorities", the physically disabled, and females will be underrepresented in all areas of science, math and health care related jobs if we do not continue to invest. The African Scientific Institute commits to partnership and collaboration with committed companies, institutions, and organizations to assist in bridging the gap, by pre- senting science and technology to our children today. Science and math is around us every day, so let all of us commit to bringing hands-on science to them.