"Incremental changes - so-called gradual reforms - are inappropriate for a system that has been ineffective for decades," Zewail said

CAIRO — The Lebanon, Palestine and Iraq wars have shown the plight of the Arab world and underline the clear need for reform and change, renowned Egypt-born Noble Science Laureate Ahmed Zewail believes.

Writing in Britain's The Independent, Zewail highlighted four "pillars of change" to restore the glory of the Arab world which in the past prided itself on world-class universities and renowned scholars and scientists.

"First, a new political system must be established with, at its core, a constitution defining the democratic principles of human rights, freedom of speech, and governance through contested elections."

Zewail, the only Arab to receive the Nobel Prize in Science in 1999, also underlined the need to enforce the rule of law on all citizens irrespective of faith or background.

"Currently, some rules of law are either unenforced or selectively enforced, resulting in demoralizing practices."

The Egyptian-American chemist also pressed for revisiting and revitalizing the educational method with the aim of promoting critical thinking and teamwork.

"Fourth, an overhauling of the Arab media is necessary."

Zewail lamented that Arabs are "inundated with mind-numbing and propaganda programs."

He encouraged Al-Jazeera-like media outlets concerned with cultural, social and educational events.

The Noble laureate stressed that for Arabs to accomplish the transition to the world of the 21st century the people and leaders must embark on a new course.

"Incremental changes - so-called gradual reforms - are inappropriate for a system that has been ineffective for decades."

Click to read Zewail's opinion piece in full