Events

Theme: Driving Collaborative Research and Innovation for Africa’s Developmental Impact

Introduction

Africa’s ability to address complex challenges and achieve socio-economic transformation depends on building a strong ecosystem of highly skilled scientists, innovators, and technology leaders, and leveraging science, technology, and innovation as key drivers of development The Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (Rsif), established under the Partnership for skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology (PASET), plays a central role in building a critical mass of highly skilled scientists, innovators, and professionals in Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology (ASET) fields.

Since its implementation by International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology(icipe), Rsif has steadily contributed to Africa’s ASET capacity by supporting talented PhD students through scholarships, mentorship, and global research partnerships. The program has recorded notable progress, including the expansion of African Host Universities (AHUs), enhanced collaboration with International Partner Institutions (IPIs), and a steadily growing number of PhD graduates.

Rsif has grown to support 302 PhD scholars across Africa, with 63 having successfully graduated. From the inaugural cohort of 15 scholars enrolled in 2018, over half have completed their studies, and graduates are steadily emerging from subsequent cohorts.

This growing alumni base presents an invaluable resource, not only to inspire current scholars, but to amplify Rsif’s long-term impact on Africa’s development agenda. Recognizing this, the Rsif Alumni Network (RAN) has been established to provide a lasting structure for engagement, collaboration, and contribution by alumni across Africa and beyond. RAN’s vision is to be a dynamic and holistic network of professionals who are a valuable resource to Rsif, Africa, and the international community. Through targeted initiatives in mentorship and career support, research collaboration, and program advocacy, RAN aims to drive tangible outcomes aligned with Africa’s development priorities and the goals of the Rsif program.

This inaugural Rsif Alumni Network workshop under the theme “Driving Collaborative Research and Innovation for Africa’s Developmental Impact” will formally bring together Rsif alumni and key stakeholders to strengthen the foundation and direction of this network.

Objectives

i) Redefine the structure, values, and strategic priorities of the Rsif Alumni Network through a collaborative process that aligns with its vision and mission.

ii) Identify and explore practical pathways for alumni to contribute to the ASET ecosystem through research, innovation, networking, policy engagement and entrepreneurship.

iii) Review and enhance (finalising) collaborative research proposals developed by alumni with the goal of strengthening their relevance, coherence, and competitiveness for funding aligned Africa’s development challenges.

iv) Propose sustainable frameworks for alumni engagement in mentorship, career development, and interdisciplinary research collaboration to support f scholars and institutional partnerships.

Expected Outcomes

i) A shared understanding and agreement on the Rsif Alumni Network’s structure, values, and strategic direction.

ii) A prioritized set of alumni-led initiatives that contribute to ASET goals in research, innovation, and policy influence.

iii) Refined and ready-to-submit collaborative research proposals addressing priority thematic areas in Africa’s development agenda and tailored to funding opportunities.

See agenda here.