Nigerian Academic Appointed to UNESCO Panel on Ethics in Science and Technology

Prof Chidi Oguamanam, a renowned Nigerian scholar, has received an invitation to join the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation's World Commission on the Ethics of Scientific Knowledge and Technology as a member, a position that will span four years, from 2026 to 2029.

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This appointment is a testament to Oguamanam's invaluable contributions to the fields of science and technology ethics, as well as related disciplines, and was formally conveyed to him via a letter from UNESCO.

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The letter, which was sent on Saturday, described the commission as an autonomous advisory body that serves as a platform for contemplation on the significant ethical challenges that arise from advancements in science and technology.

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The letter stated, “Recognising your significant contributions to the ethics of science and technology and related disciplines, it is my honour to invite you to become a member of UNESCO’s World Commission on the Ethics of Scientific Knowledge and Technology for a period of four years, from 2026 to 2029.”

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Established in 1998, the commission is a gathering of experts from diverse regions and disciplines who come together to examine the ethical issues associated with scientific and technological developments, climate change, and the environment.

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UNESCO places great importance on regional balance within the commission's membership to facilitate multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary debates on emerging ethical challenges.

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The commission provides guidance and recommendations to UNESCO, its member states, the scientific community, policymakers, civil society, and other stakeholders through its reports.

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Its previous work has contributed to the development of global normative instruments, including the Declaration of Ethical Principles in Relation to Climate Change adopted in 2017 and the Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence adopted in 2021.

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The commission has recently published reports that delve into the ethics of quantum computing and space exploration and utilisation, according to UNESCO.

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The organisation noted that the commission will now shift its focus to new areas identified for its future work programme, including emerging ethical challenges arising from scientific and technological developments.

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By inviting Oguamanam to join the commission, UNESCO has expressed its confidence in his expertise and expects him to make active contributions to the development of its forthcoming reports.

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Additionally, the organisation expects members to contribute to “horizon scanning” of emerging ethical challenges and help identify issues that should be addressed in the commission’s next cycle.

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Oguamanam's appointment serves to strengthen Nigeria's representation in international discussions on the ethical implications of science, technology, and innovation.

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During the 2026–2029 term, he is expected to serve on the commission alongside experts from different regions and academic disciplines.