The World Academy of Sciences for the advancement of science in developing countries, known worldwide by its acronym, UNESCO-TWAS, supports sustainable prosperity through research, education, policy and diplomacy. The Academy is a programme unit of UNESCO and it is based in Trieste, Italy.
TWAS was founded in 1983 by a distinguished group of scientists from the developing world, under the leadership of Abdus Salam, the Pakistani physicist and Nobel laureate. Today, TWAS has 1,296 elected fellows — some of the world's most accomplished scientists and engineers — representing more than 100 countries; 11 of them are Nobel laureates. About 84 per cent come from developing nations, and the rest are scientists from the developed world whose work has had a significant impact in the South.
Through almost four decades, TWAS mission has remained consistent, while its daily work continues to adapt to current circumstances and situations:
Recognize, support and promote excellence in scientific research in the developing world.
Respond to the needs of young scientists in countries that are still developing in science and technology.
Promote South-South and South-North cooperation in science, technology and innovation.
Encourage scientific research and sharing of experiences in solving major challenges facing developing countries.