Summary of Dr. Gholam Mujtaba’s Address at the United Nations in New York – From Archives
United Nations SDG STI Discourse — 78th Session (New York)
1. Introduction & Context
• Dr. Mujtaba delivered opening remarks at a high-level Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) session focused on Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) during the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York.
• He positioned STI as central to achieving the UN SDGs, emphasizing that innovation, research, and technology cooperation are foundational to addressing global challenges.
2. Importance of Evidence-Based Policy
• He emphasized that policy decisions should be grounded in scientific evidence and empirical data, cautioning against policy missteps caused by misinformation.
• According to available summaries, he advocated for greater integration of data analytics, scientific research, and technological insights into international development policy frameworks.
3. Innovation Cooperation
• Another theme was international cooperation in innovation ecosystems— particularly in linking governments, the private sector, universities, and research institutions.
• He noted that cross-border scientific partnerships can accelerate progress toward the SDGs beyond what isolated national efforts can achieve.
4. Addressing Misperceptions
• Dr. Mujtaba reportedly highlighted the risk that misperceptions and misinformation undermine SDG progress, including misunderstandings of scientific priorities and challenges in technology adoption.
• His remarks suggested that clarity in science communication is essential for effective global cooperation.
5. Call to Action
• The address concluded with a call for policy coherence, investment in R&D, and strengthened public–private global partnerships as key drivers toward achieving the SDGs by 2030.
