In a major step toward advancing sustainability research in Africa, the AXA Research Fund (AXA RF), the National Research Foundation (NRF), and the Future Earth Africa Hub have introduced the African Scientific Progress Award (ASPA). With €440,000 in funding, the award aims to support five early-career researchers across Africa, focusing on the critical intersection of climate change and health.
The ASPA is designed to tackle Africa’s unique sustainability challenges by fostering scientific excellence among young researchers. The initiative prioritizes practical, locally relevant solutions for mitigating and adapting to climate change, particularly about health risks. By selecting researchers from all regions—North, South, East, West, and Central Africa—the award promotes equitable geographic representation and encourages cross-continental collaboration.
Targeting African researchers with PhDs and three to five years of research experience, the award will provide career development opportunities. “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to nurturing Africa’s emerging scientific talent. By supporting young researchers, we can tackle some of the continent’s most urgent sustainability challenges,” said Julia d’Astorg, Head of the AXA Research Fund.
In addition to financial backing, ASPA will offer capacity development programs, equipping grantees with leadership and communication skills to ensure they can effectively share their findings with a global audience. Professor Heila Lotz-Sisitka of the Future Earth Africa Hub Leadership Centre remarked, “ASPA is about building a resilient, innovative scientific community in Africa.”
NRF CEO Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo highlighted the initiative’s broader significance, saying, “This partnership will increase scientific output across the continent, grow the pool of African academics, and support the next wave of research leaders.”
The application process for the ASPA is now open, with submissions due by November 22, 2024. Early-career researchers from across Africa are encouraged to apply for this opportunity to advance their research and contribute to sustainable solutions for the continent.
Article by Nyokabi Wanjiku
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