In May 1991, the first International Workshop on the Physics and Modern Applications of Lasers was held at the University Cheikh Anta Diop of Dakar with the participation of more than 50 physicists from many African countries.
On that occasion, the African LAM Network was launched with the financial support of the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP).
The purpose of the Network is to promote the physics of lasers, atoms and molecules, and their applications, as well as to develop scientific cooperation in these fields in Africa.
The main objectives defined for the LAM Network are the following :
- promote the development of the Physics and Fundamental Research on Lasers, Atoms and Molecules and to extend the field of applications of lasers to the benefit of economic development in Africa
- promote the exchange of documentation and the circulation of information on recent progress in the Physics of Lasers and their applications, and to inform the public about them
- contribute towards the development of teaching and training programmes at school and university levels in the field of Lasers and their applications
- develop among the members of the Network exchange in the research, teaching, use of Lasers, and to help organize scientific meeting (seminar, schools, conferences, workshops).