Doctoral Training in Inorganic Chemistry for Technological Innovations and Socio-Economic Development

Abstract

In the current knowledge based world, doctoral training needs to be responsive to not only the advancement of knowledge through original research, but also meeting societal needs that are wider than academia. The knowledge society requires a creativity and flexibility of the researchers’ mindset for a number of different functions and careers that go beyond those directly related to research. Doctoral studying is at the epitome of academic practices and has increasingly achieved recognition as a key part of this process worldwide. There are select few doctorate holders and even fewer doctorate scientists leave alone inorganic chemistry doctorates holders. Previous studies, on the doctoral studying experience in Europe suggest that students face a variety of difficulties during their studies. Attrition rates among doctoral candidates have been reported to range from 30% to 50%, depending on the discipline and country. In Africa the statistics are more depressed as they are coupled with very low enrolment, lack of funding and very high average age of candidates. In addition, there is a high migration rate out of mother country. Doctoral training in inorganic chemistry across the globe is relatively low while its knowledge and skill is in high demand for cutting edge innovations and technologies. Inorganic chemists address issues in medicine and biology, energy storage and consumption, synthesis of materials, photo- and electrochemical homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis, transition metal and main group organometallic chemistry, solid state and surface chemistry.