Author: ACE Comms Team

Fostering Entrepreneurship and Innovation in African Higher Education: Lessons from the Africa Centers of Excellence for Development Impact Project Study Visit at the University of Ghana

Background and Context

Entrepreneurship and innovation are pivotal forces driving economic growth and development worldwide. Recognizing this, African universities are fostering an entrepreneurship culture to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world impact. Since its inception in 2019, the Africa Centers of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) project—the third phase of the World Bank’s flagship higher education program in Africa—has been instrumental in this effort. With 54 centers of excellence across 11 West African countries and Djibouti, the project has empowered institutions with cutting-edge research facilities and the expertise to transform academic innovations into market-driven solutions.

A cornerstone of ACE Impact’s strategy is fostering an entrepreneurial mindset within African universities. This is being achieved through targeted capacity-building initiatives, equipping researchers with skills to navigate commercialization, attract venture capital investments, and establish strategic industry collaborations.

Enhancing Entrepreneurship and Innovation Through ACE Impact

The ACE Impact project, co-financed by the World Bank and AFD, is designed to align education and research activities with sectoral needs while promoting knowledge transfer. One of the project indicators underscores this mission by encouraging research commercialization, entrepreneurship programs, and stronger industry-academia partnerships.

The indicator dedicated to entrepreneurship and innovation seeks to enhance the entrepreneurial ecosystem of African universities. Through structured industry partnerships, centers work closely with key economic sectors such as agriculture, health, and ICT to co-develop solutions that meet market needs. To facilitate innovation and research excellence, the ACE Impact Project has equipped various universities with state-of-the-art laboratories and modern research facilities. These investments empower centers to conduct groundbreaking research, incubate emerging technologies, and advance cutting-edge solutions.

Additionally, recognizing the need for regional collaboration and the replication of best practices, the project provides opportunities for cross-center collaboration.

The Learning Visit: Strengthening Innovation Ecosystems

To further advance regional cooperation, ACE Impact organized a study visit from January 20-22, 2025, at the University of Ghana, home to three ACE centers excelling in entrepreneurship and innovation. The three-day workshop featured 15 sessions, including keynote addresses, expert presentations, roundtable discussions, and specialized breakouts. The event brought together 150 stakeholders—including World Bank representatives, the Association of African Universities (AAU), vice-chancellors, researchers, and industry partners—to explore pathways for translating academic research into scalable commercial products.

University of Ghana Vice Chancellor, Prof Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, welcoming the workshop participants
University of Ghana Vice Chancellor, Prof Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, welcoming the workshop participants

A keynote address by the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana highlighted strategic initiatives in research and innovation, including programs under the Office of Research, Innovation, and Development (ORID). Participants engaged in interactive sessions emphasizing technology transfer, intellectual property protection, and university-industry linkages.

The sessions underscored the transformative role of universities in driving economic development by strengthening institutional policies, expanding private-sector partnerships for demand-driven research, and establishing Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) to bridge academia-industry gaps. Case studies from leading ACE centers—such as WACCBIP’s biotech startup, Oak Park’s support for student ventures, and WACCI’s agricultural innovations—illustrated the immense potential of African research institutions in shaping global advancements.

Key Takeaways and Way Forward

One of the most significant takeaways from the study visit was the critical importance of research commercialization in advancing Africa’s scientific and economic landscape. Successful examples, such as WACCBIP’s biotech spinoff, Yeemachi Biotech, showcased the potential of African universities to drive groundbreaking innovations. The need for structured engagement between academia and the private sector was also emphasized, with TTOs playing a pivotal role in intellectual property protection, research commercialization, and industry collaboration.

Also, the need for institutions to integrate structured commercialization strategies within their research frameworks was highlighted. By nurturing innovative ecosystems through mentorship programs, startup incubation, and industry partnerships, universities can foster a culture that bridges the gap between research and market needs.

The meeting also noted that sustained national policies and financing mechanisms are crucial for long-term innovation. The study visit highlighted recommendations such as the establishment of endowment funds, strengthened collaboration between governments and private investors, and the incorporation of entrepreneurial training into university curricula.

Conclusion

The ACE Impact project study visit to the University of Ghana reaffirmed the project’s recognition of the vital role that research, innovation, and entrepreneurship play in driving Africa’s socio-economic transformation agenda. The insights gained from the study visit could be harnessed to shape future interventions in higher education research and innovation as the project continues to empower African universities and researchers. The strategies, achievements, and real impacts shared by the University of Ghana and other institutions served as an inspiration and starting point for others seeking to enhance their global competitiveness.

ACE Impact’s Final Push: A Transformative Journey for African Higher Education Nears Milestone Completion

Virtual 12th Regional Workshop Highlights Progress and Sustainability

The virtual 12th Africa Higher Education Centers of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) Regional Workshop on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, marked a decisive milestone in the ACE Impact project’s mission to transform African higher education.  Convening over 200 stakeholders, including the 54 ACE centers, international experts, and key partners from the World Bank, French Development Agency (AFD), and the Association of African Universities (AAU), the workshop served as a pivotal forum to assess the progress, address ongoing challenges, and strategize for the project’s final phase as it approaches its scheduled conclusion in June 2025.

Opening remarks from AAU’s Secretary General – Professor Olusola Oyewole, the World Bank’s Task Team leader – Dr. Namrata Tognatta, and AFD’s Regional Education Manager – Mr. Wassim Hadj Ali, set a decisive tone, emphasizing higher education’s critical role in Africa’s socio-economic development. Each speaker highlighted the ACE Impact’s tangible achievements and stressed the importance of crafting sustainable models to ensure these centers continue their transformative work beyond the project’s lifespan. Notably, Dr. Tognatta commended the resilience of ACE Impact institutions, acknowledging their agility in adapting to pandemic-related challenges. Professor Oyewole called for robust partnerships with industry and government to secure ACE Impact’s legacy within African universities.

Project’s Progress updates from AAU’s Senior Program Manager responsible for the ACE Impact Project, Dr. Sylvia Mkandawire, showcased impressive strides in meeting ACE Impact’s ambitious targets, reporting overachievement in key metrics like internships (103%) and near-completion in student enrolment (99%), program accreditation (95%), research publications (88%), and external revenue (86%). Proposing ways to navigate the few governance, procurement, safeguards, and communication challenges, she was upbeat that the ACE Impact project could attain a 100% achievement rate before closure in June 2025. While the project is progressing toward a 100% achievement rate, Mrs. Adeline Addy, AAU’s Monitoring and Evaluation Manager, urged lower-performing centers to intensify their efforts. Notably, out of the $305 million allocated, $259 million has been disbursed, with further releases expected to reach $291 million by early 2025. Even though the project has so far disbursed approximately 259 million dollars to the 54 centers of excellence, the centers were reported to have utilized only 157 million dollars, representing 61% of the total disbursements. This relatively low average utilization rate was mainly attributed to procurement challenges and expenditure delays. Acknowledging these challenges, World Bank’s Education Consultant, Ms. Wura Mosuro, especially encouraged the low fund-utilizing centers to leverage the technical and financial support available to overcome these challenges and maximize their fund utilization and overall impact. Rounding off the project updates, financial contributions by AFD were detailed by Mr. Hadj Ali, who emphasized development finance’s critical role in sustaining project momentum.

Another key highlight of the workshop was the presentation on verification exercises, with a specific session focusing on recent reviews and outcomes. Mrs. Adeline Addy outlined the rigorous verification processes conducted alongside the World Bank, reporting over $22.6 million earned by centers from June to October 2024. Indicators such as student enrollment and research publications were tracked, revealing that some countries still have 6% to 35% of funds yet to be earned. Mrs. Addy also announced three upcoming verification rounds from November 2024 through April 2025, encouraging centers to maximize their earnings while addressing specific challenges. Ms. Veerle Bastiaanssen of Technopolis concluded with a review of submitted research publications, confirming that out of 471 submissions, 438 were eligible, and 270 were SCOPUS-indexed. She shared positive survey findings on ACE Impact graduates, showcasing their skill relevance, research impact, and high employment potential.

With the ACE Impact project’s closure on the horizon, Dr. Mkandawire charted a roadmap for the final months, underscoring priorities such as verification exercises, closeout activities, and comprehensive reporting.

The workshop concluded with insightful closing remarks from Drs. Xiaonan Cao and Namrata Tognatta of the World Bank. Both speakers commended the ACE Impact centers for their dedication and resilience throughout the project. Dr. Cao was particularly enthused about the capacities that the centers of excellence had developed to take off, highlighting the critical need for continued collaboration among themselves and with development partners and regional governments to sustain the gains made through the ACE Impact project. In her final words, Dr. Namrata Tognatta, encouraging the ACE Impact centers to maintain their momentum as they work towards the final stages of the project, advised them to continue to comply with safeguard and fiduciary requirements and attend implementation support meetings. She reiterated the World Bank’s commitment to supporting the ACE Impact centers in their mission to enhance higher education and research in Africa to ensure a long-lasting transformative project impact.

Preceding the 12th Reginal workshop, the Project Steering Committee Meeting on October 21, 2024, identified strategic solutions to project bottlenecks. This workshop also sets the stage for a series of participating Country Roundtable and Implementation Support Meetings on November 11 -25th, 2024, aiming to offer targeted assistance in financial management, procurement, and evaluation as the ACE Impact centers enter the final stretch of this transformative project.

ACETEL Leads the Way: Landmark eLearning Conference Showcases Digital Transformation in African Higher Education

In a milestone event for digital learning in Africa, the Africa Centre of Excellence on Technology-Enhanced Learning (ACETEL) held a groundbreaking eLearning Conference from October 2-4, 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria. In collaboration with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the conference highlighted ACETEL’s innovative work in leveraging ACE Impact project resources to bridge educational gaps through cutting-edge digital learning programs.

A networking session
A networking session

Delivering an inspiring keynote, Prof. Olusola Oyewole, Secretary-General of the Association of African Universities (AAU), praised ACETEL as a shining example of the ACE Impact project’s vision to empower African education through technology. Prof. Oyewole emphasized the ACE Impact initiative’s role in equipping universities to tackle challenges such as limited access, outdated infrastructure, and skill gaps in technology, paving the way for sustainable educational solutions. “The ACE Impact project has helped institutions like ACETEL develop homegrown solutions that are redefining education delivery,” he stated, calling for greater investment in digital infrastructure and continued partnerships to expand ACETEL’s success.

ACETEL Director Prof. Grace Jokthan outlined the center’s achievements, including the creation of eLearning platforms that reach students in underserved areas, contributing to increased enrollment, groundbreaking research, and regional development. Prof. Jokthan emphasized ACETEL’s mission to equip educators and learners with essential digital skills and extend these solutions across West Africa, underscoring collaboration with other ACE Impact centers to share knowledge and best practices.

ACETEL Director Prof. Grace Jokthan welcoming conference participants
ACETEL Director Prof. Grace Jokthan welcoming conference participants

Emerging technologies, such as AI, blockchain, and VR, were also spotlighted as tools with transformative potential. ACETEL’s pioneering approach to integrating these technologies reflects the ACE Impact project’s goal to use innovative solutions for local challenges. Demonstrations on VR and AR for virtual labs showed how students can gain hands-on experience, while blockchain technology was discussed for securing academic credentials, aligning with ACE Impact’s commitment to institutional quality and resilience.

A Panel Discussion Session
A Panel Discussion Session
VC of the National Open University of Nigeria, Prof. Olufemi Peters, delivering his welcome address at the ACETEL eLearning Conference
VC of the National Open University of Nigeria, Prof. Olufemi Peters, delivering his welcome address at the ACETEL eLearning Conference

A major outcome of the conference was the reinforcement of partnerships across academia, industry, and government. Panel discussions underscored the value of public-private collaborations, a core ACE Impact principle, to ensure the longevity and scalability of digital learning. ACETEL’s alliances with NITDA and NOUN are instrumental in advancing Nigeria’s tech-education sector and achieving the ACE Impact project’s vision of a digitally inclusive African education system.

Participants asking thought-provoking questions and making insightful contributions to the confenrence during the Q&A Session and
Participants asking thought-provoking questions and making insightful contributions to the confenrence during the Q&A Session and

The ACETEL eLearning Conference showcased the ACE Impact project’s transformative influence on African higher education, emphasizing technology’s power to expand access, foster innovation, and meet regional development needs. As the conference concluded, participants reaffirmed their dedication to driving forward the digital transformation launched by ACE Impact, with a focus on innovation, expanding educational access, and preparing African institutions to thrive in the global digital economy.

Some people with disabilities in attendance at the ACETEL eLearning Conference
Some people with disabilities in attendance at the ACETEL eLearning Conference

Africa’s Digital Learning Revolution: ACETEL Conference Sets Path for Higher Education Transformation

In today’s fast-evolving digital age, higher education in Africa faces an urgent call to adapt, innovate, and prepare students for a competitive global landscape. Recognizing this critical need, the Africa Centre of Excellence on Technology-Enhanced Learning (ACETEL) hosted a groundbreaking e-learning conference from October 2-4, 2024, in collaboration with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

A keynote address by the Secretary-General of the Association of African Universities (AAU) underscored AAU’s ambitious digitization agenda, a core part of its 2024-2030 strategic plan. As AAU leads the ACE Impact project with 54 Centers of Excellence across Africa, including ACETEL, it remains dedicated to pioneering a resilient, tech-enabled educational future for the continent.

Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic’s lessons, Professor Oyewole spoke passionately about the need for African education to transcend traditional classroom boundaries. “Education must be accessible, inclusive, and adaptable to the digital age,” he asserted, highlighting the AAU’s commitment to reducing access disparities through technology, particularly in rural regions.

The ACETEL conference highlighted the center’s contributions to AAU’s digital vision, with ACETEL’s Director, Professor Grace Jokthan, commended for her leadership in implementing hybrid and blended learning models. This approach aligns with AAU’s mission to create a workforce-ready education system and has positioned ACETEL as a leader in African digital learning innovation.

While acknowledging progress, Professor Oyewole also called attention to the infrastructure gaps and connectivity challenges impeding widespread e-learning adoption. “Equitable digital access is essential if we are to avoid deepening educational divides,” he urged, stressing AAU’s advocacy for increased investment in digital resources across African institutions.

AAU Secretary General, Prof. Olusola Oyewole, delivering a keynote address at the ACETEL eLearning Conference in Abuja
AAU Secretary General, Prof. Olusola Oyewole, delivering a keynote address at the ACETEL eLearning Conference in Abuja

Lifelong learning was another key theme, with Professor Oyewole emphasizing that education should not end at graduation. “Our students must be ready to learn continuously, evolving with the global economy,” he said, reflecting AAU’s vision of fostering future-ready learning ecosystems that remain agile to global trends.

ACETEL’s partnerships with NOUN and NITDA were showcased as models of collaborative success, exemplifying how academia, government, and industry can work together to drive digital innovation in African higher education. Professor Oyewole encouraged African universities to strengthen networks locally and globally to advance the region’s digital education agenda.

“Education is a shared responsibility,” he concluded. Professor Oyewole thus took the lead in reaffirming AAU’s commitment to supporting technology-enhanced learning across the continent. He emphasized that AAU, through its digitization agenda, will continue to provide leadership in advocating digital transformation, capacity building, and innovation in African higher education.

“AAU stands ready to work hand-in-hand with our member institutions to drive the digital transformation of African higher education. Together, we can build a future where no student is denied the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to the development of our continent,” Professor Oyewole concluded.

 

As reflected in Professor Oyewole’s keynote address during ACETEL’s eLearning Conference, the future of African education lies in embracing the power of digital learning. With initiatives like ACETEL and the ACE Impact project, backed by AAU’s strategic commitment to digitization, Africa is well-positioned to meet the educational challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. The path forward is clear: African universities must continue to innovate, collaborate, and harness the potential of technology to inspire the next generation of leaders and thinkers.

 

Driving Innovation and Excellence: ACE Impact Project’s Groundbreaking Achievements

Transforming Higher Education in Africa

Across West Africa and Djibouti, a remarkable transformation is underway in postgraduate education, research, and innovation. The Africa Higher Education Centers of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) project is at the heart of this revolution, addressing critical challenges in higher education and positioning Africa as a global hub for knowledge and innovation.

With 54 centers of excellence, the project is surpassing key performance indicators, accelerating groundbreaking research, increasing student enrollment, and strengthening industry-academia linkages. Through strategic partnerships and sustained investments, ACE Impact is setting a new benchmark for higher education excellence in Africa.

Since its inception, the World Bank, the Association of African Universities (AAU), and the French Development Agency (AFD) have convened bi-annual workshops to review project progress, provide technical support, address challenges, and share best practices. These collaborative engagements have been pivotal in keeping the project on course while equipping institutions with the tools to navigate emerging challenges.

Record-Breaking Progress: The Numbers Speak

Operating under a results-based financing model, the ACE Impact project ensures that funding is directly linked to performance, driving efficiency and accountability. During the 12th ACE Impact Regional Workshop held on October 22, 2024, the latest results showcased impressive strides: The project has enrolled a total of 10,363 students in master’s programs (101% of the target) and enabled 17,676 participants to complete short courses (115%). Female participation has also been notable, with 9,892 women enrolled (115%). Additionally, the project has supported 10,425 regional students (109%) and provided 7,219 students with internships (103%). These numbers reflect the project’s unwavering commitment to building Africa’s next generation of skilled professionals and innovators.

Accelerating Infrastructure Development

With 24 out of 46 (those committed to construction) centers across six countries (Burkina Faso, Djibouti, Ghana, Guinea, Nigeria, and Togo) completing all construction works, ACE Impact is rapidly modernizing Africa’s academic landscape. By December 2024, an estimated 70% of all civil works under the project would be completed, with a clear roadmap to finalize all infrastructural projects by June 2025. Dr. Sylvia Mkandawire, Senior Project Manager, emphasized the urgency of completing all outstanding work and mobilizing support to ensure smooth project closure.

Developing Groundbreaking Innovations

Beyond infrastructure, ACE Impact is fueling innovation across diverse sectors, including health, agriculture, STEM, and environmental sciences. The centers of excellence under the ACE Impact project continue to make strides in innovative research breakthroughs, contributing to development in the sub-region through groundbreaking solutions across various thematic disciplines, including health, agriculture, STEM, environment, and education over the past five years.

During the workshop, Dr. Mkandawire highlighted notable health-related innovations emerging from three key centers in Nigeria: The African Center of Excellence for Population Health and Policy (ACEPHAP, Nigeria), the Africa Centre of Excellence for Public Health and Toxicological Research (PUTOR, Nigeria), and the African Center of Excellence for Reproductive Health Innovation (CERHI, Nigeria).

At ACEPHAP, the center has successfully calibrated a blood collection drape designed for birthing mothers to monitor blood loss, enabling timely interventions aimed at preventing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Also receiving recognition at the workshop was ACE PUTOR for implementing electronic medical records (EMR) systems in police hospitals across Nigeria to enhance healthcare delivery and data management, providing comprehensive digital patient records that improve efficiency and reduce errors. Additionally, CERHI has developed the Text4Life App, a mobile health program designed to enhance health literacy in rural communities. Through SMS communication, the app delivers personalized health information on critical topics, such as maternal health, and connects women in rural areas with emergency transport and obstetric care.

The African Centre of Excellence for Mycotoxin and Food Safety (ACEMFS) also in Nigeria was recognised for providing funding support to young innovators, empowering them to develop solutions for food security and safety.

Strengthening Community Ties

Providing community outreach interventions remains a vital part of the ACE Impact project’s success as it fosters collaboration between the academic centers and the local populations they aim to serve. In her update, Dr. Mkandawire indicated that the project’s impact continues to extend beyond the centers and their immediate university communities. Centers such as the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious and Non- Communicable Diseases (WACCBIP), the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI), and the Covenant Applied Informatics and Communication (CApIC) all focused on health have made significant contributions to their local communities by organizing various health screenings in Ghana and Nigeria. The health screenings have resulted in several impacts such as the early detection of diseases, prevention of complications, enhanced quality of lives and reductions of the public health burdens.

Recognizing Excellence: ACE Leaders Gaining Global Acclaim

The ACE Impact project is not just changing institutions, it is  elevating African researchers and academics to the global stage. The workshop served as a platform to honor several center leaders for their remarkable milestones in research and development in the last 6 months. Outstanding figures include Prof. Amina Galadanci of ACEPHAP, featured in Times magazine for her impactful healthcare innovation; Prof. Saidou Madougou (MS4SSA), appointed as the Director of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation at the African Union Commission (AUC); and Prof. Abdoulaye Diabaté (CEA-ITECH/MTTV), whose groundbreaking malaria research on gene drive technology has been showcased on Netflix. Additionally, Prof. Solomon F. Ofori-Acquah has been appointed to lead the Georgia Research Alliance (GRA), focusing on addressing the sickle cell disease. Prof. Christian Happi of ACEGID has been profiled by the Pulitzer Center for his pioneering research in genomics, while Prof. Ousmane Ndiaye of CEA SAMEF has been elected to the independent electoral committee of the International Pediatric Association (AIP).

ACE @10: A Decade of Excellence in Higher Education

In 2025, the ACE Impact project will celebrate 10 years of transforming higher education in Africa. As part of the road map to the celebrations, all 54 centers of excellence are encouraged to hold center-level events, leading up to the grand ACE @10 event in 2025. So far, WACCBIP – Ghana, ACEGID – Nigeria, ACECoR – Ghana, and WACCI-Ghana have set the pace by hosting their events, with CEFTER (Nigeria) and GTEC (Ghana) scheduled for November 2024.

What’s Next? Securing the Future of ACE Impact

Looking ahead, the ACE Impact project is focused on; promoting the project achievements and scaling the ACE model, ensuring country and center – level ACE@10 celebrations as a way of reaching out to local and regional partnerships, hosting the ACE@10 grand celebrations and project closure, engaging development partners for potential future initiatives on ACE. The impact of ACE Impact is undeniable. Through its pioneering work in education, research, and innovation, the project is reshaping Africa’s knowledge economy and securing a brighter future for the continent.

Ensuring Accountability and Excellence: The Verification of ACE Impact Project Outcomes

A Results-Based Approach to Higher Education Transformation

The Africa Higher Education Centers of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) project has redefined higher education financing in Africa, ensuring that investments translate into tangible improvements in academic quality, research output, and regional collaboration. At the heart of this transformation is the project’s results-based financing model, which ties funding directly to verifiable achievements.

During the 12th ACE Impact Regional Workshop, held virtually on October 22, 2024, the critical process of verifying project outcomes continued to take center stage, with experts and stakeholders reviewing progress, challenges, and the road ahead.

Results-Based Financing: Driving Impact with Accountability

Unlike traditional funding models, where resources are allocated upfront, ACE Impact operates on a performance-driven approach. Universities receive funding only when they achieve specific, pre-agreed Disbursement-Linked Indicators (DLIs), measurable goals designed to enhance the quality, relevance, and developmental impact of postgraduate education.

The Association of African Universities (AAU, serving as the Regional Facilitation Unit (RFU) alongside the World Bank, Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and independent evaluators such as Technopolis and subject-matter experts, oversee the rigorous monitoring and verification process. This independent assessment ensures that reported results are valid, transparent, and trustworthy, strengthening credibility and accountability across the 54 participating centers.

For the 11 African governments involved in the project, this model offers multiple benefits: Stronger accountability mechanisms, ensuring that investments yield measurable results, Improved project implementation efficiency, with clear incentives for performance, More effective resource allocation, directing funding toward high-impact initiatives.

How Verification Works: A Structured Process

The results verification process follows a structured timeline, requiring Centers of Excellence to submit data on achieved results under specific DLIs for designated periods. These submissions must adhere to a strict verification protocol, including detailed reporting templates and supporting documents.

  • Initial Review: AAU’s RFU team assesses the reports, providing feedback, requesting clarifications, and ensuring data accuracy.
  • Verification Exercise: Independent evaluators conduct combined approaches either on-site and remote verifications, confirming the authenticity of submitted results.
  • Disbursement Approval: Upon successful verification, the RFU issues official verification letters to the World Bank and AFD, with copies sent to each center
  • Funding Release: The World Bank and AFD issue disbursement letters, triggering the release of funds through participating governments.

This meticulous process ensures integrity and transparency, reinforcing ACE Impact’s commitment to measurable progress.

Performance Highlights: DLI Achievement Rates as of October 2024

The ACE Impact Centers are classified into two groups — 1st ACE Impact (23 ACEs in Burkina Faso, Djibouti, Ghana, Guinea, and Senegal) and 2nd ACE Impact (31 ACEs in Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Niger, Nigeria, and Togo) —based on when the projects became effective.

At the 12th regional workshop, Mrs. Adeline Addy, the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Manager, reported that the 1st ACE Impact Centers had attained a Disbursement-linked Indicator achievement rate of 86% marking a 5-point increase since May 2024. Performance was particularly strong under Student Enrolment (95%), Education Relevance (93%) and Fiduciary Management (90%).

For the 2nd ACE Impact Centers, the DLI achievement rate was reported at 84%, representing a 7-point increase since May 2024. This group excelled in Student Enrollment (90%), Relevance of Education/Research (86%) and Quality of Education/Research (80%).

Results Verification of the ACE Impact Project – activities, results, earnings and bottlenecks

Mrs. Adeline Addy reported that the total potential earnings from June to October 2024 amounted to US$22,646,563, with the 1st ACE Impact centers receiving 34% and the 2nd ACE Impact centers 66% of this total.

She noted that verification of the Development Impact of the respective projects was ongoing and expected to conclude by the end of November 2024. Additionally, the final verification round for PhD, MSc and Professional Short Course students, Research Publications and Internships began on 20th September 2024, and will be completed in December 2024, marking the last verification round for these particular results.

Mrs. Addy highlighted several challenges encountered in the verification process, including errors in submitted data, ineligibility and duplication of results, submission through unapproved channels, and use of non-recognized agencies, particularly for self-evaluations and gap assessments. She recommended that Centers ensure data accuracy before submission, especially during “grace periods.” Centers should adhere to eligibility criteria, provide supporting documents, and report issues to the RFU. She emphasized that all results must be submitted via the online platform unless otherwise directed by the RFU and advised Centers to use only approved accreditation agencies or seek clearance prior to engaging them. Centers were encouraged to consult the AAU/WB Team with any concerns.

Mrs. Addy informed Centers that the current verification round for Student, Internship, and Research Publication results is the final one.

She also presented the verification and disbursement schedule through the project’s end in June 2025:

  • The first disbursement deadline is November 2024, targeting all DLIs except DLRs 2.2 (Development Impact), 3.1, 3.2, 3.4 (PhD, MSc, and BSc Students), 4.2 (Research Publications), and 5.2 (Internships).
  • The second disbursement deadline is early February 2025, covering all DLIs, including the student, internship, and publication results currently under verification.
  • The third and final disbursement is scheduled for April 2025 and will focus on a mop-up exercise for all DLRs except student, internship, and publication results.

With ACE Impact set to conclude in June 2025, ensuring a smooth, well-executed closure is paramount. The AAU, World Bank, AFD, and participating African governments remain steadfast in their commitment to supporting ACE Centers in reaching 100% completion of their targets.

By maintaining transparency, efficiency, and results-driven accountability, the project is not only reshaping Africa’s higher education landscape but also laying the foundation for sustainable academic and research excellence across the continent.

Press Release-Transforming Higher Education in Africa: ACE Impact Project Reflects on Achievements as it Nears Conclusion

Accra, Ghana (October 16, 2024) – The World Bank, Agence française de développement (AFD), and the Association of African Universities (AAU) are excited to announce the 12th Africa Higher Education Centres of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) Regional Workshop, which will take place virtually on October 22, 2024, at 09:00 GMT.

The ACE Impact project, launched in Djibouti in 2019, is now in its final phase, with just eight months remaining until its closure in June 2025. As part of the project’s implementation arrangements, stakeholders convene twice annually to provide feedback, address emerging challenges, and ensure the project remains on track.

The AAU has played a pivotal role in coordinating regional activities, monitoring and evaluating project progress, building the capacity of the Centers of Excellence, and sharing best practices across participating countries. Continuing this commitment, the 12th ACE Impact Regional will bring together key stakeholders, including directors and teams from the 54 Centers of Excellence under the ACE Impact Project and representatives from their respective governments, development partners, the World Bank and AFD, Vice Chancellors, and other key higher education stakeholders from the region.

As the project approaches its closure, this workshop is crucial for consolidating the achievements made thus far and addressing any outstanding challenges to ensure the timely completion of critical activities and achievement of project objectives.

 

The workshop will focus on:

  1. Reviewing progress toward achieving project objectives.
  2. Providing technical and operational support to resolve challenges at the center and national levels, particularly in procurement, civil works, and fund utilization.
  3. Offering guidance on project closure requirements.

 

The 12th ACE Impact Regional Workshop will also serve as a lead-up to the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the ACE Program launched in 2014. The ACE@10 initiative, launched during the 10th ACE Impact Regional Workshop in Abidjan on October 31, 2023, honors the project’s achievements and its transformative impact on higher education across Africa over the past decade.

A closed-door Project Steering Committee meeting is scheduled to take place on October 21, 2024, prior to the workshop. This meeting will bring together government representatives and project partners to provide strategic guidance on the project’s final steps toward successful completion.

In addition to the main workshop, a series of specialized sessions focusing specifically on Monitoring & Evaluation, Finance, Procurement, and Environmental and Social Safeguards as well as country-specific roundtable discussions will take place during the month of November 2024.

Media Contact:

For media inquiries or to cover the event, please reach out to Mrs. Millicent Afriyie Adjei at makyei@aau.org

About the ACE Project

The Africa Higher Education Centres of Excellence (ACE) Project is a World Bank flagship initiative in collaboration with governments of participating countries to support Higher Education institutions in specializing in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Agriculture, and Health. It is the first World Bank’s regional response towards higher education in Africa. The first phase (ACE I) was launched in 2014 establishing 22 Centres of Excellence in Nine (9) West and Central African countries; Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal and Togo. The Project aims to promote regional specialization among participating universities in areas that address specific common regional development challenges. It also aims to strengthen the capacities of these universities to deliver high quality training and applied research as well as meet the demand for skills required for Africa’s development. The second phase (ACE II) was launched in East and Southern Africa with 24 centers across Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia.

Based on the initial successes, the World Bank and the French Development Agency (AFD) in collaboration with the African governments, launched the Africa Higher Education Centres of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) Project in 2018 to strengthen post-graduate training and applied research in existing fields and support new fields that are essential for Africa’s economic growth. The new areas include sustainable cities; sustainable power and energy; social sciences and education; transport; population health and policy; herbal medicine development and regulatory sciences; public health; applied informatics and communication; and pastoral production. There are 54 centers of excellence for the third phase, also referred to as ACE Impact.

For more information, visit https://ace.aau.org/

ACECoR’s Leadership in Marine Conservation Propels UCC to Global Recognition

The Africa Centre of Excellence in Coastal Resilience (ACECoR) is making waves in marine conservation, driving the University of Cape Coast (UCC) to a prestigious position in the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. UCC’s remarkable achievements in the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Life Below Water have positioned the university as Ghana’s top-ranked institution, 3rd in West Africa, and 16th across Africa.

This recognition highlights UCC’s pivotal role in sustainable marine resource management, coastal ecosystem protection, and combating marine pollution, all of which are anchored in ACECoR’s groundbreaking initiatives. The center has become a critical force in addressing major environmental challenges such as unregulated fishing, ocean acidification, and biodiversity preservation, earning UCC global acclaim.

ACECoR’s Key Contributions to Marine Conservation

  1. Establishment of Marine Protected Areas
    One of the center’s most impactful projects is the Coastal and Marine Conservation Drive Project (COMADRIP). This initiative spearheaded the creation of a pilot Marine Protected Area (MPA) management strategy for the Greater Cape Three Points area in Ghana. The project played a crucial role in the designation of a 700 km² MPA, which is set to be officially established in 2026. This protected area will safeguard marine biodiversity, foster sustainable fishing practices, and ensure the long-term health of the coastal ecosystem.
  2. Women Shell fishers and Food Security Project
    In collaboration with the University of Rhode Island and supported by USAID, ACECoR is championing the Women Shell fishers and Food Security Project, which spans 11 West African coastal communities, including Senegal and Nigeria. This project not only promotes gender inclusivity but also strengthens food security by empowering women in shellfish co-management. ACECoR’s leadership in conducting the first regional assessment of women-led shellfish co-management and producing six technical studies from Ghana and The Gambia has elevated the potential for sustainable shellfishery practices across the region.
  3. Community Outreach and Education
    ACECoR’s outreach and education programs are crucial to its success, directly engaging coastal communities to promote sustainable fishing practices. These initiatives empower local populations to take ownership of marine conservation, fostering environmental stewardship at the grassroots level. By instilling a sense of responsibility among those who rely most on marine resources, ACECoR ensures its conservation efforts are sustainable and community driven.
  4. Capacity Building and Training
    ACECoR plays a key role in building the capacity of stakeholders in marine resource management. Through specialized training programs, the center equips fishermen, policymakers, and researchers with the skills needed to manage marine ecosystems sustainably. This emphasis on capacity building is creating a new generation of marine conservation experts, positioning Ghana as a leader in the preservation of coastal and marine environments.
  5. Cutting-Edge Research Informing Policy
    At the heart of ACECoR’s work is its commitment to cutting-edge research that tackles key challenges such as pollution control, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable fisheries. This research informs national and regional policy, providing critical evidence-based recommendations to improve marine conservation strategies. The center’s ability to influence policymaking highlights its role in shaping Ghana’s and West Africa’s approach to marine conservation.
ACECoR- Narkwa Oyster Harvesters Association, Ghana (NOHA) members undergoing leadership, advocacy and basic water quality monitoring training
ACECoR- Narkwa Oyster Harvesters Association, Ghana (NOHA) members undergoing leadership, advocacy and basic water quality monitoring training

A Continental Leader in Marine Conservation

ACECoR’s efforts have solidified UCC’s status as a trailblazer in marine conservation, not only in Ghana but across Africa. The center’s contributions underscore the powerful role that academic institutions can play in addressing global environmental challenges. By pioneering innovative solutions and fostering sustainable practices, ACECoR is leading the charge toward a more resilient future for coastal and marine ecosystems.

The recognition UCC has received in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings is a testament to ACECoR’s transformative work. As the center continues to drive marine conservation efforts, it is helping to shape a future where coastal communities and marine life can thrive in harmony.

Championing Environmental Sustainability: Global Efforts, Regional Initiatives, the Role of World Bank’s ACE Impact Project

Environmental sustainability is no longer a distant concern but a critical issue that demands immediate action. As climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss threaten our planet, global and regional efforts are accelerating to protect the environment for future generations. Among these efforts is the Africa Centres of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) project, a testament to the power of research, education, and innovation in addressing environmental challenges across Africa.

Global Efforts in Environmental Sustainability

On the global front, several initiatives are paving the way for a more sustainable future. The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, continues to be a cornerstone in the fight against climate change, with countries committing to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius. Similarly, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a comprehensive framework, with specific goals dedicated to climate action, life below water, and life on land. Organizations such as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) provide critical scientific assessments that guide global climate policies, while numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) advocate for environmental protection and sustainable practices.

Regional Initiatives in Environmental Sustainability

While global efforts set the overarching agenda, regional initiatives tailor sustainability strategies to local contexts and challenges. In Africa for instance, initiatives like the African Union’s Agenda 2063 emphasises sustainable development, with projects focused on reforestation, conservation, and building climate resilience across the continent.

Despite the several global and regional initiatives, enduring challenges such as extreme weather events, rising sea levels, deforestation, and pollution, with their attendant far-reaching and devastating consequences, highlight the urgent need for continued and enhanced efforts to create a sustainable environment.

World Bank’s Climate Change support through regional initiatives

In response to these growing challenges, the World Bank has taken a leading role in promoting environmental sustainability. Through its Climate Change Action Plan, the World Bank integrates climate considerations into its development efforts, financing projects that promote renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and climate resilience across the globe.

 

The ACE Impact Project

A flagship initiative supported by the World Bank, the Africa Centres of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) project is a vital player in addressing regional development challenges through education and research. The project focuses on critical areas including:

  1. Environmental Management and Climate Change: Equipping institutions with the expertise and resources needed to tackle environmental challenges.
  2. Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting environmentally sound agricultural practices to ensure food security and resource conservation.
  3. Water Resources Management: Enhancing the sustainable management of water resources for development and resilience.
  4. Renewable Energy: Supporting renewable energy projects to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Areas of Engagement

The World Bank, through its ACE Impact project, established seven (7) centers of excellence focusing on safeguarding the environment in various capacities including coastal resilience, water and sanitation, and sustainable mining activities. These centers are ACE in Water and Sanitation (C2EA), University of Abomey- Calavi, Benin; ACE for Training and Research in Water Science and Technology, 2iE, Burkina Faso; ACE in Mines and Mining Environment (CEA-MEM), INP-HB, Ivory Coast; ACE in Valorization of Waste into High Value-Added Products (VALOPRO), INP-HB, Ivory Coast; ACE in Climate Change, Biodiversity and Sustainable Agriculture (CEA-CCBAD), Félix Houphouët-Boigny University, Ivory Coast; Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre Kumasi (RWESCK), KNUST, Ghana; Africa Centre of Excellence in Coastal Resilience (ACECoR), University of Cape Coast, Ghana; Center for Mines and Societies (CEMS), Institute of Mines and Geology Boké, Guinea. The centre’s focus span;

  1. Capacity Building: Strengthening institutions and human capital through education and training to address environmental challenges.
  2. Research and Innovation: Supporting research initiatives that lead to innovative solutions for sustainability.
  3. Policy and Advocacy: Assisting governments in formulating and implementing policies that promote environmental sustainability.
  4. Community Involvement: Engaging local communities in sustainable practices and raising awareness about environmental issues to ensure environmental sustainability.

Conclusion

Environmental sustainability is a global imperative that requires a collaborative at all levels, global, regional, and local. Initiatives like the Paris Agreements and the SDGs set the stage , but regional initiatives like ACE Impact, are where meaningful, context-specific change happens. Through education, research, policy, and community involvement, the ACE Impact project is playing a pivotal role in securing a healthier, more resilient planet for future generations.

Pioneering Innovations in Water Management, Environmental Protection, and Sustainable Development (RWESCK, KNUST)

The Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Kumasi (RWESCK) based at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST, Ghana) is making waves in water management, environmental protection, and sustainable development.  With cutting -edge research and impactful technologies, RWESCK is positioning itself as a leader in solving some of Ghana’s most pressing environmental challenges

Through innovative projects like non- intrusive water leakage detection and UAV surveillance of illegal mining, the center is delivering practical solutions that promise to transform industries, safeguard ecosystems, and drive sustainable growth.

RWESCK’s standout initiatives

  • Revolutionizing Water Management: Passive Acoustic Sensing for Water Leakage Detection

    RWESCK in collaboration with the Community Water and Sanitation Agency (CWSA), is developing a passive acoustic sensing system to detect water leaks without the need for direct contact with pipelines. This Innovation is led by Dr. Kwame Sarkodie from the Department of Petroleum Engineering, is a game changer in water management. The system, which uses machine learning, and advanced signal processing, aims to improve the efficiency and accuracy of water leakage detection, while minimizing disruptions to infrastructure.  By revolutionizing how leaks are identified, the project will not only help conserve Ghana’s water resources but also support the country’s water distribution networks, ensuring they are more reliable and sustainable.

RWESCK-Experimental flow loop
RWESCK-Experimental flow loop

  • Robotics and AI: The Future Water Leakage Detection

Building on its expertise in water management, RWESCK is also leading a project that integrates robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) for leak detection, another collaboration with CWSA. A team led by Dr. Sarkodie, Dr. Faisal Adams from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, and Dr. Kwame Oteng Gyasi from Telecommunications Engineering is developing robotic systems that can navigate pipelines and collect real-time acoustic data.

RWESCK- Acoustic senor heads and data acquisition module
RWESCK- Acoustic senor heads and data acquisition module

This cutting-edge technology allows for efficient, non-intrusive detection of leaks, offering timely interventions. The use of robotics and AI marks a significant leap forward in managing water infrastructure, ensuring the longevity and integrity of the systems that serve millions of Ghanaians.

 

  • Protecting the Environment: UAV Technology for Monitoring Illegal Mining

Illegal mining, or “galamsey” (as called in Ghana), continues to devastate Ghana’s environment. RWESCK’s response to this pressing challenge is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) project led by Dr. Faisal Wahib Adam. The UAV, equipped with high-resolution cameras and advanced controls, offers real-time surveillance of illegal mining activities.

This project not only supports law enforcement but also reinforces RWESCK’s commitment to environmental conservation. By using cutting-edge technology to combat illegal mining, the center is helping preserve Ghana’s natural resources and promoting sustainable practices that will benefit future generations.

 

  • Sustainability at Its Best: Rotary Dryer for Food Waste Processing

Tackling food waste and sustainability, RWESCK alumnus Joseph Kwarko-Kyei has developed a rotary dryer that processes food waste into powder for animal feed. This innovative solution addresses the growing issue of food waste management while offering new opportunities for sustainable agriculture.

RWESCK-Rotary Dryer
RWESCK-Rotary Dryer

The rotary dryer’s versatility extends to producing organic fertilizers, reducing Ghana’s reliance on chemical imports. This project exemplifies how RWESCK’s research is not only solving immediate waste problems but also contributing to the country’s broader goals of food security and sustainable farming.

RWESCK’s projects underscore the power of collaboration between academia, industry, and government bodies like CWSA. The center’s focus on practical solutions, supported by cutting-edge research and technology, ensures that it remains at the forefront of addressing critical water management and environmental challenges in Ghana.

With a focus on sustainable development, RWESCK is set to transform industries, protect natural resources, and inspire a future where technology and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. By pushing the boundaries of innovation, RWESCK is not just solving today’s problems, but it is laying the foundation for a better, more sustainable tomorrow.

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