The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) recently hosted a momentous scientific conference from June 4-6 in Tunisia, dedicated to celebrating the successes of its African Research Initiative for Scientific Excellence (ARISE) programme. Held in collaboration with the Institut Pasteur de Tunis, the event convened approximately 100 researchers, policymakers, and thought leaders from across Africa and beyond, with global audiences joining through live-streamed sessions.
The conference served as a vibrant platform for fostering exchange and collaboration, with a focus on advancing research and innovation throughout the continent. Discussions centred on global imperatives for research cooperation, equitable scientific collaboration, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the transition to sustainable practices.
Established in 1985, AAS is a leading pan-African scientific organization committed to leveraging science and technology to address Africa’s developmental challenges. Dr. Peggy Oti-Boateng, Executive Director of AAS, underscored the event’s significance, stating, “Our gathering in Tunisia reaffirms our commitment to nurturing a robust scientific community across Africa.”
ARISE, launched in December 2020 with support from the African Union Commission and the European Commission, aims to bolster Africa’s scientific foundation by investing in early- and mid-career researchers. The programme, primarily funded by the EU with additional support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York, currently supports nearly 600 researchers across the continent.
The conference showcased diverse research initiatives ranging from renewable energy solutions and climate change adaptation to innovations in healthcare. Spotlight talks by ARISE fellows highlighted their impactful work and the program’s role in enhancing global visibility and fostering collaboration.
Dr. Obed Ogega, AAS programme manager, emphasized the collaborative network cultivated by ARISE, stating, “This programme is about more than individual research; it’s about building a cohesive network of researchers across Africa.”
The conference concluded with a strong commitment to advancing ARISE’s objectives, aiming to revolutionize Africa’s research and innovation landscape. The next phase seeks to strengthen research capabilities, promote cross-border collaboration, and translate research findings into impactful policy and practice.
With its focus on nurturing local talent and addressing regional challenges, AAS and its partners are poised to drive significant transformation in Africa’s scientific and innovation sectors, paving the way for a prosperous future across the continent.
Article by RB Reporter
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