Report By: Ishmael Barfi
The Secretary General of the Association of African Universities (AAU), Professor Olusola Bandele Oyewole, has expressed that “ACE@10 is not only a milestone in our collective efforts to transform higher education in Africa but also a moment for reflection, celebration, and renewed commitment to the continent’s future.”
Since its launch in March 2014, the ACE program has developed from a bold idea into the largest regional initiative aimed at strengthening higher education across Africa.
Professor Oyewole highlighted that the ACE program has gained recognition for addressing the crucial need for African universities to produce highly skilled graduates, generate relevant research, and drive innovation to tackle the continent’s challenges.
The Nigerian professor of Food Science and Technology noted that, over the past decade, the AAU has supported more than 50 centers of excellence at five universities in West and Central Africa, including Djibouti.
These centers have trained over 10,000 graduate students, among whom more than 3,500 are women, thereby promoting gender equity in the fields of science and technology.
“Our efforts have led to the establishment of over 300 industry partnerships, secured millions of dollars in research grants, and contributed innovative solutions to pressing challenges, such as flood management, infectious diseases, building resilient systems, and addressing climate change,” he added.
“These achievements reflect the incredible potential within the African higher education sector and reinforce my belief that investing in our universities is investing in our future.”
The ACE program exemplifies collaborative efforts and shared ownership, cultivating a culture of learning, mobility, and innovation across the continent. Professor Oyewole took the occasion to acknowledge the contributions of leaders, faculty, and students who are integral to this program.
“Your passion, resilience, and dedication have turned ambition into reality, demonstrating what can be achieved by universities worldwide,” he praised.
Looking ahead, Professor Oyewole expressed optimism: “As we celebrate the past ten years and prepare for our next steps, we must keep our focus on the future. The next decade holds even greater promise, and I believe we must lay a solid foundation as we have so far.”
He envisions a future where African universities are not only regionally competitive but also globally recognized as centers of excellence, innovation, and transformation. “I foresee a time when our institutions are better funded, better governed, and equipped to serve our societies,” he added.
To achieve this, Professor Oyewole emphasized the need for sustained investment from governments, the private sector, and development partners. He also urged the continued strengthening of partnerships, deepening regional integration, and enhancing research and innovation.
“The ACE program has demonstrated what is possible when we come together with a shared vision and purpose. Let us reaffirm our commitment to elevating higher education as a cornerstone of Africa’s development. We must empower our youth with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they need to lead and innovate.”
The Professor of Food Science and Technology appealed to the media to help amplify stories of success from the AAU, showcasing how African education is addressing regional challenges.
“As a key facilitating unit, the AAU remains dedicated to providing ongoing support, coordination, and capacity building to ensure the program’s continued success.”
He took the opportunity to invite everyone to participate in the 16th General Conference of the Association of African Universities, which will take place in Rabat, Morocco, from July 21 to July 25, 2025.
This year’s conference will be focused on the timely theme of “Shaping the Future of Higher Education for Innovation and Sustainable Development in Africa.”
The General Conference is the AAU’s flagship gathering and one of the most significant events on the African higher education calendar.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
