Centers of Excellence – ACE – Africa Higher Education Centres of Excellence

December 4, 2025

Ghana Shines At ACE@10: A National Showcase of Innovation and Leadership

Ghana joined the rest of Africa in commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Africa Higher Education Centres of Excellence (ACE) Program) with a powerful showcase of national achievements, innovation, and leadership in higher education.

Hosted by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) the National Facilitation Unit for the ACE Program the celebration formed part of the maiden National Tertiary Education Conference, held from November 5–7, 2024, at the Cedi Conference Centre, University of Ghana.

Held under the theme “Transforming Tertiary Education in Ghana: Dialogue, Policy and Practice,” the event convened an impressive cross-section of higher education leaders, policymakers, development partners, and students. Distinguished guests included Prof. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Minister of Education; Prof. Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, Director General of GTEC; Dr. Scherezad Latif, Education Practice Manager for West and Central Africa at the World Bank; Dr. Sylvia Mkandawire, Senior Program Manager for the ACE Impact Project at the Association of African Universities (AAU); and Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana.

Delivering the keynote address, former University of Ghana Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ernest Aryeetey praised the ACE Program for its transformative role in reshaping Ghana’s higher education and research landscape. He highlighted the program’s far-reaching contributions from modern laboratories and strengthened postgraduate training to gender inclusion, innovation, and stronger industry partnerships describing it as “a unique opportunity that has elevated governments’ commitment to research and development.”

Since its inception, the ACE Program has empowered Ghanaian universities to deliver world-class postgraduate education, pioneering research, and home-grown solutions in agriculture, health, energy, engineering, environment, and technology. Collectively, Ghana’s nine centres of excellence have positioned the country as a regional hub for innovation and capacity building.

Each of Ghana’s ACE centres has made distinctive contributions to national and continental development:

- At the Africa Centre of Excellence in Coastal Resilience (ACECoR), University of Cape Coast, over 140 postgraduate students have been trained in accredited international programs, building expertise in coastal management and strengthening Africa’s blue economy.
- The KNUST Engineering Education Project (KEEP) has equipped innovators with skills in renewable energy and digital technologies, supported by cutting-edge laboratories and a GHS 6 million endowment fund to sustain its mission of engineering solutions for Africa.
- The Regional Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability (RCEES) at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) has mobilized nearly US$4 million in additional research grants, expanded renewable energy studies, and launched entrepreneurship hubs promoting clean innovation.
- At KNUST, the Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre (RWESCK) has trained over 300 postgraduate students and 600 professionals, pioneering AI-driven water management tools and drone technology for environmental monitoring.
- The Regional Transport Research and Education Centre (TRECK), also at KNUST, is advancing Ghana’s transport transformation through research in intelligent traffic systems and sustainable logistics—informing national policy and infrastructure design.
- At the University of Ghana, the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI) has trained over 100 PhDs from 15 African countries, developed 279 improved crop varieties, and supported more than 6,000 farmers through its Kofi Annan Enterprise Hub for Agricultural Innovation, reinforcing food and nutrition security across the continent.
- The West Africa Centre for Water, Irrigation and Sustainable Agriculture (WACWISA) at the University for Development Studies has trained 144 postgraduate students, delivered short courses to over 500 professionals, and introduced farmer-focused technologies such as weather applications and improved Shea roasters.
- The West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) at the University of Ghana pioneered Sub-Saharan Africa’s first MSc in Genetic Counselling and established the world’s largest sickle cell biobank, housing over 30,000 samples to advance genetic medicine and public health research.
- Finally, the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) has produced 37 PhDs, over 100 master’s graduates, and 400 research fellows across 18 African countries. Its leadership in COVID-19 testing and genomic sequencing, screening over 50,000 samples across Ghana, Nigeria, and Burkina Faso, has solidified its role as a continental research powerhouse.

In his address, Minister of Education Prof. Yaw Osei Adutwum urged Ghana’s tertiary institutions to align their curricula with the ongoing transformation at the secondary level. He called for a decisive shift toward skills-based, practical learning to better prepare students for the demands of the 21st-century economy.

Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, echoed the need for deeper collaboration between universities and industry, noting:

“The connection between academia and industry, if properly managed, will help bridge the skills gap and enhance employability.”

The Ghana celebration of ACE@10 reaffirmed the nation’s leadership in higher education and research. The nine centres of excellence have demonstrated that strategic investment in higher education yields transformative results—from global scientific breakthroughs and industry partnerships to grassroots innovations that improve livelihoods and promote sustainability.

As Ghana looks ahead, the success of its ACE centres stands as proof that African universities can drive innovation, competitiveness, and inclusive development when empowered with vision, collaboration, and support.

Engines of Transformation: Celebrating the Centres that are Changing Africa

As the ACE Program marked a decade of transformative impact, centres across the participating host institutions were invited to celebrate their national achievements and chart bold paths for the future. These country-level celebrations became vibrant platforms for reflection, collaboration, and renewed commitment bringing together governments, academia, industry, and development partners to strengthen ties and scale innovation.

Six centres rose to the occasion, turning their milestones into moments of inspiration. Their celebrations highlighted a powerful evolution from project-driven initiatives to fully institutionalized entities within their host universities ensuring long-term sustainability and deeper regional influence. Through the inauguration of new research facilities, the launch of cutting-edge innovation programs, and reflections on their achievements in training, research, and industry engagement, these centres reaffirmed their role as engines of excellence, collaboration, and enduring impact across Africa.

September 2, 2025

Inspiring Education and Innovation: The Story of CEA/IEA-MS4SSA

The Center for Teaching and Learning Mathematics and Science in sub-Saharan Africa (CEA/IEA-MS4SSA) is dedicated to advancing education through research and innovation across four key areas: Mathematics Didactics, Life and Earth Sciences Didactics, Physical Sciences Didactics, and General Didactics. In addition to its educational focus, the Center leads technological innovations, including the creation of automation systems such as solar-powered automatic handwashing machines, respirators, and masks to support public health efforts.

Meeting the Challenge

The Center addresses critical shortages in science education by training qualified teachers and promoting STEM education among girls. These efforts are vital for boosting science and technology performance in Niger and the broader sub-region. The Center’s initiatives have reduced gender disparities in science disciplines by providing scholarships with higher stipends for female students.

In collaboration with education ministries, the Center directly trains students who are then employed by the public service. The scholarship policy incentivizes girls to pursue science education, ensuring equitable participation and representation in STEM fields.

Outcome

The Center has trained 1,157 qualified mathematics and science teachers, significantly enhancing STEM education across the region. By developing teaching programs based on the PMI/PSI approach, the Center has improved science and math education practices. Additionally, the creation of experimental materials tailored to the region’s education systems has enhanced practical learning experiences. The Center has also produced 15 specialists in didactics across mathematics, physical sciences, and life sciences. Approximately 120 teachers have benefited from short-term training programs.

The Center has addressed the need for modern educational facilities by constructing a state-of-the-art administrative and academic complex. Laboratories at the ENS (École Normale Supérieure) were rehabilitated and student living spaces upgraded to foster a conducive learning environment. By accrediting training programs, the Center promotes excellence and reinforces high standards in education.

Conclusion

Through its dedication to education, innovation, and gender equity, the CEA/IEA-MS4SSA Center is transforming science education and fostering a new generation of skilled teachers and leaders. This success story is a testament to the power of strategic collaboration, innovative practices, and a commitment to excellence in education.

September 2, 2025

Revolutionizing Poultry Farming in Togo: How Local Black Soldier Fly Feed is Reducing Costs and Boosting Productivity

In Togo, poultry farming plays a pivotal role in the agricultural economy, accounting for 14% of the sector’s GDP. However, high costs and a dependence on imported feed concentrates—representing 70% of production costs—have limited productivity and forced the country to rely heavily on poultry imports to meet national demand.

In 2020, Togo imported 24,717 tonnes of poultry meat and offal to fill the production gap. Without affordable, high-quality feed, the poultry industry struggles to compete and grow sustainably.

The Solution: Local Feed Concentrate from Black Soldier Fly Maggots

The Regional Center of Excellence in Poultry Sciences (CERSA) developed a feed concentrate made from black soldier fly maggots, offering high nutritional and microbiological quality that rivals imports. It provides essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals, reducing reliance on costly imports and supporting sustainable farming.

Innovation and Production

Under the leadership of Dr. Attivi, the project harnesses nutrient-rich black soldier fly larvae. Produced through a rigorous process using organic waste, the feed is both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable.

Results and Impact

The feed has improved efficiency, growth rates, and meat quality, while lowering production costs. It aligns with Togo’s 2016–2030 National Strategic Plan to boost meat production to 85,813 tonnes by 2030.

Carving a Path in Agricultural Sustainability

CERSA’s black soldier fly feed concentrate is a model of agricultural innovation, enhancing livelihoods, promoting food security, and strengthening the poultry industry for a sustainable future in West Africa.

September 2, 2025

Enhancing Systems in Priority Sectors through Technology

The Africa Center of Excellence in Mathematics, Computing and ICT (CEA-MITIC), one of the 54 centers of excellence established by the World Bank to address common regional developmental gaps, has revolutionized healthcare, education, and environmental management through cutting-edge research and innovation. By addressing critical challenges in Senegal and beyond, the center’s projects have transformed lives and improved national systems.

SIMENS-MOBILE: Enhancing Medical Information Systems

The SIMENS-MOBILE project developed a mobile adaptation of Senegal’s National Medical Information System, enhancing real-time patient monitoring and optimizing healthcare delivery. Initially designed as a web platform, the mobile version now enables doctors to consult, diagnose, and prescribe remotely, significantly improving the efficiency of patient care and resource-sharing. Operational for over a decade at the Saint-Louis Regional Hospital, the system has benefited thousands of patients and healthcare professionals, inspiring the establishment of Pyramid Health Information Systems.

AI4Cardio: Combating Cardiovascular Diseases

To address the rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases in sub-Saharan Africa, the AI4Cardio project created an AI-driven framework for preventing and monitoring heart conditions. The project developed a web application for real-time access to patient data and, in partnership with CEA-SMIA, established an African Registry of Pacemaker Wearers. By providing early risk prediction and remote monitoring, AI4Cardio has significantly improved patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency across the region.

NanoDiabetes: Affordable Glucose Monitoring Solutions

The NanoDiabetes project pioneered the development of innovative glucose-monitoring chips utilizing Electrochemical Field Effect Transistor (ElecFET) technology. These smaller, cheaper, and highly reliable devices offer a promising alternative to traditional glucose meters, making diabetes care more accessible for families and healthcare systems in developing countries.

WAZIUP: IoT and Big Data for Rural Development

The WAZIUP project leverages Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data technologies to improve agriculture and rural livelihoods in sub-Saharan Africa. By collaborating with farmers and ICT professionals, WAZIUP delivers solutions that enhance productivity, entrepreneurship, and sustainability, engaging partners from multiple African and European countries.

Deep4EnvMonitoring: Tackling Illegal Landfills with AI

Through Deep4EnvMonitoring, the Center uses Deep Learning and drone technology to detect and manage illegal dumpsites. The project automates waste identification, geolocation, and characterization, providing municipalities with cost-effective solutions for environmental management and producing several scientific publications.

Driving the Future of Health and Environment

CEA-MITIC’s groundbreaking projects continue to enhance healthcare delivery, environmental management, and rural development while fostering entrepreneurship and academic excellence. The center calls upon governments, private sector partners, and international organizations to invest in scaling these innovations for broader impact across Africa.

September 2, 2025September 2, 2025

Linking research innovation and human needs, the ACE factor

Over the years, the world has witnessed an emphatic shift toward impact-driven research. This development is evident in the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), where research innovation plays a crucial role in addressing challenges in healthcare, water, sanitation, agriculture, and education. Emphasizing the need for transformative research that influences industries, policies, and communities, the European Commission (2020) acknowledges research innovation as a key driver of societal progress. The World Bank (2021) and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD, 2015) also emphasize the importance of research innovation, especially in developing economies. While the OECD recognizes the importance of science, technology, and interdisciplinary collaboration, the World Bank, through both words and actions, highlights the roles of universities, research centers, and industry partnerships not only in generating knowledge but also in transforming it into real-world solutions that have a meaningful impact on sustainable growth.

In an era when innovation has been widely recognized, such as by the World Bank, European Commission, and OECD, as the foundation of sustainable development, the World Bank Africa Higher Education Centres of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) project serves as an engine of revolutionary change. With a laser focus on strengthening higher education and research institutions, ACE Impact is driving innovation that directly addresses Africa’s most pressing developmental challenges. From pioneering cutting-edge science to spearheading futuristic technology to fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and industry partnerships to nurturing entrepreneurial mindsets, the project is redefining the role of higher education in spurring economic growth and societal progress.

A critical contribution of ACE Impact is its rare innate ability to align academic research with real African needs. Through multidisciplinary research and development initiatives, ACE centres produce context-specific solutions in areas such as health, agriculture, engineering, and digital technology. By adequately strategically resourcing and empowering researchers, the project ensures that the knowledge generated within African universities translates into tangible innovations that benefit both communities and industries.

At the heart of modern development is digital transformation; with this recognition, ACE Impact integrates technology in higher education and research. Many ACEs have developed and deployed technological innovations in e-learning, telemedicine, and artificial intelligence to tackle challenges in education, healthcare, and other critical sectors. For instance, ACE Impact has introduced digital learning platforms and tech-enabled teaching methodologies, supported the digitalization of academic programs and expanded higher education beyond physical campuses to make it responsive to the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Extending higher education innovation beyond technological advancements, the ACE Impact project has also institutionalized an ecosystem where creativity lives and thrives. The project has catalyzed this transformation by investing in cutting-edge research, strengthening industry-academia partnerships, and providing students with opportunities to apply their knowledge to real-world problems. The program has supported and empowered its numerous Centers of Excellence to develop innovative academic programs tailored to Africa’s developmental needs. By funding applied research and strengthening curriculum relevance, ACE Impact has ensured that graduates are not only academically competent but also equipped with problem-solving skills critical for the job market.

Also recognizing that innovation thrives in an environment that enables entrepreneurship, ACE Impact has integrated entrepreneurship training into its academic programs, encouraging students and faculty to transform research ideas into viable businesses. As a result, its ACEs have established innovation hubs and business incubation centers, providing mentorship, funding, and market access for startups emerging from research outputs. These initiatives are not only strengthening Africa’s innovation ecosystem but also generating employment opportunities. In a recent ACE Graduate Tracer survey, independently conducted by China’s MyCos, one in every ten ACE Impact graduates reported having established their own business and contributing to Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Almost all (98%) of the 4,295 PhD and master’s graduates surveyed reported having been significantly impacted by the ACE model.

Key Impact Metrics:

Another marked feature of ACE Impact is its emphasis on strong industry-academia linkages. The project has facilitated partnerships between and among universities and key industry players to co-develop curricula, conduct joint research, and implement work-integrated learning programs. These collaborations have significantly enhanced graduates’ employability, ensuring that industries access a skilled workforce equipped with relevant expertise and innovative problem-solving capabilities. The independent ACE Graduate Tracer survey also found that over 80% of the project’s graduates secured their ideal employment within the first six months of graduation.

Beyond the direct technological and research innovations, ACE Impact also plays a crucial role in influencing policy and institutional reforms. By implementing and advocating robust quality assurance frameworks, accreditation processes, and performance-based funding mechanisms, the project is enhancing the governance and operational efficiency of higher education institutions. These reforms are pivotal in ensuring long-term sustainability and scalability of innovation-driven development in Africa.

Sustaining the momentum of innovation remains a priority as the ACE Impact project ends in June 2025. Future efforts focus on deepening industry linkages, securing sustainable funding models, and expanding digital education infrastructure. The World Bank has been collaborating with governments, policymakers, and academic leaders to create an enabling environment that fosters innovation, ensuring Africa’s knowledge institutions remain at the forefront of addressing developmental challenges, especially in healthcare.

April 24, 2025September 24, 2025

Driving Excellence in Africa’s Higher Education: Key Achievements and Lessons from the ACE Impact Journey

The tenth anniversary of the Africa Higher Education Centres of Excellence (ACE) Program held in April 2025, offered a pivotal moment for reflection, learning, and strategic dialogue. The fifth plenary session focused on reflecting on the ACE journey thus far, bringing to light the immense strides made by the ACE initiative in transforming Africa’s higher education landscape over the past decade.

Dr. Halil Dundar, Education Global Manager at the World Bank opened the session by commending the program’s achievements and emphasized the importance of consolidating lessons learned as the initiative prepares for its next phase. He stressed that the future of Africa’s development hinges on strengthened centers of excellence that train the next generation of scientists, researchers, and professionals to tackle the continent’s most pressing challenges across sectors including health, agriculture, STEM, energy, mining, and more.

The session featured presentations by Dr. Sylvia Mkandawire, Senior Project Manager for the ACE Impact at the Association of African Universities (AAU), and Dr. Jude Ssebuwufu, ACE II Coordinator at the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA). They presented the key achievements, challenges, and lessons learned from the ACE journey, alongside recommendations for the future.

The ACE Model: A Pan-African Investment in Knowledge and Skills

Launched in 2014, the ACE Program is a regional higher education initiative supported by the World Bank in partnership with participating African governments. Building on its early successes, the program has attracted additional development partners—most notably the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), which co-funds the third phase launched in 2019.

Coordinated by the Association of African Universities (AAU) and the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), the ACE model adopts a results-based financing approach, linking disbursements to measurable results in research, teaching, and institutional development. To date, over 80 Centres of Excellence in 20 African countries have been supported, with the goal of improving postgraduate education and research in priority sectors.

Key Achievements: Scaling Impact Across the Continent

As part of the ACE program’s objectives to expand higher education access and inclusion, over 90,000 students have been enrolled including 7,650 PhD and 30,200 Master’s students, 52,629 learners in professional short-term courses (PSTCs), and 26,291 regional students across borders. Notably, 29,696 of these students are women, reflecting a deliberate commitment to gender inclusion and equitable access in postgraduate education.

In terms of raising quality through accreditation and infrastructure, more than 620 academic programs have been accredited through national, regional, and international bodies. International accreditation partners include Agency for Quality Assurance through Accreditation of Study Programmes (AQAS, Germany) and Accreditation Agency for Study Programmes of Engineering, Information Science, Natural Sciences and Mathematics (ASIIN, Germany), ensuring global relevance and competitiveness. In addition, the ACE program has invested in modern learning environments, commissioning 51 new buildings with smart classrooms and digital learning tools, with nine (9) more facilities nearing completion.

To boost research, innovation, and industrial relevance, the centers have produced over 10,000 research publications, many in collaboration with regional and global partners. At least 400 formal research collaborations and 73 peer-reviewed articles have emerged from ACE-affiliated networks, in addition to 61 capacity-building workshops, 52 regional network scholarships, eight (8) start-ups launched through ACE support structures. Importantly, 20% of students have accessed internships or academic exchanges, built practical skills while promoting cross-border academic mobility.

Moreover, in bridging the employability gap, targeted skills training has led to notable improvements in graduate employability, particularly for students in applied and industry-linked programs. These interventions are helping bridge the critical skills gap in Africa’s key sectors, while also contributing to national and regional development agendas.

Lessons Learned

Key success areas for the ACE model include regional cooperation that has strengthened cross-country collaboration in higher education, influencing national policy and institutional reforms, results-based financing tying disbursements to measurable outputs, ultimately, encouraging performance-driven education management as well as policy reform impact.

Persistent Challenges

Key challenges noted include regional student mobility in line with language barriers, and strict immigration processes, program accreditation hurdles, and inconsistent national financing policies and models.

Recommendations

To combat these challenges, there is the need to promote regional student mobility, enhance language accessibility by establishing language support centers, streamline accreditation processes, and advocate for common or similar financing policies through regional economic blocs.

Sustaining the Vision for Africa’s Knowledge Future

In conclusion, the ACE program has made a compelling case for regional collaboration, policy reform, and investment in higher education as a cornerstone of Africa’s development agenda. It has proven that African universities can deliver high-quality training, produce impactful research, and shape policies that respond to the continent’s evolving needs.

April 24, 2025September 24, 2025

Shaping the Future of Responsible Mining and Ensuring Sustainable Environment: ACE Mining Centres Reflect During Program’s 10th Anniversary

The Africa Centers of Excellence (ACE) program’s 10th anniversary celebrations in April 2025, offered a space for deep reflection, collaboration, and future-focused dialogue in its breakout sessions. The mining session, moderated by Xavier Michel reflected on forward-thinking strategies towards environmental sustainability. The ACE program centers across West, East, and Southern Africa converged their unique perspectives on responsible mining and sustainable environmental practices, highlighting their individual and collective contributions to responsible mining, deliberating on burgeoning environmental, social, and governance challenges that bedevil Africa’s mining ecosystem, and charting a clear vision toward its sustainability.

Six ACE program centres—CEFORGRIS from Burkina Faso, CEMS from Côte d’Ivoire, EMIG from Niger, CEA-MEM from Senegal, CS-OGET from Ethiopia, and ACESM from Zambia—participated in this session. These centers, located in Africa’s mineral- rich corridors, have become beacons of research excellence and innovation in mining and extractive sciences.

With the overarching theme around responsible mining and its contribution to a sustainable environment, the session was a dynamic space for shared learning. Discussions revolved around four interrelated pillars: student and faculty development, advancing research, translating research into industry and policy impact, and partnerships and sustainability. Each centre presented compelling narratives that painted a rich tapestry of institutional progress grounded in real-world challenges and triumphs.

On student and faculty development, leaders of the various centers emphasized efforts to enhance academic programs in mining, increase postgraduate enrolments, and foster faculty development through international mobility and mentoring of early-career mining and environment researchers. Initiatives included curriculum modernization, faculty exchange programs, and targeted recruitment to promote diversity and inclusion in mining education. EMIG shared its targeted efforts to attract more women into mining-related programs, while ACESM highlighted its industry-linked PhD training model that embeds students within mining companies.

When it came to advancing research, centres celebrated milestones in cutting-edge work on mineral recovery technologies, environmental impact assessments, and mine safety innovations. CEA-MEM’s work on sustainable artisanal mining techniques stood out as a model of locally responsive research with global relevance.

One of the most inspiring moments was the accounts of research translation into policy and industry impact. CS-OGET detailed its collaboration with the Ethiopian Ministry of Mines to shape regulatory reforms, while CEMS illustrated how its geotechnical research was informing mining protocols in Francophone West Africa. These stories underscored growth among the ACE centers in closing the gap between academic inquiry and real-world impact.

In the discussions on partnerships and sustainability, centre leaders spoke candidly about the evolving nature of funding, the need for diversified income streams, and the critical role of long-term partnerships with industry, government, and international collaborators. CEFOGRIS shared a strategy of embedding alumni into key public agencies to drive future collaboration from within.

Moving forward, future focus areas identified included critical minerals research, climate-smart mining practices, and digitization and automation of mining processes. Centre leaders called for enabling conditions such as enhanced infrastructure, stronger regional collaboration frameworks, and increased policy alignment with academic outputs.

The session concluded with a collective commitment to advancing responsible mining practices that align with sustainable development goals. The moderator, Xavier Michel in his closing remarks, noted that the shared experiences and forward-looking strategies reflected the ACE program’s core ethos: centres of excellence rooted in local realities, producing knowledge for global good.

The insights from the Mining Breakout Session, later shared during the plenary on the event’s third day, reinforced a compelling truth: Africa’s path to responsible and sustainable mining is already being paved through science, partnerships, and the unrelenting dedication of its researchers and educators.

As the ACE initiative steps into its next decade, these mining-focused centres stand poised to lead Africa into a new era, where the continent’s rich natural resources are harnessed not just for economic gain but for environmental stewardship, social inclusion, and sustainable development.

November 13, 2024

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

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.

October 1, 2024October 1, 2024

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

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.

October 1, 2024October 3, 2024

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:

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.