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Transforming Ideas into Impact: ACE Fuels Africa’s Next Generation of Innovation and Enterprise

Driven by a vision to empower African researchers—by Africans and for Africa—the Africa Higher Education Centers of Excellence (ACE) program has emerged as a transformative force in research, innovation and entrepreneurship across the continent. Over the past decade, the ACE Program has reshaped Africa’s research landscape by training more than 90,000 students from 20 sub-Saharan African countries, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle Africa’s most pressing development challenges while empowering a new generation to transform research into real-world solutions and create substantial employment opportunities across diverse sectors.

From its inception, the ACE program has achieved more than its core mission of advancing research in Africa; it has also nurtured the continent’s emerging entrepreneurial spirit. The program’s success was celebrated at the recent ACE@10 Celebrations, held at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, Ghana from April 7–9. At this event, young African entrepreneurs—once beneficiaries of the World Bank-funded ACE program—shared their success stories and demonstrated how academic research can be effectively translated into real-world solutions.

Transforming Ideas into Enterprise: The Story of Peace Chemis Mnelemba

Peace Chemis Mnelemba, Chief Executive Officer of Aquaponic for Life (A4L), exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit inspired by the ACE program. Growing up in a community where food insecurity and youth unemployment were pressing issues, Mnelemba set out to find solutions. His journey took a decisive turn when he joined the Centre of Excellence for Aquaculture and Fisheries Science (Aquafish) in Malawi. There, he not only completed his MSc with the necessary support but also learned to convert scientific knowledge into actionable solutions to address local challenges.

With Aquaponic, Peace is addressing a persistent challenge in fish farming: the production of feed from waste. His startup is successfully utilizing black soldier fly (BSF) larvae, produced from waste as a sustainable feed option for fish farmers. Not only has he improved fish stocking density, but he has also established a training program for local youth, universities and technical institutes. Through his innovative work, over 400 farmers have been trained, with 50 forming a cooperative dedicated to aquaponics.

His company has boosted annual fish production from 8,000 to an expected 12,000 pieces and increased Black Soldier Fly output from 200 kg to a projected 500 kg. Additionally, enhanced management practices have led to improved yields in crops like lettuce and peppermint.

Pioneering Natural Medicinal Formulations: The Journey of Jimmy Angupale

Another inspiring example shared during the ACE@10 Celebration was Jimmy Angupale, founder of Novel Medicine Formulations (NMF). Angupale’s enterprise in natural medicinal formulations focuses on producing and commercializing ghee-based products. He sought to position Africa as a leader in indigenous medicinal and cosmetic product development, leveraging local materials to create sustainable solutions.

In Uganda, where conventional cosmetic products often rely on synthetic chemicals that can cause skin toxicity and unpleasant odors, Angupale identified a critical gap. He developed a purification method for ghee that eliminates synthetic residues, resulting in an industrial-grade product that meets quality standards for cosmetic and medicinal use. His innovations have led to the creation of products such as ghee-based Pearl Jelly and Cream, now available on supermarket shelves and receiving positive consumer feedback.

Furthermore, his start-up has diversified into producing antimalarial tablets, HIV/AIDS supplements, and pharmaceutical-grade starch—each innovation reducing reliance on petroleum-based inputs and generating economic opportunities for local communities.

Building a Collaborative Ecosystem for Sustainable Development

The success stories of Mnelemba and Angupale are testaments to the ACE program’s collaborative ecosystem, which bridges academia, government, industry, and local communities. Abdoul-Wahab Annou, Head of the Incubation and Entrepreneurship Centre & Project Coordinator in Burkina Faso, emphasized at the event that working together was crucial for addressing Africa’s development challenges. He encouraged student researchers to focus on continent-specific issues and to harness scientific research to drive tangible improvements. He praised the tenacity of entrepreneurs like Mr. Angupale and Mr. Mnelemba and encouraged student researchers to address national and continent-specific problems through integrated, collaborative efforts.

Faculty and students across all the participating centers in West, East and Southern Africa continue to convert academic knowledge into practical solutions. For instance, Dr. Yaw Bediako, a faculty from the West Africa Center for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) in Ghana established Yemaachi, a biotech company dedicated to building the world’s most diverse cancer bio-database to aid in the development of effective cancer treatments.

Charting the Future

Launched in 2014, the ACE program has emerged as a transformative initiative in Africa’s academic and entrepreneurial sectors. By establishing 80 centers of excellence across 50 universities, and with funding support from the World Bank and the French Development Agency, the program has not only advanced research but has also accelerated the translation of academic knowledge into market-driven solutions. The remarkable achievements of entrepreneurs like Peace Chemis Mnelemba and Jimmy Angupale exemplify how the ACE program empowers individuals to conduct high quality research, address local challenges, create jobs, and foster sustainable development.

Regional coordination has been led by the Association of African Universities (AAU) for ACE I and ACE Impact, and by the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) for ACE II, reflecting strong collaborative efforts across the continent.

The ACE program is not only bridging critical gaps in academia but also driving a movement where research, innovation, and entrepreneurship converge to transform Africa’s development trajectory.

Celebrating a Decade of Tangible Impact: ACE@10 Event Opens with a Call to Sustain and Scale Progress

Stakeholders of the Africa Higher Education Centres of Excellence (ACE) program marked a major milestone on Monday, April 7, 2025, with the commencement of the celebration of the program’s 10th anniversary and closure. This high-level event rallied over 500 key program stakeholders from the World Bank and other development partner organisations, academia, governments, and industry to celebrate the programmes transformative achievements over the 10 years of its implementation and to deliberate about sustaining and expanding its gains. The event at Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, Ghana, themed celebrating a decade of impact, innovation, and excellence, opened with a compelling ceremony. The opening ceremony of the 3-day event featured welcome remarks from the heads of the two Regional Facilitation Units (RFUs) for the ACE program, namely Prof. Olusola Oyewole, Secretary-General for the Association of African Universities (AAU), the RFU for the ACE program in Western and Central Africa and Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona, Executive Secretary for the Inter-University Council for East Africa, the RFU for the ACE program in Eastern and Southern Africa.

Prof. Olusola Oyewole, Secretary-General for the Association of African Universities (AAU)
Prof. Olusola Oyewole, Secretary-General for the Association of African Universities (AAU)

The two RFU heads focused their addresses on the program’s impactful achievements, particularly producing over 90,000 PhD and Master’s graduates, obtaining over 400 international and national program accreditations, and publishing over 10,000 research papers. They also highlighted the program’s success in fostering partnerships among universities and with industry across the continent, leading to enhanced research outputs and innovations. Encapsulating a shared vision for an empowered, innovative, and interconnected African higher education landscape poised to drive the continent’s development forward, the RFU heads’ addresses also emphasized the contributions of their respective organizations and outlined their strategic directions. They underscored and advocated continuous investments and policy and regulatory frameworks that effectively address regional development challenges and support the sustainability of the ACE gains, ensuring that they are not confined to the present generation but extended to future generations as well.

The opening ceremony also featured a rousing keynote address from Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana. Presenting under the theme of The Vision for Higher Education for Africa and the Journey So Far: 10 Years of ACE, Prof. Amfo recognized and commended the transformative role of the ACE program in reshaping the African higher education, research, and innovation landscape. She demonstrated why the establishment of the ACEs was necessary, the program’s impressive achievements so far, and the way forward. She particularly acknowledged the program’s significant contribution to the rise in postgraduate enrolment in Africa but also its earmarking of over 30% of this enrolment for females through targeted scholarships and other opportunities, especially in STEM education and other male-dominated areas.

Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana
Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana

The Vice Chancellor also highlighted the ACE program’s achievements in international benchmarking, culminating in the accreditation of over 133 academic programs; improved teaching, learning, and tracking; and enhanced industry linkages and cross-border collaborations. Prof. Amfo also acknowledged the ACE program’s development impact, citing the classical cases of the three leading University of Ghana ACEs. She hailed the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI) for developing several seed varieties and tightening food security in Ghana and Africa, the West Africa Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) for sequencing genomes and helping to save a lot of black lives during the Ebola and COVID-19 global pandemics, and the West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC), the first of its kind in Africa for working assiduously to reverse Africa’s sickle cell disease narrative.
For the way forward, Prof Amfo proposed unending partnerships and collaborations and the need to attract, motivate, and retain top-tier global researchers and obtain political will, favorable policy, and sufficient budgetary allocations. Ending her keynote address, Prof Amfo urged higher education stakeholders to leverage the remarkable research outcomes of the ACEs to address global and continental challenges, acknowledging universities as key players in national and global economies.

Following the opening ceremony, the second plenary session convened a panel of academic experts, policymakers, and development partners to identify strategies, share experiences, and develop a roadmap for the future. This panel discussion session was moderated by World Bank’s Acting Regional Practice Director for Africa Regional Integration, Franz Drees-Gross. On the panel was Malawi’s Minister for Higher Education, Honorable Dr Jessie Kabwire, who appreciated the contribution of the ACE program to the government’s delivery of economic development, especially in terms of creating jobs for its people. She also acknowledged Malawi’s increasing enrolment and narrowing gaps in higher education, especially relative to quality assurance and the localization of the Malawian educational system and aligning it with the country’s value system.
Reiterating economic growth as one of Guinea’s benefits from the ACE program, Economy and Finance Minister, Honorable Mourana Soumah, also linked the ACE model to the vision of the government of Guinea. Advocating enhanced and sustained benefits, the minister called on key stakeholders to work very closely together, leveraging the shared vision and the power of collaborations. She pledged the Guinean government’s continuous commitment and cooperation to ensure the maximum impact of the ACE model not only in Guinea but also in Africa.

From WACCI’s perspective, the Center Leader, Professor Eric Danquah, enumerated the center’s achievements and impacts, as including the training of over 120 PhDs who were trailing the blaze, leading major agriculture research hubs, and impacting numerous African lives as well as the development of over 250 seed varieties that were contributing to averting the prospect of food shortage in Africa. He also outlined the center’s succession and sustainability plans, demonstrating how these plans aligned with the University of Ghana’s strategic plan and would ensure seamless autonomous running, robust governance, and enhanced impacts beyond World Bank’s funding, AAU’s technical support, and the university’s supervision. Prof Danquah highlighted the center’s plan to commercialize the hundreds of seed varieties it had developed, create an endowment fund, intensify grant proposal writing, recruit and retain top-tier scientists from across the world, and tap into the government of Ghana’s proposed 24-hour economy to sustain WACCI’s existence, activities, and achievements.

Re-echoing the sentiments of the Guinean Minister of Economy and Finance Minister, Mourana Soumah, Ms Sophia Ndemutila Ashipala, Head of Education at the African Union Commission, and Ms Gabrielle Leroux, Higher Education Lead at the French Development Agency, intimated how education, specifically higher education and research, was a central priority to their organizations’ visions, recognizing the major roles universities play in achieving the sustainable development goals. They expressed their organizations’ continuous support to replicate and spread the ACE model across the continent’s higher education institutions.

The two opening plenaries set the tone for a reflective and forward-looking event whose subsequent high-level discussions on sustaining and scaling the ACE program underscored the pivotal role in strengthening African higher education, building research capacity, and solving regional development challenges.

Presidential Endorsement Cements ACE Program’s Status as a Model of Distinction for Africa’s Higher Education Transformation

At the 10th Anniversary celebration of the Africa Higher Education Centres of Excellence (ACE) programme, the President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama emphasised that ‘the ACE Program has emerged as a model of distinction, fostering innovation, nurturing world-class expertise, and strengthening institutional capacities in critical sectors such as health, agriculture, engineering, and applied sciences’. President Mahama highlighted the ACE Program’s transformative journey as being a powerful testament to what can be achieved through collaboration in higher education. ‘From advancing cutting-edge research in infectious diseases and renewable energy to driving innovation in agriculture and digital technology, ACE has become a beacon of regional integration and cooperation and has demonstrated that when nations, institutions and development partners come together, the impact is exponential’- he added.

President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama
President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama

The 10th anniversary celebration of the ACE programme was successfully co-organised by the Association of African Universities (AAU) and the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), with the support of the World Bank and the French Development Agency (AFD). Held at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, Ghana, from April 7-9, 2025, this high-level forum brought together over 500 esteemed stakeholders, including African governments, higher education institutions, industry leaders, development agencies, civil society representatives, and media professionals.

The formal opening session on April 7, 2025 also featured an opening message from Honourable Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Education of the Republic of Ghana, and a high-level address from Mr. Ousmane Diagana, Regional Vice President for Western and Central Africa at the World Bank. A short video presentation showcasing the ACE Program’s decade-long achievements, including key project highlights, was also screened for participants.

ACEs Impactful Contributions to National and Regional Economies

President John Mahama highlighted the pivotal role of the Centres of Excellence in transforming higher education and research as well as the economies of countries through their various impactful interventions in their respective focus areas.

He cited exemplary centres in Ghana, including the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI), which has become a key player in enhancing agricultural productivity across the region, prioritising improving crop varieties and making significant strides in addressing food security in the subregion. Mention was also made of the highly trained graduates from WACCI who are now leaders in agricultural research, positively impacting food systems in Ghana and across the broader West African region.

The West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) was also recognised for its significant contributions to scientific research and innovation in health, particularly in the study and diagnosis of infectious diseases. WACCBIP’s achievements, as outlined during the president’s address included training a diverse pool of scientists who have played a pivotal role in advancing diagnostic tools and therapeutic methods, especially in the fight against emerging diseases. The centres’ immense role in researching and testing during the COVID-19 pandemic was said to be invaluable, further cementing its place as a leading health research institution.

Additionally, the West Africa Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) was commended for its pioneering work in genetic research and counseling services, tackling genetic health issues such as sickle cell disease. As the first of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa, WAGMC’s efforts in promoting genetic testing and awareness were underscored as being transformative, particularly in Ghana, where genetic health challenges are of major concern.

More generally, and beyond the Ghana- specific examples, the Centres of Excellence have made significant strides in enhancing graduate employability, advancing research, and promoting programme accreditation, outreach, and scholarly publications. For example, the Center for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa’s (CDT-Africa) research on clinical trials and medicine development has developed over 15 medicinal products with five submitted for patenting to the national intellectual property office in Ethiopia.

Julien Dushimimana, an alumni from the Africa Center of Excellence in Energy for Sustainable Development (ACEESD) in Rwanda, developed the Right Lamp Automatic Changeover Switch, a device that automates the process of switching between solar power and the national power grid.

Evidently, by fostering cutting-edge research and innovation, these centers have not only elevated Africa’s research landscape but also cultivated a new generation of accomplished African scientists, thereby positioning the continent as a pivotal player in global academic and research advancement.

 

The Future Prospects of ACE

Looking ahead, President Mahama envisioned a bright future for the ACE program, driven by the growing demand for research-led solutions, skilled professionals, and regionally relevant innovations. According to the President, the ACEs are uniquely positioned to meet this demand, serving as hubs of excellence that can catalyze socio-economic transformation across the continent. He added that with sustained support from governments, donors, and the private sector, these centers can amplify their impact, foster regional integration, and propel Africa toward a knowledge-based future.

The President further emphasized that collaboration in scientific research remains pivotal in addressing the key barriers in responding to Africa’s most pressing developmental challenges, including skills gaps in emerging industries and high capital costs in critical sectors like renewable energy. He stressed that strategic partnerships between universities, industry actors, and public institutions will be instrumental in ensuring that higher education responds to real economic needs

 

Recognising ACE’s Commitment to Gender Inclusivity in STEM

President Mahama commended the ACE Program for its remarkable contribution to promoting gender inclusion in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, where women remain underrepresented. He noted the program’s impressive strides in increasing female enrollments, offering targeted scholarships, providing mentorship initiatives, and building institutional cultures that recognize and respond to the unique challenges faced by women in scientific and technical careers.

The President also emphasized that as Africa navigates the Fourth Industrial Revolution, addressing the shortage of advanced digital skills will be critical. In his vision for the ACE Program’s next decade, he underscored the importance of investment in higher education to drive Africa’s transformation and secure a brighter future for generations to come. By leveraging digital technologies, including artificial intelligence and robotics, ACEs can enhance program access and quality, ultimately empowering Africa’s brightest minds and ensuring the continent’s competitiveness and innovation on the global stage, he added.

 

Education Minister’s Message on Advancing Education and Research

In a high-level message to participants, Honourable Haruna Iddrisu, Ghana’s Minister of Education, expressed the Ministry’s commitment to advancing higher education and research, assuring participants of President Mahama’s dedication to this cause. Notably, the President has directed the operationalization of a national research fund, with an initial allocation of US $5 million. Furthermore, the minister announced initiatives aimed at promoting academic excellence and supporting students. These include domestic scholarships, with a directive for every public university to receive dedicated funding from the Ghana Education Trust Fund to support the training of five PhD students locally. This initiative aims to build faculty capacity and enhance academic research. The government’s upcoming launch of a sanitary pad initiative to support young girls who struggle with absenteeism due to inability to afford menstrual products was also highlighted, in line with promoting girls’ education.

Honourable Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Education of the Republic of Ghana
Honourable Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Education of the Republic of Ghana

The minister also encouraged the ACE Programme to consider establishing can Africa Center of Excellence in Youth Empowerment and Youth Development, to address growing unemployment, including graduate unemployment, by providing critical skills and support.

Additionally, Honourable Haruna Iddrisu highlighted the government’s interest in traditional medicine, recognizing its potential benefits, as well as the interest in focusing on infrastructural development, calling on the World Bank and other partners to support this area. The Minister also emphasized the importance of enhancing academic freedom, underscoring the President’s commitment to this principle. Moreover, Honourable Haruna Iddrisu highlighted the importance of foundational learning in Africa, citing inadequacies in literacy and numeracy in the case of Ghana.

 

About the ACE Programme

The Africa’s Higher Education Centers of Excellence (ACE) program is the first large scale regional program funded by the World Bank in the higher education sector in Africa. Through a series of three projects – ACE1 (2014-2020); ACE2 (2016 to date); and ACE Impact (2019 to date)— the program has supported competitively selected ACEs with specializations in regional development priority areas to deliver high-quality postgraduate training, skills-upgrading for professionals, applied research, entrepreneurship and innovation in priority sectors such as science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), agriculture, health, environment, and education. Across these projects, the World Bank has committed a total of US$657 million in support to participating governments, with an additional co-financing of US$72 million equivalent from the French Development Agency (AFD) for the ACE Impact project. In total, the ACE Program has supported some 80 centers in more than 50 universities across 20 countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Association of African Universities (AAU) has provided regional facilitation support for two phases of the program: ACE I and ACE Impact, while the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) serves as the regional facilitation unit for ACE II, underscoring shared regional coordination efforts.

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

Background and Context

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

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

Enhancing Entrepreneurship and Innovation Through ACE Impact

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

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

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

The Learning Visit: Strengthening Innovation Ecosystems

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

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

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

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

Key Takeaways and Way Forward

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

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

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

Conclusion

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

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

Virtual 12th Regional Workshop Highlights Progress and Sustainability

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A networking session
A networking session

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

Transforming Higher Education in Africa

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

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

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

Record-Breaking Progress: The Numbers Speak

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

Accelerating Infrastructure Development

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

Developing Groundbreaking Innovations

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

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

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

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

Strengthening Community Ties

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

Recognizing Excellence: ACE Leaders Gaining Global Acclaim

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

ACE @10: A Decade of Excellence in Higher Education

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

What’s Next? Securing the Future of ACE Impact

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

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

A Results-Based Approach to Higher Education Transformation

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

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

Results-Based Financing: Driving Impact with Accountability

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

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

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

How Verification Works: A Structured Process

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

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

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

Performance Highlights: DLI Achievement Rates as of October 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

The workshop will focus on:

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

 

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

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

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

Media Contact:

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

About the ACE Project

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

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

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

Contact: smkandawire@aau.org | Association of African Universities | P. O. Box AN 5744,
Accra-North, Ghana | Tel +233-547-728975 All Rights Reserved © 2022