Balkan Forum

There have always been areas of the world that have lagged behind other countries in terms of science and technology. For instance, it was somewhat of a shock to most people when NASA first announced that humans had set foot on Mars. Unless you’ve travelled extensively, you may not have realized how undeveloped many countries are in terms of science and technology.

The life of an average citizen in developing countries is often a struggle. However, thanks to the advancements in science and technology, people there have a way to lead better lives. The advancement of science has seen the emergence of many alternative sources of energy, as well as improved medical equipment. This has ensured that most countries have proper infrastructure, health, and sanitation. However, there are definitely downsides that come with this.

The modern world is rife with technology. From cell phones to computers, people are becoming more and more accustomed to technology, especially in developing countries. However, this is not necessarily a good thing. Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) courses are traditionally deemed “gifted,” but the term is often misused. Many people assume that it is reserved for students that are exceptionally intelligent, but this is not the case. STEM courses are not for gifted students but all students. These courses allow students to explore, discover, problem-solve, and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Unfortunately, this is not always true in developing countries.

In today’s world, the advances of science and industry are transforming economies across the globe. From advances in health care to innovations in transportation, technology creates new industries as well as jobs in fields like mechanical engineering, technology, and more.

One area greatly impacted by technological advancements is agriculture. In developed countries, precision farming techniques enabled by drones, satellite imaging, and IoT sensors optimize crop yields and resource management. This not only increases productivity but also minimizes environmental impact. Conversely, in many developing nations, traditional farming methods still prevail due to limited access to modern technologies. However, initiatives to introduce affordable and accessible tech solutions to smallholder farmers are gaining traction, promising improvements in productivity and livelihoods.

The manufacturing sector provides another lens through which to examine the intersection of science, technology, and industry. Automation and robotics have revolutionized production processes in developed countries, leading to increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Material handling and distribution, which are critical aspects of manufacturing, have been transformed through technologies such as computer-controlled conveyor systems. These automated conveyors enable the precise tracking and movement of parts and products through factories, warehouses, and distribution centers. Additionally, a specialized type of conveyor used in many modern facilities is the Industrial Vibratory Conveyor. This equipment often utilizes controlled vibration to move bulk materials reliably and efficiently through the manufacturing process.

The service industry, particularly in areas such as finance and telecommunications, has also been reshaped by technological innovation. Digital banking services, fintech solutions, and mobile payment platforms have revolutionized financial inclusion, particularly in regions where traditional banking infrastructure is lacking. Similarly, advancements in telecommunications have facilitated connectivity and access to information, empowering businesses and individuals alike.

Although technology has made the world a global village, it negatively affects third-world countries. Since these countries are deprived of much technological advancement, they lack the tools to counter the negative effects of science and technology. These include the lack of monetary resources, the technological gap, and illiteracy. These problems have led to the decline in health, education, and living standards in third-world countries.

Technology is a double-edged sword. As revolutionary as it is, it has also caused a lot of negative effects in third-world countries. Lack of education and poverty are the foremost causes of this heavy impact. Lack of education can be mainly attributed to a lack of access to expert hands. Lack of access to experts leads to poor adaptation to technology. This means less use of technology and limited applications. For instance, access to mobile phones is limited in many third-world countries. This is because most of the population does not have money to pay for airtime.

In today’s high-tech world, where technology surrounds us every day, it’s easy to forget that there are places in the world where science and tech are pretty much unheard of. For example, in places like The Congo, cell phones are a luxury that many cannot even access.

Living in third-world countries can be challenging. Poverty, lack of education, and prejudice are just a few factors that can impede progress in developing countries. However, with the right tools and technologies, third-world countries have an opportunity to grow and prosper, just like nations in the industrialized world.