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.
Accra, Ghana (16 octobre 2024) – La Banque mondiale, l’Agence française de Développement (AFD) et l’Association des Universités Africaines (AUA) ont le plaisir d’annoncer le 12e atelier régional des Centres d’Excellence Africains pour l’Impact sur le Développement (CEA Impact), qui se tiendra virtuellement le 22 octobre 2024, à 09h00 GMT.
Le projet CEA Impact, lancé à Djibouti en 2019, est désormais dans sa phase finale, avec seulement huit mois avant sa clôture en juin 2025. Dans le cadre des dispositions de mise en œuvre du projet, les parties prenantes se réunissent deux fois par an pour fournir un retour d’information, relever les défis émergents et veiller à ce que le projet reste sur la bonne voie.
L’AAU a joué un rôle crucial dans la coordination des activités régionales, le Suivi-Evaluation des progrès des projets, le renforcement des capacités des centres d’excellence et le partage des meilleures pratiques entre les pays participants. Poursuivant cet engagement, la 12e édition de l’atelier régional du CEA Impact réunira les principales parties prenantes, notamment les directeurs et les équipes des 54 centres d’excellence du projet CEA Impact et les représentants de leurs gouvernements respectifs, les partenaires de développement, la Banque mondiale et l’AFD, les vice-chanceliers et d’autres acteurs clés de l’enseignement supérieur de la région.
Alors que le projet touche à sa fin, cet atelier est essentiel pour consolider les résultats obtenus jusqu’à présent et pour relever les défis en suspens afin de garantir l’achèvement des activités essentielles et la réalisation des objectifs du projet dans les délais impartis.
L’atelier portera sur :
L’évaluation des progrès réalisés en vue d’atteindre les objectifs du projet.
L’apport d’un soutien technique et opérationnel pour résoudre les problèmes au niveau central et national, en particulier en ce qui concerne la passation des marchés, les travaux de génie civil et l’utilisation des fonds.
L’offre de conseils sur les exigences de clôture du projet.
Le 12e atelier régional CEA Impact servira également de préparation à la célébration du 10e anniversaire du programme CEA lancé en 2014. L’initiative ACE@10, lancée lors du 10e Atelier régional du CEA Impact à Abidjan le 31 octobre 2023, honore les réalisations du projet et son impact transformateur sur l’enseignement supérieur à travers l’Afrique au cours de la dernière décennie.
Une réunion à huis clos du Comité de Pilotage du Projet est prévue le 21 octobre 2024, avant l’atelier. Cette réunion réunira des représentants du gouvernement et des partenaires du projet pour fournir des orientations stratégiques sur les dernières étapes du projet en vue de son achèvement réussi.
En plus de l’atelier principal, une série de sessions spécialisées axées spécifiquement sur le suivi-évaluation, les finances, la passation des marchés et les sauvegardes environnementales et sociales, ainsi que des tables rondes spécifiques à chaque pays, auront lieu au cours du mois de novembre 2024.
Contact média:
Pour toute demande de renseignements de la part des médias ou pour couvrir l’événement, veuillez contacter Mme Millicent Afriyie Adjei à l’adresse makyei@aau.org
À propos du projet CEA
Le projet Centres d’Excellence de l’Enseignement Supérieur Africain (CEA) est une initiative phare de la Banque mondiale en collaboration avec les gouvernements des pays participants pour aider les établissements d’enseignement supérieur à se spécialiser dans les domaines des Sciences, Tde la technologie, de l’Ingénierie et des Mathématiques (STIM), de l’Agriculture et de la Santé. Il est le premier projet régional de la Banque mondiale dans le domaine de l’enseignement supérieur en Afrique. La première phase (CEA I) a été lancée en 2014 avec la création de 22 centres d’excellence dans neuf (9) pays d’Afrique de l’Ouest et du Centre: Bénin, Burkina Faso, Cameroun, Côte d’Ivoire, Gambie, Ghana, Nigéria, Sénégal et Togo. Le projet vise à promouvoir la spécialisation régionale des universités participantes dans des domaines qui répondent à des défis régionaux communs spécifiques de développement. Il vise également à renforcer les capacités de ces universités à offrir une formation de haute qualité et une recherche appliquée ainsi qu’à répondre à la demande de compétences requises pour le développement de l’Afrique. La deuxième phase (CEA II) a été lancée en Afrique de l’Est et du Sud avec 24 centres en Éthiopie, au Kenya, au Malawi, au Mozambique, au Rwanda, en Tanzanie, en Ouganda et en Zambie.
Fortes de ces premiers succès, la Banque mondiale et l’Agence française de Développement (AFD), en collaboration avec les gouvernements africains, ont lancé en 2018 le projet Centres d’Excellence de l’Enseignement Supérieur Africain pour l’Impact sur le Développement (CEA Impact) afin de renforcer la formation postuniversitaire et la recherche appliquée dans les domaines existants et de soutenir de nouveaux domaines essentiels à la croissance économique de l’Afrique. Les nouveaux domaines comprennent les villes durables ; l’énergie et l’électricité durables ; les sciences sociales et l’éducation ; les transports ; la santé et les politiques de la population ; le développement de la phytothérapie et les sciences réglementaires ; la santé publique ; l’informatique appliquée et la communication ; et la production pastorale. La troisième phase, également appelée CEA Impact, compte 54 centres d’excellence.
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.
Providing technical and operational support to resolve challenges at the center and national levels, particularly in procurement, civil works, and fund utilization.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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:
Environmental Management and Climate Change: Equipping institutions with the expertise and resources needed to tackle environmental challenges.
Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting environmentally sound agricultural practices to ensure food security and resource conservation.
Water Resources Management: Enhancing the sustainable management of water resources for development and resilience.
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;
Capacity Building: Strengthening institutions and human capital through education and training to address environmental challenges.
Research and Innovation: Supporting research initiatives that lead to innovative solutions for sustainability.
Policy and Advocacy: Assisting governments in formulating and implementing policies that promote environmental sustainability.
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.
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
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
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
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.
In the current era where global academic and scientific collaboration is more important than ever the ACE Partner project stands as a beacon of innovation in health, technology, and the environment. A collaborative effort between the World Bank, the French Development Agency, the Institute of Research for Development, and the Association of African Universities, the ACE Partner project has made substantial strides in strengthening global ties and addressing sustainable development challenges across West Africa.
At the core of this success are the four networks of excellence driving this transformative initiative: the West African Network for Infectious Diseases ACEs (WANIDA), the Digital Science and Technology Network (DSTN), the Responsible Mining and Sustainable Development Network (RAM2D), and the Sustainable Water Management Network (RES-EAU). Each Network has contributed significantly, producing impactful scientific research, fostering global partnerships, and creating blueprints for regional development.
WANIDA’s Contribution – Addressing infectious diseases through collaboration
WANIDA has taken great strides in addressing infectious diseases, highlighting the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health. A significant milestone came in March 2023 where WANIDA hosted its inaugural symposium in Ghana, attracting over 500 experts from 152 institutions across 31 countries from Africa, United Kingdom, the United States of America and France. The symposium not only showcased cutting edge research but also reinforced WANIDA’S commitment to multidisciplinary collaborations. The Symposium’s My Thesis in 3 Minutes challenge showcased students’ research skills in infectious diseases, and a rewarded of the top the winners receiving €4,000 to advance their work.
The winning thesis focused on innovative research into infectious diseases, particularly in West Africa. It focused on addressing a critical issue related to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of infectious diseases prevalent in the region. The project stood out for its potential to contribute significantly to public health through the development of new diagnostic tools, treatment strategies, and public health interventions tailored to the unique challenges of West Africa. The presenters’ ability to clearly and concisely communicate the essence and impact of their research within a three-minute timeframe was crucial to their success in the competition. This achievement also highlights WANIDA’s recognition of effectively translating complex scientific research into accessible information that can drive real-world change.
Participants at the WANIDA Symposium
WANIDA’s participation at global events such as the 15th International Congress of Parasitology (ICOPA) in Denmark further amplified its influence, with presentations on treatments for a parasitic disease called schistosomiasis and how to control the snails that spread it. studies on malaria were highlighted, specifically focusing on the spread of the disease and the behaviour of the parasite that causes it. Additionally, the WANIDA researchers explored how certain chemicals could be used to target the parasite that causes another severe disease called trypanosomiasis. Finally, they looked at how a type of bacteria called Wolbachia could help reduce the spread of malaria by affecting the mosquitoes that carry the disease. WANIDA is providing that local research can have global implications, driving impactful solutions to some of the West Africa’s most pressing health challenges.
DSTN’s Contribution: Pioneering Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development
Digital Science and Technology Network (DSTN) has been a catalyst for digital transformation in Africa. With the increasing importance of digital infrastructure, the DSTN has spearheaded initiatives that bridge the gap between academia, industry, and policy. The DSTN symposium in December 2021 in Senegal underscored the importance of digital science and technology in achieving sustainable development. The event brought together key stakeholders to discuss the intersection of research, innovation, and technology transfer. The outcome culminated into a Joint Manifesto outlining key recommendations for Africa’s digital development.
DSTN’s influence reached global platforms, including the UNESCO World Conference on Higher Education (WHEC 2022). The network brought together experts from across the continent to discuss digital transformation in education, assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on higher education delivery, and propose actionable recommendations for advancing digital transformation in the region. DSTN highlighted the importance of digital infrastructure investments, multidisciplinary collaboration, and regulatory frameworks to support digital education strategies.
At the WACREN 2022 Conference in Cote d’Ivoire, DSTN played a crucial role by co-organising a high-level regional workshop on High-Performance Computing (HPC). This workshop culminated in developing strategies and a roadmap for a sustainable HPC collaborative network, securing stakeholder commitments, and identifying key focus areas such as training, infrastructure, connectivity, and governance. DSTN’s efforts promise to enhance HPC capabilities in West and Central Africa, expand training initiatives, and strengthen partnerships with industry and international stakeholders.
At the African Matters Conference in Senegal in 2018, DSTN advocated bridging the gap between digital and social sciences, research and industry, and various stakeholders to drive technological and social innovation in Africa. The network showed how digital transformation can address major development challenges like poverty, healthcare, and cybersecurity. DSTN’s contribution enhanced partnerships, deepened skills and knowledge sharing on AI, and developed ethical frameworks for AI deployment to ensure inclusive and responsible technological advancement across Africa.
Through these forums, DSTN has shaped the future of digital education in Africa, promoting high performance computing (HPC) and fostering collaboration between universities and industry leaders.
RAMR2D’s Contribution – Advocating for Responsible Mining and Sustainable Development
In Response to the environmental and social challenges posed by the mining, the Responsible Mining and sustainable Development Network (RAMR2D) has been tackling and promoting sustainable practices. In June 2022, The RAMR2D Bootcamp in Niger brought together over 200 stakeholders to dialogue on the impacts of artisanal gold mining in West Africa. The boot camp culminated in The Niamey Declaration, which proposed a holistic approach to artisanal and semi-industrial gold mining, innovative solutions within a community of practice, and a regional multistakeholder regulatory framework.
RAMR2D’s contributions to global conversation efforts such as Motion 67 at the 2021 IUCN Congress have raised its profile as a key player in sustainable mining practices. RAMR2D’s involvement enhanced its visibility among global conservation stakeholders and positioned it as a key player in advocating biodiversity protection in mining activities, contributing to global conservation efforts. RAMR2D also co-organised the Mining Connections Conferences in 2022 and 2024, fostering collaboration among global researchers, NGOs, and mining companies to address mining challenges and opportunities and promote data transparency for responsible mining in West Africa.
RAM2RD participation in the 3rd ECOWAS Mining and Petroleum Forum in Niger, the network emphasised the integration of the mining and oil industries into the regional value chain to boost economic and social development. This effort was deepened at the DEJ’CRYPTAGE AFD and Partner webinar in 2023, where the network highlighted the importance of research and innovation to reduce environmental impacts and promote sustainable resource management. At the AFD-ACE Partner Webinar, the network advocated a cross-disciplinary approach to developing holistic solutions. RAMR2D focused on sustainable resource extraction, environmental impact assessment, and community engagement, underscoring the importance of technological advancements, policy reforms, capacity-building, and cultural shifts for sustainable development in Africa.
By promoting data transparency, engaging in policy reforms, and hosting the mining connections, the RAM2RD continues to champion responsible resources extraction across the region.
RES-EAU’s Contribution: Innovating Water Management in the West Africa
Water is a critical resource for life, and the Sustainable Water Management Network (RES-EAU) has been instrumental in enhancing water security. in the Sahel region through global forums and partnering with regional stakeholders. At the World Water Forum in Senegal, RES-EAU showcased innovative water management interdisciplinary solutions, sustainable water management, establishing partnership with key stakeholders such as Senegal’s SEN’EAU and Cote d’Ivoire’s Veolia to led new research programmes and internship opportunities.
RES-EAU’s work has gained global recognition, with the UNCCD appointing the network to develop a transboundary water strategy for the Great Green Wall (GGW) initiative. By integrating advanced technologies like remote sensing, and stakeholders’ collaboration, RES – EAU’s network has been crucial in ensuring efficient and equitable water use within the GGW projects, enhancing water security, combating desertification, and promoting environmental sustainability in the Sahel, which aligns with GGW’s broader goals.
RES-EAU’s High-level Session at World Water Forum 2022
A lasting Legacy for Global Impact
As the ACE Partner project concludes its formal funding phase, the legacy of its four networks WANIDA, DSTN, RAMR2D, and RES-EAU— will continue to drive progress in health, technology, and environmental sustainability. The project stands as a reference point of what can be achieved when shared vision, collaboration, innovation and dedication converge, offering a sustainable blueprint for future initiatives.
The Africa Center of Excellence in Oilfield Chemicals Research (ACE-CEFOR), hosted by the University of Port Harcourt (UniPort) in Nigeria, has taken a significant leap forward in project management efficiency. One of the 54 Centers of Excellence of the ACE Impact project, ACE-CEFOR has developed two innovative tools: an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software and a Grievance Redress Platform. These two tools have been designed to simplify the complex fiduciary and administrative processes typically associated with managing large-scale projects.
The Grievance Redress Platform seeks to streamline all grievance management processes and make it easier for the center, its host universities, and other users to address all concerns effectively and swiftly. On the other hand, the ERP software is particularly noteworthy for its comprehensive and multi-functional capabilities, such as its modules for monitoring and evaluation, project management, e-administration, e-procurement, e-auditing, e-accounting, and full notification integration with email, WhatsApp, and SMS. With their breadth and depth, these features allow users to automate various administrative processes, reducing manual workloads and enhancing efficiency.
Prof. Owunari Georgewill, Vice Chancellor, the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
To announce these innovations, the center’s leadership visited the Association of African Universities (AAU) secretariat in Accra, Ghana, on February 29, 2024. The visit aimed to present and demonstrate its newly launched tools to AAU, the Regional Facilitation Unit for the ACE Impact project, and to gather feedback from the project’s implementation support team.
“The ERP Software and Grievance Redress Platform are products of ACE-CEFOR’s dedicated ICT Research and Development Unit,” the center’s Head of ICT/Safeguard Officer, Mr. Daniel Okon, said. “These tools, along with other custom enterprise software and hardware packages like our Multimedia-based Learning Management System and Proctoring Examination System, have brought ACE-CEFOR and UniPort into the spotlight, both within and outside the ACE Impact project.”
Mr. Daniel Okon, ICT Head and Safeguard Officer, Africa Center of Excellence in Oilfield Chemicals Research (ACE-CEFOR), University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Mr. Okon noted that through these initiatives, ACE-CEFOR supported UniPort in establishing a virtual learning system, which became extremely useful during the COVID-19 pandemic. The center’s virtual learning system enabled the university to quickly and seamlessly transition to a virtual learning module, necessitated by the pandemic, unlike other Nigerian universities, which relied on the Nigerian Universities Commission’s systems.
This proactive innovation also made ACE-CEFOR the first of the 54 Centers of Excellence to fully transition to virtual learning in 2020. Center Leader Prof. Ikechukwu Ozoemenam Agbagwa emphasized that ACE-CEFOR’s software and hardware packages were intended to become significant sources of internally generated revenue as part of the center’s sustainability plan, especially as the ACE Impact project was set to conclude in June 2025.
Operating on the triple helix model of government-academia-industry partnership, ACE-CEFOR sought AAU’s support to commercialize these products across other African centers of excellence and universities. AAU’s Senior Program Manager in charge of the ACE Impact project, Dr. Sylvia Mkandawire, praised ACE-CEFOR for developing those homegrown solutions to ease complex project implementation processes. She was optimistic that other African centers of excellence and higher education institutions would be interested in the tools to improve their project management processes and even inspire them to develop more innovative solutions under the ACE Impact project.
Dr. Sylvia Mkandawire, Senior Program Manager in charge of ACE Impact Project, Association of African Universities
In 2023, ACE-CEFOR implemented the e-procurement module of its ERP software in its procurement processes. Oil firms in Nigeria already use this software, marking a significant milestone in the center’s mission to support the sustainable development of the oil and gas industry in Nigeria and other regional economies where these sectors are critical. This progress also aligns with ACE-CEFOR’s vision to become Africa’s leading center of excellence in oilfield chemicals research.
ACE-CEFOR’s delegation was led by UniPort Vice Chancellor Prof. Owunari A. Georgewill. It included Center Leader Prof. Ikechukwu Ozoemenam Agbagwa, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer Mr. Uduma Ikpa, as well as the Head of ICT/Safeguard Officer Mr. Daniel Okon. The four-member delegation was received by AAU’s ACE Impact project team, led by Secretary General Prof. Olusola Bandele Oyewole.
Prof. Olusola Bandele Oyewole, Secretary General, Association of African Universities
Looking to the future, ACE-CEFOR seeks to enhance the tools’ functionalities further and position them as flagship resources for simplifying project management in the region. To this end, it is developing a mobile app to facilitate the complex daily tasks of its leader and vice-chancellor and other users, demonstrating the robustness of the center’s ICT Research and Development Unit and its commitment to innovation and efficiency.
In a remarkable step towards inclusivity, the Africa Higher Education Center of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) has bolstered its support for students with disabilities through the University of Ghana as one of its beneficiaries. This inspiring initiative aims to alleviate the pressures on its Assistive Technology Unit, facilitate the academic progress of students with special needs, and integrate them into the university’s ICT training services, crucial for 21st-century technological competence. The ACE Impact recently equipped the Assistive Technology Unit, at the University of Ghana Computing System Office (UGCS), with 20 brand-new, high-specification desktop computers.
This intervention is a crucial step towards fulfilling a significant part of the ACE Impact project’s disbursement-linked result, which provides ACE Impact host institutions the flexibility to pursue activities focused on Institutional Impact based on need and priority. This budgetary allocation was made available to all 36 universities that host at least one of the 54 ACE Impact centers in West Africa and Djibouti, driving substantial impact across the region.
The University of Ghana’s initiative enhances its capacity to support students and faculty and exemplifies its commitment to adopting global best practices in higher education. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 15% of the world’s population lives with some form of disability. In Africa, this percentage is slightly higher due to factors such as health conditions, conflict, limited access to health care, infrastructure accessibility, training support, policy environment, and lack of funding.
The University of Ghana, which hosts three ACE Impact centers; the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI), the West Africa Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), and the West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC), chose this intervention after careful consideration of UGCS’s inclusive services and their potential impact on the community services, patrons, and humanity, at large, according to Joy Lamptey, Project Lead for ACE Impact Project, University of Ghana’s Office of Institutional Advancement.
Evolution of the Assistive Technology Unit
Established in 2006, the University of Ghana’s Assistive Technology Unit exemplifies the institution’s proactive approach to addressing the needs of visually impaired students. This unit was created in response to numerous requests from concerned students and a comprehensive needs assessment, which highlighted an urgent need to integrate visually impaired students into ICT-related academic activities. The assessment revealed that these students were completely excluded from accessing ICT education and its numerous benefits despite mandatory ICT fees. The unit was thus set up to provide basic ICT skills and support academic activities for visually impaired students, ensuring their inclusion in the digital learning environment.
The establishment of the assistive technology unit in 2006, thus, brought some relief and novelty to the beneficiary visually impaired students. However, the effectiveness of the unit diminished
over time as the traditional system of reading and writing with Braille alone, which the unit initially adopted, proved to be inefficient, particularly during examinations. According to Alexandar Bankole Williams, the Coordinator at the University of Ghana Computing System’s Assistive Technology Unit, who himself is visually impaired, “most initial beneficiary visually impaired students who used the braille for examinations would complain of being awarded low grades and blame the situation on poor transcription and translation of their examination responses,”
The unit responded to this growing concern in 2014 with a few computers; one screen reader, a software application to transform on-screen information into speech or braille to complement the use of only braille; and four desktop video magnifiers, also known as Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) magnifiers, to help low vision people to read, view images, and achieve other daily tasks that require magnification. Subsequently, it also installed other assistive technology gadgets, such as non-visual desktop access (NVDA) to help blind and very low vision students access and interact with the Windows Operating System and Applications, and a ZoomText Screen Magnifier to aid those with some appreciable sight to see and read properly. To be more inclusive, the unit also installed other assistive technology gadgets, such as headphones, and put in other necessary measures to accommodate other students with special needs, such as hearing impairment, physical impairment, and other forms of disability. These connecting devices thus put more pressure on the limited number of computers.
ACE Impact Project’s Timely Intervention
At the WACCBIP Research Conference 2024, Professor Nana Aba Amfo, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, highlighted the transformative impact of the ACE Impact project on the university community. She underscored the project’s vital role in enhancing the experiences of both students and faculty, particularly through its focus on digitalization and inclusivity:
“The project has supported initiatives to enhance the UG students’ experience through digitalization,” Professor Amfo noted. “It promotes inclusivity by equipping the assistive technology laboratory, thereby improving the teaching and learning support systems for students, faculty, and staff with disabilities.”
By 2024, the unit’s resources were outdated and insufficient. The ACE Impact project’s allocation in January 2024 brought a much-needed upgrade with 20 high-spec new computers, significantly enhancing the unit’s capacity.
“Before the ACE Impact project’s intervention, we had only ten functioning computers for over 300 registered students with special needs. These new computers will help reduce the long waiting times and improve the overall learning experience,” noted Alexander Bankole Williams, Coordinator of the Assistive Technology Unit.
Impact on Students
The new equipment has already made a significant impact. “In the past, we struggled to gain sufficient ICT skills,” said Felicia Amoako, a second-year student of Sociology, Social Work, and Religion. “With these new computers, we can now focus on improving our Braille writing skills and enhancing our employability.”
Isaiah Amada-Awuku, studying Economics, Mathematics, and Statistics, echoed this sentiment. “Having more access to these computers has boosted our self-esteem and self-confidence. We are now less dependent on others and can learn at our own time and pace.”
Future Needs and Expansion
Despite these improvements, challenges remain. The 28-seater space in the UGCS office is insufficient for the growing number of students. Mr. Williams highlighted the need for additional support: “We have a 40-seater space upstairs that is currently inaccessible due to the lack of an elevator or ramps. We need more assistive technological devices to fully empower our students with special needs.” Hence, they are confined to the ground floor, which has limited seating capacity and equipment.
The unit also needs financial resources to purchase more assistive technological devices. “With these devices in place, we will empower the special-needs students with the needed ICT skills and even encourage others who feel embarrassed by the situation to own up. We need more assistive technological devices for our students with special needs,” Mr. Williams emphasized.
Broader Impact and Commitment
The university is committed to strengthening its Office of Institutional Advancement to effectively implement activities related to institutional impact. In line with this commitment, the university has other impactful activities, such as strengthening internet connectivity and enhancing online learning management. Ultimately, these efforts align with the ACE Impact project’s goals of leveraging cross-border teaching opportunities and supporting the university’s regional strategy.
Conclusion
The University of Ghana’s proactive measures, supported by the ACE Impact World Bank grant, demonstrate a robust commitment to inclusivity in higher education. By enhancing its Assistive Technology Unit and other institutional capacities, the university is not only addressing the immediate needs of its students with disabilities but also setting a benchmark for other institutions in the region.
The Africa Centers of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE-Impact) project was launched five years ago by the World Bank and French Development Agency to increase the impact of existing ACEs under the first phase of the ACE initiative, that is, the ACE I project, and extend the initiative to more centers. Thus, the project has since 2019 been supporting 54 centers in 35 universities across eleven countries Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, and Togo—to improve and accelerate the quality, quantity, and development impact of postgraduate education in five main areas, STEM, agriculture, health, environment, applied social science, and education.
Ghana hosts nine such centers: three each at the University of Ghana, Legon, in Accra and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, and one each at the University of Cape Coast in Cape Coast, the University of Energy and Natural Resources in Sunyani, and the University for Development Studies in Tamale.
Dr. Edmund Aalandong, Head of Policy and Planning at Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, the agency facilitating the implementation of the nine ACE Impact centres in Ghana
These ACE-Impact centers, globally recognized for their unique focus on postgraduate education and research in STEM, agriculture, health, and environment, continue leading the way in Africa’s transformative, sustainable impact. This article shines a light on the forward-thinking initiatives and exceptional accomplishments of the University of Ghana’s ACE centers—the West African Center for Crop Improvement (WACCI), West African Center for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), and West Africa Genetic Medicine Center (WAGMC)—in driving agricultural innovation, scientific research, and genetic medicine in Africa. It emphasizes the centers’ crucial role in producing highly skilled professionals, fostering international collaborations, and contributing to economic development and food security across the continent. The narrative explores how these centers are making significant strides in their respective fields and paving the way for sustainable growth and development in Africa through strategic partnerships, resource mobilization, and comprehensive sustainability plans.
The West African Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI)
The West African Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI) has produced 111 PhDs, 38 of whom, representing one-third, are females. This ratio aligns with the World Bank’s value of inclusiveness and ACE Impact’s requirement for gender balance. These 111 PhD graduates are not from Ghana alone but from 15 different African countries, demonstrating the centers’ regional reach.
Through its community outreach program, WACCI has engaged and positively impacted about 5,500 farmers and made 53 successful agricultural entrepreneurs. It has also supported over a million farmers in 10 countries to improve almost 300 crop varieties, a testament to its agrarian innovation. Through its viable public-private partnerships, WACCI has scaled up the seeds of several food crops, such as soybean, tomato, and maize.
In showcasing its academic and research prowess, WACCI has spearheaded numerous faculty-led research, mainly focusing on cassava, cowpea, Frafra potato, Bambara groundnut, sorghum, maize, and rice, underscoring its commitment to scientific advancement and ensuring food security in Ghana and Africa. As a research leader, WACCI has also championed over 260 student-led publications in high-impact journals. Besides, along with its alums, the center has attracted over 100 million dollars to the sub-region, highlighting its economic impact.
WACCI’s remarkable achievements have been recognized locally, regionally, and globally for contributing to food security and outstanding agribusiness academic and research leadership. For instance, the Chicago Council on Global Affairs has acknowledged the WACCI model as a model to replicate (2009, 2013 Reports).
WACCI’s impactful journey in enhancing crop varieties, improving agricultural productivity, and ensuring food security in Africa being presented to a joint team from the World Bank, the Association of African Universities, and the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission
As a member of the African Academy of Agricultural Sciences, WACCI collaborates with international institutions in the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Uganda to undertake initiatives such as research fellowships, faculty development, projects, mentorship programs, exchange programs, and grantsmanship.
WACCI’s new focus is to consolidate its enviable academic and research leadership position in agriculture and sustain its impact on Africa’s population. With the launch of WACCI 3.0 in April 2024, the center is on a forward match to cultivating more global partnerships for Africa’s agricultural renaissance by continually contributing to food security and ensuring sustainable agriculture. WACCI also plans to foster strategic alliances with international academic and research communities, such as Cornell University and Danforth in the United States and others in Zurich, the Netherlands, and Kenya. These partnerships and collaborations all neatly fit into its sustainability plan.
As a sustainability plan, WACCI proposes a five-point strategy comprising a five-year Strategic Plan (2024-2029), a 50-million-dollar Endowment Fund, Sustainability Funding Models (such as Research-Intensive Centre, Public-Public and Private-Public Partnerships), Resource Mobilization and Communication Strategies, and making a compelling case to African governments and development partners to invest in the WACCI model.
Meanwhile, WACCI is mobilizing resources to create its proposed endowment fund, attract outstanding students to ACEs, attract and retain high-quality staff, and increase the relevance of ACEs in communities, nations, and the world.
The West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP)
Established in 2014 to support cutting-edge health research in Africa, the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) has produced 37 PhDs, serving in various roles in postdoctoral fellowship, academia, public sector health institutions, and industry. The center has also churned out 105 master’s graduates, half of whom are pursuing PhDs, and the remaining are in various roles in academia, research institutions, and industry.
WACCBIP has been providing long-term training to young scientists from 18 countries across Africa to develop into research leaders as part of its effort to contribute to building Africa’s scientific capacity. So far, it has produced 400 such fellows, comprising 227 master’s fellows, 121 PhD fellows, and 52 postdoctoral fellows, exceeding the ACE Impact project’s requirement of 1:3 gender ratio.
WACCBIP’s contribution to health research in Africa became even more impactful in the heat of the 2019 global COVID-19 pandemic when the center conducted several immunological, serological, virological, and molecular epidemiological studies and published original research and feature articles in high-impact journals. Funded by the UK AID, the Rockefeller Foundation, and the FCDO, it also screened about 50,000 people in Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria.
WACCBIP’s Director, Prof. Gordon Awandare, explaining the center’s significant contribution to building a robust scientific research capacity in Africa
To maintain its leadership position, center leaders, faculty, and staff are working to build a three-floor building complex with essential fittings and auxiliary facilities, a leaning and interaction center, a pergola, and land valued at 1 million dollars.
Beyond the World Bank, WACCBIP has attracted funding from other international entities like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Rockefeller Foundation, and Research Councils UK; regional entities like the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), The African Academy of Sciences, and Crick African Network; and national entities like the Government of Ghana, Tiba Ghana, and Ghana Health Service.
The West Africa Genetic Medicine Center (WAGMC)
Since its establishment, the West Africa Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) has made significant strides in addressing the genetic health challenges facing many African countries as a pioneering institution in sub-Saharan Africa. As the first genetic counseling center in the region, WAGMC has been at the forefront of providing essential genetic testing and counseling services, focusing on reducing the high incidence of sickle cell disease births in Ghana and Africa.
By offering genetic testing and counseling, the center has provided critical support to families affected by genetic disorders, particularly sickle cell diseases. The center’s work has been instrumental in identifying carriers of the sickle cell gene and providing counseling to help manage and reduce the high incidence of this debilitating condition. Despite the center’s relatively recent establishment, its services have already impacted many lives, offering hope and improved health outcomes.
WAGMC’s impact extends beyond individual patient outcomes to broader healthcare and research advancements. By integrating genetic testing into the healthcare system, the center has paved the way for more personalized and effective treatment plans. Its research contributions have enhanced the understanding of genetic disorders prevalent in the region, informing public health strategies and interventions.
Regarding capacity building and inclusivity, WAGMC has made concerted efforts to support and empower scientists and researchers, with a deliberate focus on female scientists and researchers, which aligns with the World Bank’s inclusive values. The center has fostered a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging women to pursue careers in genetic medicine and research. This commitment to inclusivity is reflected in the center’s training program and collaborative projects prioritizing gender equality and empowerment.
A joint team comprising the leadership of the ACE Impact project at the regional and national levels visited WAGMC to have first-hand information on the center’s achievements and impacts in the genetic medicine space
WAGMC’s achievements and impacts have been bolstered by its strategic partnerships and collaborations. Although it operates independently of an academic department, it collaborates closely with various departments within the University of Ghana, such as the School of Public Health. These collaborations have enabled the center to extend its impact beyond its immediate remit, supporting students and researchers from other departments and fostering an interdisciplinary approach to genetic medicine. With the significant impact it is already making in genetic medicine, researchers and faculty members are confident the center will make an even greater impact with the needed facilities.
One of WAGMC’s significant challenges has been the absence of comprehensive tumor sequencing capabilities in Ghana. This gap has led to higher rates of undiagnosed genetic conditions and increased the cost of detection and treatment, costing the lives of the teeming population who cannot afford it. In response to this alarming phenomenon, WAGMC has plans to build a robust genetic testing infrastructure. This initiative aims to enhance early diagnosis and efficient treatment of genetic disorders, thereby reducing the overall burden of these conditions on affected families and the healthcare system.
The West Africa Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) is setting ambitious and comprehensive goals to revolutionize genetic healthcare in Africa. These plans include establishing advanced genetic testing facilities, enhanced training programs for genetic counselors and researchers, and expanded public outreach to educate communities about genetic health. By pursuing these objectives, WAGMC aims to significantly strengthen its contributions to genetic medicine in Africa.
WAGMC’s ultra-modern building complex under construction aimed to support the early diagnosis and efficient treatment of genetic disorders
Recognizing the need for these and even further development, WAGMC is appealing to the World Bank and other international donors for support. The center highlights its unique position and the substantial impact it has already made, seeking consideration for inclusion in future iterations of the ACE initiative.
WAGMC stands as a beacon of progress in genetic healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa. Its achievements in genetic testing, counseling, and research have significantly impacted the lives of many individuals and families. As WAGMC continues to grow and develop, its contributions to genetic medicine and public health are poised to expand, offering a brighter future for genetic healthcare in Africa. With continued support and strategic partnerships, WAGMC is well-positioned to address the region’s genetic health challenges.
Conclusion
The ACE-Impact project has brought transformative progress to postgraduate education and research in West Africa. At the forefront of this transformation are the University of Ghana’s ACE centers: the West African Center for Crop Improvement (WACCI), the West African Center for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), and the West Africa Genetic Medicine Center (WAGMC). These centers have made remarkable strides in their respective fields, driving agricultural innovation, cutting-edge health research, and genetic medicine.
WACCI has significantly advanced agricultural productivity, producing numerous PhDs, engaging thousands of farmers, and supporting the improvement of hundreds of crop varieties across the continent. WACCBIP has been pivotal in health research, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and continues to build scientific capacity through extensive training programs. WAGMC, as a pioneering genetic counseling center, has made critical contributions to genetic healthcare, offering essential testing and counseling services and aiming to build a robust genetic testing infrastructure.
These centers have fostered strategic partnerships, both locally and internationally, which have enhanced their research capabilities and impact. Their efforts have led to academic and scientific achievements and contributed to Africa’s economic development and food security. The ongoing and planned initiatives, such as the launch of WACCI 3.0 and the establishment of advanced genetic testing facilities at WAGMC, are set to further consolidate their leadership positions and ensure sustainable development.
In sum, the University of Ghana’s ACE-Impact centers exemplify the transformative impact of the ACE-Impact project. Their achievements underscore the importance of strategic partnerships, resource mobilization, and comprehensive sustainability plans in driving progress. As these centers continue to grow and develop, they are well-positioned to lead the charge in addressing the region’s agricultural, health, and genetic challenges, ultimately empowering Africa’s future. With continued support and collaboration, the vision of sustainable growth and development in Africa is not achievable but imminent.
