Science and innovation are pivotal for Africa's development, according to Professor Ahmed F. Zobaa, a leading figure in Electrical and Power Engineering and chair of the Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) of the African Research Initiative for Scientific Excellence (ARISE) programme.

In this video, Professor Zobaa emphasizes the need for scientific support in areas like public health, economic growth, sustainable energy systems, and digital inclusion. He highlights that these efforts are essential for meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and transforming Africa into a knowledge-based, innovation-led continent.

With a population of 1.4 billion and a median age of 19, Africa has a powerful demographic advantage. Professor Zobaa points out that by fostering the scientific capabilities of its youthful population, the continent could be led towards a brighter future. He emphasized that the ARISE programme, in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the European Commission, focuses on key themes such as public healthcare, scientific capacity building, sustainable energy, and digital inclusion.

Professor Ahmed F. Zobaa also stressed the importance of the African Academy of Sciences (AAS) in nurturing scientific collaboration and innovation across Africa. He remarked that by engaging with initiatives like ARISE, supporters contribute to building the continent's scientific capacities, addressing local and global challenges, and shaping a prosperous future. He affirmed that such support ensures Africa remains at the forefront of scientific advancements and achieves its development goals.