Opportunities – Page 2 – ACE – Africa Higher Education Centres of Excellence

December 8, 2020

Call for Application to Masters Degrees’ at ACETEL

Introduction

The Africa Centre of Excellence on Technology Enhanced Learning (ACETEL) is a World Bank, Association of African Universities, and Nigeria’s National Universities Commission supported regional centre of excellence focusing on the development of human capacity and research in digital solutions that will lead to the utilisation of technology for education. The Centre aims to bridge the technology knowledge gap and achieve high levels of digital development for the African continent.

The ACETEL is domiciled at the headquarters of the National Open University of Nigeria, Jabi, Abuja. The Centre team comprises of national and international scholars drawn from relevant fields of science as well as public and private sector stakeholders. The Centre, is commencing postgraduate programmes for the 2020/2021 Academic Session in the following fields:

MSc and Ph.D Artificial Intelligence
MSc and Ph.D Cyber Security
MSc and Ph.D Management Information System

The ACETEL is therefore, requesting interested and suitably qualified candidates to apply for admission into any of the above indicated postgraduate programmes. Application forms are available at www.acetel.nou.edu.ng.

Interested candidates should follow the online application procedure laid down below:

Visit the ACETEL Website https://acetel.nou.edu.ng/
Click on Apply Now
Click on Application Portal Registration to create your account.
On successful creation of your account, you will receive an email with directions to create a password and instructions to visit Remita to generate an RRR invoice which should be used to effect payment for the application form.
After payment and obtaining the payment receipt Click on ONLINE APPLICATION FORM.
Fill in the details, upload relevant documents and submit
Acknowledgement and Admission letters will be sent via your indicated email address after your application has been processed

Admission Requirements for the Programmes are Outline Below

1. MSc. Artificial Intelligence Entry Requirements
To be admitted into the MSc. Artificial Intelligence (AI) programme, a Candidate is expected to fulfil the following requirements:

A Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum of Second Class Upper in a computer related degree or Mathematics, Physics, Engineering or other degrees with
substantial mathematics content.
OR
A minimum of 3.0 at the PGD level in a computer related degree E.g. Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Technology.
Note: For candidates from Physics, Mathematics, Statistics and Engineering (except Computer and Electrical/ Electronics Engineering), a PGD can serve as a bridge Course to qualify for admission into MSc AI.
Candidates are expected to have taken the following background (or their equivalents) courses:
i) Algorithms, Programming, Algorithm design and analysis.
ii) Basic probability, statistics and algebra, Linear algebra and Discrete Mathematics.
In addition, candidates must possess a minimum of five credits in SSCE/GCE/NECO/NABTEB or its equivalent, at not more than two (2) sittings, in the following subjects: English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Further Mathematics.

2. MSc. Cyber Security Entry Requirements
To be admitted into the MSc. Cyber Security programme, a candidate is expected to fulfil the following minimum requirements:

A Bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution with a Second Class Lower in Cyber Security, Information Technology, Communication Technology, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electrical/ Electronics, Mathematics, Physics, Physics Electronics, Physics with Mathematics
OR
A minimum of 3.0 from a recognised institution at the PGD level in Cyber Security, Information Technology, Computer Science, Communication
Technology, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electrical/ Electronics, Mathematics, Physics, Physics Electronics, Physics with Mathematics
In addition, the candidate must possess a minimum of five credits in SSCE/GCE/NECO/NABTEB or its equivalent, at not more than two (2) sittings,
in the following subjects: English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and any of the following Biology, Agricultural Science, Computer Studies or
Further Mathematics.

3. MSc. Management Information Systems Entry Requirements
To be admitted into the MSc. Management Information System, a candidate is expected to fulfil the following minimum requirements:

A Bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution with a minimum of Second Class Lower in Cyber Security, Information Technology, Communication
Technology, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electrical/ Electronics, Mathematics, Physics, Physics Electronics, Physics with Mathematics
OR
A minimum of 3.0 from a recognised institution at the PGD level in Cyber Security, Information Technology, Computer Science, Communication Technology, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electrical/ Electronics, Mathematics, Physics, Physics Electronics, Physics with Mathematics
In addition, the candidate must possess a minimum of five credits in SSCE/GCE/NECO/NABTEB or its equivalent, at not more than two (2) sittings,
in the following subjects: English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and any of the following Biology, Agricultural Science, Computer Studies or
Further Mathematics.

4. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD.) Artificial Intelligence Entry Requirement
Candidates for Ph.D. admission must satisfy the following conditions:

Candidates must have five credit passes including English, Mathematics and two other relevant science subjects at ‘O’ Level.
Candidates with Bachelor’s degree from an approved university must obtain a minimum of second class Lower division with a CGPA of 2.5/5.0.
Candidates must have Academic Master’s degree in relevant areas with a CGPA of 4.0/5.0 and thesis score not lower than 60% (B). A Master’s degree in
Machine Learning or a closely related field will be an advantage.
All applicants are expected to be competent in programming and have a strong mathematical background.
Holders of equivalent qualification/experience specified for the course recognized by the Senate may be considered for admission

5. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD.) Cyber Security Entry Requirement
Candidates seeking for admission into the Ph. D. degree programme in Cyber Security must satisfy the following general and specific requirements.

Candidates must have attained a minimum of five (5) credits passes including English, Mathematics and two other relevant science subjects at
‘O’ Level at not more than two sittings.
Candidates with Bachelor’s degree from an approved university must attain a minimum of Second-Class Lower division with a CGPA of 2.5/5.0.
Candidates must have attained a Master’s degree (i.e. M.Sc., M.Tech., M. Phil,) in Cyber Security Science, Computer Science or Information Technology from National Open University of Nigeria or from any other University recognized by the Senate of National Open University of Nigeria with a CGPA of 4.0/5.0
They are expected to have attained a grade not lower than a ‘B’ grade (60%) in their thesis

6. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD.) Management Information Systems Entry Requirement
Candidates seeking for admission into the Ph. D. degree programme must satisfy the following general and specific requirements.

Satisfy the minimum five (5) credits requirement for admission into the postgraduate programme including English and Mathematics.
Candidates with Bachelor’s degree from an approved university must attain a minimum of Second-Class Lower division with a CGPA of 2.5/5.0
Holders of a Master degree (M.Sc., M.Tech., M.Phil, or equivalent) in Cyber Security Science/Computer Science from National Open University of Nigeria
or from any other University recognized by the Senate of National Open University of Nigeria with a minimum CGPA of 4.0 on a scale of 5.00 or weighted average of 60% or an average of performance of “B” grade.
Holders of equivalent qualification/experience specified for the course recognized by the Senate may be considered for admission.

The deadline for application and ACETEL Scholarship is 30th December, 2020.

NOTE:

ACETEL will offer scholarship to suitably qualified candidates. Please visit ACETEL website at www.acetel.nou.edu.ng for the Scholarship Application Form and further details.
Enquiries on ACETEL Programmes, Scholarship as well as the DSTN Scholarship should be forwarded to ACETEL email: acetel@noun.edu.ng or call 08123030665
For national students, application form cost N20, 000.00 and N30, 000.00 for MSc and Ph.D. programmes respectively.
For international students, application form cost $155 and $233 for MSc and Ph.D. programmes respectively

November 5, 2020November 5, 2020

Call for Applications – RWESK Centre Fellows

Background

The Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre Kumasi (RWESCK) is a Regional Centre of Excellence at the Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana. The Centre specializes in the delivery of high-quality post-graduate programmes at the PhD and MSc level as well as professional development courses in Water and Sanitation. As part of its mandate, the Centre engages in high quality research in water and environmental sanitation relevant to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Africa Union Agenda 2063. RWESCK has strong local academic and industrial partners as well as solid international relations with top Universities across the globe.

RWESCK intends to harness the expertise of local and international faculty members and entrepreneurs to collaborate with the Centre to deliver high quality academic, research and entrepreneurial activities for mutual benefits.

The Centre therefore has the pleasure to invite eligible applicants, both local and international as Fellows of the Centre.

Eligibility

Eligible candidates should have the following minimum qualification;

A PhD in a discipline related to the research themes of the Centre;

Theme 1: Innovative Water Treatment Technology
Theme 2: Innovative Water Distribution and Smart Technology
Theme 3: Environmental Sanitation and Waste Management Technology
Theme 4: Climate Resilience and Water Resources Management
Theme 5: Water and Sanitation Governance

Relevant professional experience related to the above themes
Must have supervised both undergraduate and graduate students
Must have publications in high impact journals
Must demonstrate evidence of grantsmanship
Must demonstrate strong linkages with local and/or international partners
Applicants with a minimum of Masters degree but have a minimum of 10 years post qualification experience in entrepreneurship or business development will be considered. Such applicants must show evidence of business incubation, innovations and technology development in areas related to the above themes.

Core duties

Eligible candidates would be required to collaborate with the Centre in one or more of the following areas;

Joint supervision of postgraduate students
Joint publications
Delivery of PhD and MSc course
Design and delivery of short courses
Delivery of technical workshops and webinars
Grant writing
Intellectual Property/Patent
Mentoring of Early Career Faculty
Mentoring of PhD and MSc students
Community engagement

Interested applicants should submit their application via the link (Here!) by Monday, November 30, 2020.

July 16, 2020

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL SAFEGUARDS SPECIALIST

(CONSULTING SERVICES – INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT SELECTION)

Country Regional / Ghana

Project Title Africa Higher Education Centers of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact)

GRANT No. D4293

Project ID No. P164546

Assignment Title: Consultancy Services for the engagement of Environmental and Social Safeguards Specialist at the Regional Facilitation Unit of the Association of African Universities

Reference No.: GH-AAU-81649-CS-INDV

The Association of African Universities has received financing from the World Bank toward the cost of the First Africa Higher Education Centers of Excellence for Development Impact Projects (ACE Impact 1 and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services.

Objectives of the assignment

The main objective the consultancy is to support and strengthen Safeguards due diligence of the Regional Facilitating Unit in ensuring compliance with World Banks Safeguards Policies and relevant National Environmental and social laws of participating countries of the ACE Impact Project.

The consultant shall provide clear, comprehensive and practical guidance to the RFU, country focal points (government representatives responsible for coordinating at the national level) and universities on integrating an environmental / social due diligence process from the prepared ESMF and site specific ESMPs during the specific ACE project implementation.

The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can be found by clicking on the link below:

https://blog.aau.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/TOR-for-Engagement-of-ES-Consultant-for-RFU.docx

The Association of African Universities now invites eligible individuals (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services.

Competency and Expertise

Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services.

The shortlisting criteria are:

At least Masters’ degree in Environment or Natural Resources Management or Social Sciences or related disciplines
At least ten (10) years’ working experience in environmental and social assessment for development projects
Possession of relevant professional qualifications in Environmental issues
Familiarity World Bank’s safeguard policies and procedures
Fluency in English and French and ability to write and present in these languages.

The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” July 2016 and revised in November 2017, and August 2018 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest available on this link http://pubdocs.worldbank.org/en/178331533065871195/Procurement-Regulations.pdf .

Individual consultants will be selected will be selected in accordance with the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” July 2016 and revised in November 2017, and August 2018 (“Procurement Regulations”).

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours 0900 to 1700 hours.

Expression of Interest

Interested individual Consultants must provide information (Detailed CV, cover letter and relevant educational and professional qualification documentation) indicating that they are qualified to perform the services for the specific position described above.

Expressions of interest must be delivered by registering using this link https://www.research.net/r/ESSSAce20 by Tuesday July 28, 2020

Contact:

Sylvia Mkandawire (Dr.) Program Manager ACE Impact

Association of African Universities

African Universities House, Trinity Avenue, East Legon, Accra, Ghana

P. O. Box AN 5744, Accra-North, Ghana

skandawire@aau.org

https://www.aau.org

May 8, 2020

KEEP Opens Applications for PhD, MPhil and MSc Programmes in Engineering

The College of Engineering at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) calls for applications into its PhD, MPhil and MSc Programmes in Engineering.

PhD Programme

The College, through the School of Graduate Studies, KNUST is pleased to announce the availability of limited partial funding to pursue a 3-year full time programmes in the following:
• PhD Bio-engineering
• PhD Computer Engineering
• PhD Materials Engineering
• PhD Sustainable Energy Technologies
• PhD Telecommunications Engineering
• PhD Chemical Engineering
• PhD Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Female candidates are highly encouraged to apply to take advantage of the funding opportunities available.

Entry Requirement
In conformity with the entry requirement of the School of Graduate Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, the successful candidate should have a minimum of:
• First or Second Class (Upper Division) in first degree
• Good Master’s degree with an average of at least 60%. Please refer to (POSTGRADUATE ADMISSIONS BROCHURE) for specific requirements related to the programme being applied for.
• Age limit is 40 years
In addition
• Candidates from non-Anglophone countries must have an internationally recognized Certificate of Proficiency in the English Language (TOEFL or British Council, IELTS)with above average score or be available to attend a three (3) months English language course at KNUST.
• Candidates with one publication in a journal as first author have an advantage.
• Evidence of current and previous employments.

Masters Programme (MSc/MPhil)

The College of Engineering is pleased to announce that limited partially-funded scholarships are available for applicants from Ghana and West African Countries to pursue 18 months full-time MSc programme or 24 months MPhil in the following specializations:
• MPhil Computer Engineering
• MPhil Bio-engineering
• MPhil Materials Engineering
• MPhil Power Systems Engineering
• MPhil Chemical Engineering
• MPhil Renewable Energy Technologies
• MPhil Telecommunications Engineering
• MSc Cyber Security and Digital Forensics
• MSc Renewable Energy Technologies

Females are encouraged to apply to take advantage of the funding opportunities available.

Entry Requirement

In conformity with the entry requirement of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, the successful candidate will should have a minimum of:
• First or Second Class (Upper Division) in first degree in a relevant field. Please refer to (POSTGRADUATE ADMISSIONS BROCHURE) for relevant degrees for admission into your programme of choice.
• Candidates from non-Anglophone countries must have an internationally recognised Certificate of Proficiency in the English Language (TOEFL or British Council, IELTS) with above average score or be available to attend a three (3) months English language course at KNUST.

Completing Application Form
• Ghanaian Students: Candidates must purchase an e-voucher by paying the application fee of Two Hundred and Fifty Ghana Cedis (GH¢250.00) at the following banks: GCB, Consolidated Bank (CBG) or Ecobank. Upon payment of application fee, candidiates would receive an eVoucher containing an application number and pin that would grant access to the online admission portal. Candidates should then proceed to the online admission portal (https://apps.knust.edu.gh/admissions/) and begin the application process.
• International students: Access the KNUST application form via: Admission Portal (https://apps.knust.edu.gh/admissions/)and complete application form and attach all relevant documents
• Once the process has been completed, candidates MUST PRINT OUT 2 COPIES of the completed application form from the portal and submit signed copies (by post) to the School of Graduate Studies together with all relevant documents including Photocopies of Certificates, Recommendation Letters, and Transcript to the following address:
The Secretary
School of Graduate Studies
KNUST
Kumasi-Ghana

Deadline for the submission of application forms is 30th June, 2020.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to attend a selection interview in Kumasi OR via telephone/Skype. The date of the interview will be communicated after short listing.

Application supporting documents
• Completed application form with Two passport photographs
• Detailed CV and two letters of reference (one from a supervisor at the Master’s level)
• Official transcripts and certificates for BSc and MSc degrees
• Proof of ability to communicate in English for Candidates from non-Anglophone countries
• PhD and MPhil candidates are to submit soft and hard copies of a letter of motivation (max. two pages) with the heading outlining why you want to study, what makes you well-suited to study in your chosen specialization, current occupation, how the Programme will fit into your professional vision, how your home country stands to benefit after your training.
• PhD and MPhil candidates are to submit both soft and hard copies of a short concept note (max. 3 pages) outlining the justification, objectives, methodology and expected outcomes of a research idea.

Contact
All inquiries should be sent via email keep@knust.edu.gh

October 17, 2018

(New Dates) Strengthening the delivery of post-graduate Education in African Universities

Workshop on Innovations in Teaching and Learning

Strengthening the delivery of post-graduate Education in African Universities

Hosted by AquaFish ACE LUANAR & AAU

~~19-23 November 2018~~, Lilongwe, Malawi

NEW DATES: 4-8 FEBRUARY 2019

Registration Link: https://www.research.net/r/AquaFish

Background

Teaching if done properly results in “quality” academic outputs, that is, the graduates and research. The indicators of quality graduates include ability to conduct research, possessing critical thinking skills, ability to facilitate multi-stakeholder engagements, having entrepreneurial skills, ability to make presentations, exhibiting good written and verbal communication skills, having confidence, displaying life-long learning skills and having the ability to synthesize key information, among several other indicators. African Higher Education institutions continue to be challenged to produce graduates that can solve problems and contribute to the development of their countries. This therefore implies that universities must review how they teach and reflect on how their students learn effectively.

Examples of Innovative teaching and learning methods

Confucius, a Chinese teacher, editor, politician, and philosopher is quoted as having said “I hear and I forget. I see and I believe. I do and I understand”. This statement links very well with the concept of being innovative in teaching. Clearly innovative methods of teaching and learning require a total mindset change in terms of the roles of the professors and the learners. The innovative methods also allow the learning to be two-way. These new ways facilitate practical exposure for students, experiential learning and role-based learning. The new learning solutions and methods thus become student centered with the objective of producing that “quality graduate”. Some examples of innovative teaching and learning methods include:

Flipped Classroom
Role-based learning
Internships in relevant industries and corporate organizations
Problem Solving linked to real Community Engagements
Twinning programs to promote cross-learning
Regional seminars to facilitate sharing of expertise
Case based learning for fields such as medicine and health
Problem based learning
Group work assignments
Field Visits
Technology-assisted learning (mobile, learning management systems, multimedia technologies, etc)

Excellence in Education and Research Capacity and Development Impact

The Disbursement Linked Indicator 2 (DLI 2) under the Africa Centers of Excellence project places emphasis on “excellence in education and research capacity and development impact”. The sub-indicators further expound on “improved teaching and learning environment as per approved proposal”. The DLI document states that the “implementation plan for each ACE will clearly describe 4 annual main milestones for improving of teaching and learning environment based upon the specific activities to be undertaken by the ACE”. Besides `the creation of conducive physical learning environments through constructing classrooms and equipping of laboratories it is important for the ACEs to articulate how else they are strengthening their teaching delivery methods so that they produce quality graduates.

About the proposed workshop

The Association of African Universities and AquaFish ACE hosted by Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources will deliver a five-day workshop on ‘Innovations in Teaching and Learning’ to spark discussions and understanding how AquaFish ACE is implementing innovative teaching methods and what else they could be doing to improve in this area. The key objectives of the workshop will be to:

Discuss key concepts and case studies on innovative teaching and learning methods
Deliberate on the challenges and opportunities associated with supervising graduate students
Exploring the use of technology to improve teaching delivery methods in African Universities
Participate in learning visits to institutions in Lilongwe that have begun implementing innovative methods of teaching and learning

Draft Program

DAY	PROPOSED ACTIVITIES
DAY 1	A broad presentation that lays the ground on key concepts around innovative teaching and learning methods and practices Hold a brainstorming session in small groups: to discuss why teaching methods need to be reviewed and what to change? This is meant to help in identifying major deficiencies in current higher education delivery by African Universities. This will also discuss the question of “are students graduating from the African Universities adequately trained to respond to the needs of the society?” to discuss the ‘How’ question and share ideas – and suggest proposals to correct the identified deficiencies. Role play the practical implementation of Experiential Learning
DAY 2	Challenges and Opportunities associated with Supervising Graduate Students in African Universities – (what is quality supervision, students’ expectations, supervisor expectations) Importance of the student-supervisor relationship and the various factors that influence it. Strategies to overcome the challenges of a range of supervisory contexts Developing resources for effective research supervision practices
DAY 3	A presentation on how selected universities in Africa are exploring with technology to improve their teaching delivery methods – e.g. mobile learning, use of learning management systems, etc Foundational Theories: Review of Relevant Concepts Principles of E-learning Course Design & Development Experiential Learning Visit to an institution in Lilongwe that has done well in implementing e-learning
DAY 4	Hands On Sessions : Course / Learning Management Systems
DAY 5	Experiential Learning Visit to an institution in Lilongwe that has done well in implementing e-learning

How To Register

Registration Link: https://www.research.net/r/AquaFish

What are the deadlines?
• Early round registration deadline: 31 December, 2018
• Regular registration deadline: 21 January, 2019
• Late registration: Dependent on space

Workshop Fees– include Workshop Tuition, Workshop Materials, Refreshments and Certificates

USD 500 for staff from AAU Member Institutions
USD 600 for staff from non-AAU Member Institutions
Participants from Malawi must consult the AquaFish ACE for details on their participation Fees (Email: jkangombe@luanar.ac.mw)

Contact Details

Association of African Universities: Miss Edith LAARI: elaari@aau.org

AquaFish ACE: Professor Jeremiah KANG’OMBE: jkangombe@luanar.ac.mw

Download the Workshop flyer: AquaFish-Continental Flyer

June 13, 2018

Pre-Announcement – Africa Centers of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) Project

Countries Eligible for Participation (Anticipated)

REPUBLIC OF BURKINA FASO
REPUBLIC OF CAMEROON
REPUBLIC OF DJIBOUTI
REPUBLIC OF GHANA
REPUBLIC OF GUINEA
REPUBLIC OF TOGO
REPUBLIC OF THE GAMBIA
REPUBLIC OF NIGER
FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA
REPUBLIC OF SENEGAL
(Other countries may join following the discussions between the World Bank, national governments and other potential financiers)

A. Introduction
The Africa Centers of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) project anticipates the formal launch of a Call for Proposals in June 2018. Eligible higher education institutions from participating countries in West and Central Africa will be encouraged to submit proposals that address a regional Development Challenge through a focused program of postgraduate education and applied research.

This pre-announcement letter has been released to introduce the anticipated project, and to share a draft version of the Call for Proposals so that potential applicants can begin developing their proposals.

B. Objective and Expected Results
The Project development objective is to improve quality, quantity and development impact of postgraduate education in selected universities through regional specialization and collaboration.
The expected results of the proposed project include:

Increase in the number of students (with a focus on regional and female students) enrolled and graduating from the masters and PhD programs
Improvement in the quality of programs (including increase in number of programs and ACE host institutions that obtain international accreditation, stronger regional and global partnerships)
Improvement in the relevance of the trainings and applied research evident through:
- Increase in amount of externally generated income
- Increase in number of industry/sectoral partners and stronger commitments from these partners (through funding, internships, advisory board participation, etc.)
Increase in regional networks
Evidence of substantial development impact attributable to the project.

C. ACE-Impact Components
Proposals may be submitted through the national governments to the ACE Impact project either under the Component 1 or the Component 2 process. Please refer to page 4 for the list of contact persons for each participating country.

(i) Component 1 has two Sub-components: Sub-component 1.1 will provide support to newly established centers of excellence; and Sub-component 1.2 will provide additional support to existing centers with a record of excellence in the ACE I Project. Each Component 1 ACE center will address a regional development challenge through high quality postgraduate education, targeted applied research, and short courses for mid-career professionals. Partnerships with national, regional, and global industry, sectoral actors and academic institutions will ensure that the ACEs focus their activities on the relevant education and research needs to solve specific problems associated with the development challenges.

Approximately ten Component 1 centers are anticipated to be supported in pre-identified thematic sectors, and must respond to specific topical Terms of Reference that will be specified in the formal Call for Proposals. These sectors are expected to include water, ICT, power (energy), urban design, coastal degradation, environmental/social safeguards, math/science education, quantitative economics and health. The Terms of Reference will focus on the training/skills needs as well as some particular research priorities that the centers are expected to address.

A further 15-20 Component 1 centers will be supported in topical areas that address a Development Challenge, but are not subject to pre-identified Terms of Reference.

(ii) Component 2 will provide support to strengthen emerging centers in countries with higher education systems that are not yet mature enough to be competitive under Component 1. This component will provide targeted support to build national undergraduate and postgraduate education and support to engage in regional applied research in thematic areas of regional need. Those institutions supported through Component 2 will be expected to partner with ACEs supported under Component 1 to strengthen regional academic networks and build education and research capacity.

D. Draft Call for Proposals
Attached to this pre-announcement letter is the draft Proposal template. While this draft Proposal template may not be the final version formally released in June, the basic structure and objectives of the Call for Proposals is expected to remain consistent. Those institutions that intend to submit a proposal are encouraged to begin proposal development with the expectation that the broad sections described will remain.

This draft Call for Proposals is focused on Component 1.1 – new Centers of Excellence. Current ACE 1 Centers of Excellence seeking renewed (additional) funding through ACE Impact (Component 1.2) will respond to a similar call but are expected to provide additional content as part of their proposal, including incorporating results from ACE 1 to support the appropriate sections of their proposal. Component 2 proposals may address undergraduate education activities in addition to postgraduate education, while receiving needed regional technical assistance.

(i) Regional Scope
The ACE Impact project is designed to strengthen targeted regional higher education capacity of West and Central Africa. This regional focus is a key element of the project. In responding to the Call for Proposals, institutions should describe how the proposed center serves a regional need, and will grow its regional impact through education and research activities. ACE Impact centers are expected to serve as regional hubs – recruiting students from across the region (30% of center enrollments), building regional partnerships, and conducting applied research on a Development Challenge that is relevant for West and Central Africa.

(ii) Industry/Sectoral Engagement
The active participation of companies and/or sectoral1 stakeholders in defining and assisting in the education and applied research activities for each center is essential to the success of the ACE Impact project. Industry is uniquely positioned to inform each center of the skills needs to advance the sector and what coursework is necessary to prepare students for a rapidly changing workplace. In addition, regional industry actors are well-positioned to inform each center of the applied research needs to effectively support regional industry and to address the most pressing questions associated with the Development Challenges.

Institutions intending to respond to the ACE Impact Call for Proposals must reach out now to potential local, regional, and international industry partners. In addition to helping define the education and research goals of the proposed center, industry is expected to join the Industrial Advisory Board (IAB), and to contribute financially to the activities and sustainability of the ACE Impact centers. Evidence of strong commitments and demand from industry/sectoral partners are expected to be submitted (including commitment letters, market surveys, etc.)

(iii) Academic Partnerships
Academic partnerships – national, regional, and global – are encouraged for potential ACE Impact centers, and can be with individual collaborators or at the department/center/institutional level. In the proposal stage, institutions should identify academic partners who commit to collaborate with the center to support its mission. These partnerships may build upon previous collaborations, or may be new and indicate a need or opportunity for the proposed center. Partnerships may: (1) raise the education and research capacity of the proposed center by leveraging the expertise (and/or resources) offered by the partner and that may not exist at the center; (2) increase the capacity of partner institutions in the region to deliver quality education and research; and/or (3) build a network – with specializations among the members – that can raise regional capacity to address a Development Challenge.

E. Evaluation Process
All proposals submitted for Component 1 centers in the ACE Impact project will be evaluated through an open, rigorous, transparent, competitive and merit-based process consistent with international standards for funding centers of excellence. The evaluation process will consist of two sequential steps: Desk Evaluation of the written proposal; and On-site Visit to a short-list of proposed centers. The criteria that will be used to evaluate all proposals will be made available when the formal Call for Proposals is released.

1 Sectoral partners can include relevant public enterprises, Ministries, government agencies, public authorities, chambers of commerce, trade groups, hospitals, policymakers and other appropriate stakeholders.

F. Anticipated Timeline
The formal launch of the Call for Proposals for ACE Impact is expected to occur in June 2018. The Call for Proposals will include details on the evaluation and selection criteria, and again provide a list of national contact points (and, where appropriate, national ACE Impact project websites) for additional information related to the submission of proposals.

Proposals submitted under Component 1 will be due approximately three months after the Call for Proposals is launched (August 2018). The evaluation process is anticipated to be completed in October 2018, with selection of the ACE Impact Centers made by the Project Steering Committee by late October 2018. The formal launch of the ACE Impact Centers is planned for February 2019.

G. Partnerships
The ACE Impact project has sought to establish strategic partnerships with leading international research funding organizations, research performing organizations and national development organizations to strengthen the project. It is anticipated that Agence Française de Développement (AFD) will co-finance ACE centers with the governments and World Bank. Additional higher education and research agencies from France, Germany, Japan, the UK, China, Korea and the USA are expected to support researchers collaborating with the ACE Impact centers.

H. Contact Persons

Country	Contact Person(s)	Email
Republic of Burkina Faso	Mr Rasmane Kabore	ramaneka@hotmail.com
Republic of Cameroon	Prof Logmo aaron	logmoa2003@yahoo.fr
Republic of Djibouti	Dr Fahmi Ahmed	fahmi_gamal@yahoo.fr
Republic of Ghana	Prof Mohammed Salifu Mr Edmund Aalangdong	salifum@ncte.edu.gh edmoundan@yahoo.com
Republic of Guinea	Prof Mamadou Saliou Diallo	msbala.diallo@isfad-gn.org
Republic of Togo	Prof Kouami Kokou	kokoukouami@hotmail.com
Republic of The Gambia	Mr Yusupha Touray	yusuph77@gmail.com
Republic of Niger	Mme Sabo Haoua Seini	hseinisabo@yahoo.fr
Federal Republic of Nigeria	Dr Joshua Atah	jaatah@nuc.edu.ng
Republic of Senegal	Prof Amadou Abdoul Sow	amadouabdoul.sow@ucad.edu.sn

May 21, 2018

ACEGID Summer Workshop Training

The African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases(ACEGID), hosted by Redeemer’s University, Osun State, Nigeria is organizing a one (1) month summer foundational and advanced training workshop in genomics.

The Workshop is in two sessions. The first session, Foundational Training in Molecular Biology and Genomics is to be held from June 4- June 29. Courses in this session includes Molecular Biology Theory, Laboratory Techniques, PCR primer design, Sanger Sequencing, CRISPR Technology, Statistics among others. Rate is USD 500

The second session, Next generation Sequncing also includes the following courses; qRT-PCR, Library construction, MiSeq operation, Next generation sequencing, Bioinformatics analysis, Science communication and career development. This training also commences on July 16 and ends on August 10, 2018. Rate is USD 1000

Students, Faculty members and laboratory technicians are invited to participate in this workshop.

Click to download registration form

April 4, 2018

Invitation to Academic Faculty: The 2018 Education Collaborative Annual Workshop

THE 2018 EDUCATION COLLABORATIVE ANNUAL WORKSHOP
Hosted by Ashesi University, Berekuso, Ghana
From 25-29 June 2018
Focusing on “Facilitating Inclusive Classrooms”

We are inviting Provosts, Heads of Department, Academic Faculty, Teachers/Facilitators, and Faculty Trainers from Higher Educational Institutions across Africa to come and collaboratively share and co-design pedagogy to:

Make learning relatable
Make learning engaging
Make learning relevant and current

BACKGROUND

As a pioneer in blending the liberal arts and sciences in Africa, Ashesi University is recognised across the world as a model for higher education on the African continent.

The aim of the Education Collaborative Annual Workshop is to serve as a platform for Higher Education Institutions in Africa to engage and share with each other, best practices in teaching, learning, and university management. The pilot Education Collaborative at Ashesi was held in June of 2017, and 12 institutions participated. This year’s event will be held from 25-29 June 2018 and will focus on “Facilitating Inclusive Classrooms”.

WHY THE FOCUS ON FACILITATING INCLUSIVE CLASSROOMS?

To facilitate effective learning, the classroom environment must evolve to match the diversity in student population and increasing access to technology. This year’s collaborative is aimed at creating a platform for institutions looking to share and co-design strategies and tools for Facilitating Inclusive Classrooms. Sessions will be case-based and will be led by faculty of varied institutions from around Africa, and the world sharing tools and strategies they have tried in their classrooms with their students.

WHO MUST ATTEND?

Provosts, Faculty and classroom facilitators, Heads of faculty, Faculty trainers and others interested in improving their facilitator skills.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

Participants should expect Engaging Workshop Sessions, Hands-On Practical, Co-design tools and Empirical Case-based learning. During the 5 Days Residential workshop the following Session Topics will be covered:

Engaging learners with diverse learning styles and needs
Managing large classrooms (over 100 students)
Using current accessible technology in teaching and learning

ARE THERE ANY PREREQUISITES?

For a relatable and beneficial experience, collaborators attending must submit a problem statement of interest related to one or more of the session topics.

WHERE WILL THE 2018 EDUCATION COLLABORATIVE ANNUAL WORKSHOP BE HELD?

It will be held at the Ashesi university Campus in Berekuso, Ghana.

HOW CAN I PARTICIPATE?

WHAT ARE THE COSTS?

Cost includes hotel accommodation, meals, conference material and transportation to and from campus.

Ghana Participants: GHC 3,500*
African Institutions: US$1,000*
International Institutions: US$1,200*

*Discounts apply for institutions that register by the first round deadline with two or more participants, and for members of the council of independent universities. Financial assistance though limited is available on a case-by-case basis for institutions on the African continent.

Member institutions of the AAU will receive an additional 15% discount through to the second round deadline.

WHAT ARE THE DEADLINES?

Early round registration deadline: March 30, 2018
Regular registration deadline: May 21, 2018
Late registration: Dependent on space

HOW CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION?

For more information visit ashesi.edu.gh/edc
Email Rose Dodd at rdodd@ashesi.edu.gh or education.collaborative@ashesi.edu.gh
Or Call/WhatsApp Rose on: +233 027 121 7344
Download the 2018 Concept Note: 2018 Concept Note

March 9, 2018

Call to Participate – from IADE

Call to Participate – AAU Member Universities and other African Tertiary Institutions

Dear Vice Chancellors, Rectors, Presidents, Deans, Head of Departments and Senior Leaders

The Institute for the Advancement of Developing Economies (IADE) is calling for your participation in its proprietary Higher Education Capacity Building (HECB) Program. The IADE HECB is an innovative capacity building program that functions through a number of customizable program areas, designed to strategically advance the quality, competitiveness, and visibility of higher education institutions in Africa. The program tackles key issues limiting the advancement of higher education institutions in Africa. A HECB program area typically consists of several deliverables that will be administered to the participating institutions over a period of 12 months. IADE HECB program areas, approach, and deliverables are proprietary and designed to get the desired results for the participating institutions. IADE is also working on engaging with ministries/departments of education in various African countries.

The IADE HECB program areas include:

HECB Program Area 1: Positioning Institutions for International Funding Opportunities
HECB Program Area 2: Enhancing Institutions’ Scientific Research Publication Output and Visibility
HECB Program Area 3: Launching High-Impact Academic, Professional, and Certificate Programs
HECB Program Area 4: Applying and Preparing for International Accreditation

IADE also publishes the Journal for the Advancement of Developing Economies (JADE) and submission and publication is 100% FREE for all AAU-member institutions.

To sign up for these program areas please contact:
THEO UDEIGWE, PhD, CPSS
iade@developingeconomies.org
+ 1 225 715 3614
https://developingeconomies.org/hecb/