The Association of African Universities (AAU) has unveiled two groundbreaking networks as part of its African Universities Experts initiative. These networks, focusing on Agro-Processing and Food and Climate Resilience, Oceans, Sustainable Water Use, Marine Resources, and Fisheries, are designed to foster collaboration among African universities to address critical challenges affecting the continent.
Launched under the broader Africa Research, Innovation, and Development (AfRID) Network, the initiative aims to enhance teaching, learning, and research across Africa. By promoting inclusivity, the networks welcome participation from all universities with expertise in the designated fields, ensuring the collective potential of Africa’s higher education sector is harnessed.
Key Objectives of the Networks:
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Agro-Processing and Food: Chaired by Prof. Lateef Oladimeji Sanni, Executive Director of the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute, this network seeks to bolster food security and improve agro-processing technologies to strengthen Africa's agricultural value chain.
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Climate Resilience and Marine Resources: Led by Prof. Shehu Akintola of Lagos State University, this network addresses sustainable resource management and climate adaptation, crucial for Africa’s environmental and economic stability.
Both networks will emphasize joint research projects, collaborative funding proposals, and knowledge exchange to solve some of Africa’s most pressing issues. According to AAU Secretary General, Professor Olusola Oyewole, these networks are only the beginning. The AAU plans to expand the initiative to include additional networks in fields like artificial intelligence, health, entrepreneurship, and sustainable mining.
"This is a transformative step for Africa’s research and education sectors," said Professor Oyewole. "Through partnerships and cross-continental academic engagement, we aim to strengthen Africa’s global academic standing while driving sustainable development on the continent."
The AAU is inviting like-minded institutions to join this ambitious initiative, highlighting the importance of collaboration in achieving Africa’s long-term development goals. With their inclusive framework and dynamic leadership, these networks are set to play a pivotal role in advancing innovation and knowledge creation across Africa.
The appointment of network leaders and the first set of initiatives are scheduled to commence in November 2024, marking a significant milestone in the continent’s academic and research integration efforts.
Article by Nyokabi Wanjiku
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