Project
Science Engineering Technology and Innovation Policy Asia and the Pacific Network (STEPAN)
About STEPAN
Reestablished in July 2021 by the UNESCO Regional Office in Jakarta, Science Engineering Technology and Innovation Policy Asia and the Pacific Network (STEPAN) serves as a regional collaboration platform for science, technology, and innovation (STI) policy in Asia and the Pacific. Its mission is to help member countries optimize their STI resources to advance national development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In line with its constitution, STEPAN's 2021-2025 Action Plan focuses on three key areas:
STI governance
STI cooperation and collaboration for SDGs-related technologies
Supporting multi-spectrum STEM capacity building for enhanced science services to society
STEPAN facilitates knowledge exchange, policy dialogue, and capacity-building programs to help member countries refine their STI policies and strategies. By leveraging regional expertise, the network provides evidence-based insights and lessons learnt for better decision-making and effective public investment in STI. The network fosters collaboration between governments, research institutions, and regional organizations, ensuring that STI policies are not only nationally relevant but also aligned with broader regional and global priorities. Through these efforts, STEPAN enhances the impact of STI initiatives, driving sustainable growth and innovation across Asia and the Pacific.
Action Plan 2021 - 2025
The Action Plan 2021–2025 was developed during the revival meeting of STEPAN in 2021 and officially endorsed by members in November of the same year. The plan focuses on three strategic priority areas:
1.STI governance
STEPAN provides a platform for sharing knowledge and best practices in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) governance, supporting member states throughout the various stages of developing and implementing their national STI policies. This includes promoting the adoption of Open Science and fostering a culture of research integrity and ethics across the Asia and the Pacific region.
2.STI cooperation and collaboration for SDGs-related technologies
STEPAN strengthens regional cooperation and collaboration in interdisciplinary initiatives that leverage science, technology, and innovation (STI) to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It aims to enhance understanding of the effective use of STI in advancing the SDGs, while also building the capacity of multi-level and multi-stakeholder actors to implement STI policies through regional partnerships.
3. Supporting multi-spectrum STEM capacity building for enhanced science services to society.
STEPAN advances multi-spectrum STEM capacity building, including through promoting citizen science and enhancing science communication, particularly through science museums and science centers, to better serve society.
Structure of STEPAN
Currently, STEPAN has 21 Member Countries, represented by an expert from the main national institution or entities in charge of STI (National Focal Point (NFP). The National Focal Points are designated by the governments through the National Commission for UNESCO in their country, shaping the Coordination Board of STEPAN.
Constitution of STEPAN
STEPAN’s Constitution provides the governance framework for the network’s operations, membership, and decision-making processes. It outlines STEPAN’s primary objectives, including promoting effective SETI policy development, supporting national and regional capacities, and facilitating collaboration among member countries. The Constitution defines roles and responsibilities for National Focal Points, the Coordination Board, Chair and Vice-Chairs, and the UNESCO Jakarta Secretariat.
