The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) recently participated in the UNESCO-AU International Forum on Transforming Knowledge for Africa’s Future in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 30 September to 2 October 2024. The event brought together African and global research leaders, policymakers, and development partners to explore strategies for strengthening collaborative research and driving sustainable development across the continent.

Representing the AAS, Dr Obed Ogega, Head of Programmes, delivered key insights during a session on Strengthening Collaborative Research Partnerships and Networks. Dr Ogega highlighted the need for equitable partnerships in research, emphasizing the importance of locally-led research projects that address Africa's unique challenges.

"Through improved investment in PhD and MSc training in Africa, and by ensuring researchers are connected to experienced mentors, we can significantly enhance the capacity of African researchers to lead global research initiatives," said Dr Ogega. "Collaboration between African countries and institutions allows for an exchange of ideas and resources that can bridge knowledge gaps, regardless of language barriers or geographical boundaries."

One of the session’s critical discussions centered on overcoming challenges faced by early-career African researchers, particularly in accessing mentorship, research networks, and technical skills training. Dr Ogega also stressed the importance of gender inclusion in research programs, noting that many women in science still face barriers in advancing their careers due to cultural expectations and limited access to mentorship.

The AAS programmes the African Research Initiative for Scientific Excellence (ARISE) and the African Postdoctoral Training Initiative (APTI) were showcased as vital initiatives that focus on empowering early-career researchers and promoting gender inclusion in scientific leadership. These programmes are designed to build the capacity of African researchers, enabling them to lead transformative research projects that contribute to the continent’s development agenda.

"African researchers are best placed to meet the challenges of improving development in their countries. By prioritizing locally-led research, we can ensure that research outputs are relevant, impactful, and aligned with Africa’s development goals," Dr Ogega added.

The forum, organized by UNESCO and the African Union, served as a platform for knowledge exchange and networking among African researchers, development partners, and policymakers. It also reinforced the need for interdisciplinary, cross-border research collaborations to drive innovation and address Africa’s most pressing socio-economic challenges.

As the African Academy of Sciences continues to champion research excellence, it remains committed to fostering partnerships that support the growth of Africa’s research ecosystem and its contribution to global scientific knowledge.