The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), in collaboration with the West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (CORAF), will host the AGriDI Close-Out and Dissemination Workshop from 27–29 August 2025 at Sheraton Hotel, Dakar, Senegal.
The workshop marks a pivotal stage in the Accelerating Inclusive Green Growth through Agri-based Digital Innovation in West Africa (AGriDI) project, which was launched in 2020 and extended to 2026. Co-funded under the ACP Innovation Fund through the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) Research and Innovation (R&I) Programme with the financial support of the European Union (EU), the AGriDI project aims to strengthen digital innovations for agricultural transformation in West Africa. The AGriDI consortium led by icipe comprises Agropolis Fondation (AF) in France, Gearbox Pan African Network (GB) in Kenya, and Université d’Abomey-Calavi (UAC) in Benin.
Over the past four and a half years, AGriDI has supported 13 grantee projects across the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region, with a total investment of EUR 2.73 million. These projects focused on co-developing and adapting digital solutions, creating digital innovations for market linkages, and strengthening policies for digital innovation.
So far, the project led to the development of impactful digital technologies such as the AGriCef mobile app developed by the Université de Parakou in Northern Benin, which controls the Fall armyworm in maize while the Ki@ app provides market updates directly to local farmers via SMS and voice message. The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) in Southwestern Nigeria developed the SMARTSOIL app which provides hyper-local soil information to farmers using artificial intelligence.
Additionally, in Ghana, the Driving Market Access and Managing AG Value chains (DigiMakt) app led by Esoko Ltd profiles over 12,500 smallholder farmers in Bono East and Oti regions, providing climate-smart agronomic advice, market information, weather alerts, insurance, and credit scoring. The innovation won the agri-tech company of the year at the 2023 Ghana Agriculture and Agri-Business Awards for enhancing financial inclusion in the region. And the MarketMap app by SOSAI which offers reliable market information for farmers, processors, and service providers in the agricultural sector.
In a region where 66% of employment is in the agri-food sector—of which 68% are women—AGriDI’s plays an important role in improving market access, driving financial inclusion, and addressing climate change.
The project also contributes to the implementation of ECOWAS’ policies, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals on gender, food, energy, and innovation.
The close-out and dissemination workshop will bring together over 50 participants, including AGriDI consortium members, third-party project (TPP) grantees, policymakers, private sector representatives, and development partners. The workshop will:
Discuss digital technologies enabling data access for agri-based decision making.
Share knowledge and experiences on how data-driven decision making can enhance agri-SMEs.
Explore the policy landscape for data access in ECOWAS countries.
Foster collaboration and networking for the sustainability of project outputs.
Dr Jonas Mugabe, the Project Manager AGriDI pointed out that the workshop will showcase the achievements of the third-party projects which are aligned to the ”Technological advancements set to revolutionize Africa’s agri-food systems”.
“Innovations such as digital agriculture, biotechnology, and precision farming can enhance productivity, sustainability, and inclusivity,” Dr Mugabe stated adding that, “The widespread adoption of mobile phones, mobile money, and digital tools is accelerating access to information, financial services, and markets for farmers, thus driving agricultural growth and transformation of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) renewed in Kampala in January 2025 by African Heads of State.”
Expected outputs include a comprehensive report documenting project achievements, lessons learned, and best practices; strengthened networks among stakeholders; and actionable recommendations for future initiatives. The ultimate outcome will be a consensus on innovative approaches to enhance agri-based digital technologies, policies, and practices in the region.
On Wednesday this week, the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) welcomed a high-level delegation led by Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Education Hon Julius Migos Ogamba to its Duduville Campus in Nairobi.
This visit was not just a ceremonial stopover, but a powerful statement of Kenya’s commitment to harness science, research, and innovation as engines of development and societal transformation. The highlight of the visit was the scientific progress at icipe, and the next generation of scientists being nurtured through of Partnership for Skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology (PASET)- Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (Rsif) initiative.
For more than five decades, icipe has stood as a beacon of scientific excellence in Africa, addressing the most pressing challenges in Africa and globally like climate risk, biodiversity loss, poverty and hunger and unemployment through insect-based science solutions. As the Regional Coordination Unit (RCU) of PASET Rsif icipe has supported African Union’s as well as Kenya’s vision to build a knowledge-based economy by investing in human capital development, scientific research and innovation.
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Education Hon Julius Migos Ogamba signing the visitors book when he visited icipe. He is flanked by icipe‘s Director General Dr Abdou Tenkouano (Right), The Director, Human Resources & Protocol, Mrs Veronica Waiyaki (Centre back) and Dr Julius Ecuru, The RCU Manager (Left)
CS Ogamba lauded icipe’s longstanding impact noting that, “We appreciate the high impact research that takes place at icipe and the output it produces. As Kenya we are proud in hosting icipe as international organisation for the last 55 years since it was founded by one of our pioneer prof Thomas Odhiambo.”
He added that icipe’s impact has been felt far and wide, touching lives and shaping policies across Africa.
CS Ogamba reiterated government’s commitment to strengthening its mutually beneficial relationship with icipe the only international centre in the tropics that is dedicated to insect science solutions and development.
He stated, “It is befitting that the excellent work that icipe is doing has been given recognition and in particular I wish to congratulate icipe for competitively being selected as the RCU for PASET-Rsif. I’m also grateful to icipe for excellently managing the PASET-Rsif Programme and also for your exemplary performance in research as you have aptly indicated.”
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Education Hon Julius Migos Ogamba (gesturing) being taken through exhibition when he visited icipe‘s Duduville Campus on Wednesday
Highlighting the country’s leadership in the PASET, he recalled that “Kenya was among the first PASET countries to contribute the minimum of USD2 million to the PASET-Rsif in 2017 thereby setting an example of other countries to join PASET. Kenya also hosted the fourth PASET Forum in Nairobi in 2017 under the patronage of the then deputy president who is now the President of the Republic Kenya Dr William Samoei Ruto; and subsequently hosted the 6th PASET Forum in April 2024.
In response to high demand for scholarships, the Government of Kenya committed an additional USD 2 million in 2024 to further expand opportunities for PhD training. “Due to the high intake of the scholarship by Kenyans, the Government of Kenya committed an additional USD 2 million in 2024 to ensure continued support and improve the quality in higher education,” he stated.
The CS also emphasized that quality education and research is key to Kenya’s economic planning and development. “I acknowledge icipe’s tremendous contribution to our research capacity and scientific output in Kenya and within the region. Going forward is to ensure we link the outputs of research and human capital development to industry, policy and society. Policies should be informed by the 21st credible scientific evidence.”
“Industry and private sector should also appreciate the research outcomes and collaborations within universities and research institutions to ensure better skills and competitive workforce suitable for the 21st century demands. I am happy to note that the areas you support including energy and renewables, and other areas of artificial intelligence, the current /fourth industrial revolution we are in,” CS Ogamba pointed out adding that fostering academia industry partnerships benefit the society through relevant and demand driven skills and competencies.”
He concluded by reiterating the Government of Kenya’s commitment to support Rsif and icipe’s programmes.
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Education Hon Julius Migos Ogamba (Left) and icipe’s Director General Dr Abdou Tenkouano at the Duduville campus.
The Director General icipe, Dr Abdou Tenkouano on his part underscored the centre’s role in addressing Africa’s grand challenges. “We are at the forefront of addressing the most pressing challenges in Africa and globally like climate risk, biodiversity loss, poverty and hunger and unemployment through insect-based science solutions.”
He emphasized that icipe’s mission aligns with Kenya’s Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) agenda, “Our work complements the government of Kenya’s effort to position science, technology, and innovation at the heart of development agenda. Indeed, icipe embraces the Kenya’s aspiration to become a knowledge-based economy which depends greatly in investment of human capital, skills and scientific research as well as strategic partnership that links the output from these investments with industry and society.”
On the PASET-Rsif programme, Dr Tenkouano noted, “ A good example is PASET with its Rsif to which the government of Kenya is contributing $4million to training 41 PhD’s in the country and across Africa. icipe is privileged to be the regional coordination unit of PASET since 2018.”
Dr Tenkuoano highlighted that PASET Governing Council extended icipe’s mandate to manage Rsif for another 3 years beginning January 2026.
Acknowledging the government’s support, he said: “We are grateful for the trust that PASET and the government of Kenya have for icipe. We pledge our continued commitment to paset objectives of developing skills in advanced sciences, engineering, and technology for the social economic transformation of Africa.”
“Thank you and the Government of Kenya for your continued investment in PASET and icipe at large, which is one of the best example of pan-African science fund to which governments invest funds for doctoral training, research, and innovation in the continent. Following your leadership, several other African countries have contributed to Rsif including Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Ghana, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda and Senegal.
He also called up on more African governments to invest more resources into PASET and to scientific research development generally especially in these times of fast eroding overseas development assistance adding that icipe’s mode of operation as one that is based on young talents from all over Africa and beyond pursuing the MSc or PhD degrees predominantly at Kenyan Universities.
Dr Tenkouano also highlighted icipe’s unique contribution to science diplomacy: “As they get emersed in our research environment with a 96 per cent completion rate, they also get emersed in the rich diversity of cultures of Kenya and as they return to their countries for those who are not based in Kenya, they not only carry the degrees but also perhaps most importantly the hospitality of Kenya in their hearts and so they become Bonafide ambassadors of Kenya. This is why icipe prides itself in being part of the science development diplomacy of Kenya.”
A goup photo taken when Kenya’s Education Minister Hon Julius Migos Ogamba (Centre front row) visited icipe on Wednesday
During the meeting, PASET-Rsif scholar Joshua Cyprian William and alumni Dr Ivy Okello also had the opportunity to offer him first-hand insights into how strategic investments in higher education are cultivating the next generation of African researchers and innovators.
The visit closed on a forward-looking note with both the Cabinet Secretary and icipe Director General underscoring that science, research, and innovation must remain at the heart of Africa’s transformation. Their shared message was clear: investments in human capital and research are not optional, but essential, if the continent is to compete and thrive in the 21st century.
At the tranquil Duduville campus of the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) in Kenya’s capital Nairobi, innovative ideas filled the air as 20 young scientists drawn from 10 African countries immersed themselves in high-intensity Biobased Innovation and Entrepreneurship Bootcamp. The countries represented in the bootcamp were Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, Malawi, and Chad. The Bootcamp was organised by BioInnovate Africa in collaboration with the PASET-Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (Rsif) – regional initiatives implemented by icipe. The bootcamp closed with a pitching event on Thursday, August 7, that presented innovative solutions designed to tackle pressing societal issues and fostering a sustainable bioeconomy in Africa.
Ms Cynthia Orang’o, Rsif’s Research and Innovation Grants Officer, one of the facilitators, called on the participants to explore the business potential of their ideas. “An idea becomes powerful when it is not just imagined but shaped, refined and packaged so that others can invest in it,” she urged.
On the same note, Ms Shira Mukiibi, Business Development Manager at BioInnovate Africa, and co-lead of the Bootcamp, noted “The innovative ideas and products from each of you are like seeds, which with the right guidance and collaboration, can grow into ventures that attract investment and create impact for Africa’s socio-economic development.
Green technology
Among the participants were five Rsif scholars—emerging innovators who are bridging the gap between laboratory research and market-ready solutions. Through intensive workshops, mentorship sessions, and industry visits, they learned to refine their ideas, pitch effectively, and think beyond technical prototypes to create scalable, sustainable businesses.
For Dr Jonas Bayuo from Ghana, an Rsif alumnus of the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) in Tanzania, one piece of feedback became a turning point.
“One key piece of feedback that stood out during the biobased bootcamp was the emphasis on aligning biobased innovations with circular economy principles, not just green technology. During the bootcamp session, a mentor pointed out that while my activated carbon reactor effectively targets heavy metal removal from wastewater, its sustainability impact could be amplified by ensuring the feedstock for the carbon is truly renewable and locally sourced, such as agricultural or agro-industrial waste.” Dr Bayuo stated.
Dr Jonas Bayuo
He added that this insight pushed him to rethink about his sourcing strategy, not just focusing on technical performance, but on traceability and community integration. “For instance, I began exploring how I could partner with local farmers or agro-processors to obtain consistent, affordable biomass waste like maize cobs, stalks, and tassels,” Dr Bayuo stated.
Dr Bayuo’s now plans to co-create small wastewater treatment operators to better understand their constraints, like sludge disposal, flow rates, and maintenance costs. The boot camp helped him shift from a laboratory-centric innovation mindset to a systems-level, user-informed, and impact-driven approach.
Market analysis
For Dr Tsion Fode from Ethiopia, Rsif alumna of Nelson Mandela African Institute of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) who pursued PhD in Minerals Mining and Material Engineering, the most eye-opening insight gained at the bootcamp about transforming research into a viable product was learning how to frame her bio-based innovation in terms of investment potential.
Dr Tsion Fode
“I realized that successful commercialization requires not only strong scientific foundations but also a clear value proposition, market analysis, and a viable business model. Seeing how other innovators and spin-off companies translated their ideas into tangible products reinforced the importance of aligning research outcomes with real-world needs,” Dr Fode explained.
Rsif provided her with a strong research foundation, mentorship, and exposure to innovation ecosystems. “The programme has encouraged me to think beyond the laboratory by equipping me with entrepreneurial skills and connecting me to networks that can support commercialization. This has enabled me to envision my research not just as an academic output, but as a potential market-ready solution,” Dr Fode said.
She added that NM-AIST equipped her with the practical skills or mindset needed to pursue innovation and entrepreneurship since she benefited from direct exposure to innovation and incubation environments, including visits to spin-off companies and engagement with the university’s Innovation and Incubation Centre. “These experiences helped me understand the practical steps of product development, industry collaboration, and scaling up from prototype to market. They also fostered a mindset of problem-solving, adaptability, and continuous learning—key traits for any entrepreneur.”
New ideas
For Bhaahat Lawlley Zimba, an Rsif Scholar undertaking PhD in Minerals, Mining and Material Engineering at NM-AIST and lecturer at the Malawi University of Science and Technology, the turning point came during an industry visit.
“The Bee Health visit was one of the most impactful components of the bootcamp for me. It provided valuable insight into the processing of honey and beeswax into a range of commercial products. I was particularly inspired by the creams and lotions produced at Bee Health, as they closely align with my vision for packaging the Umoyo Wound Cream, which I am currently developing.”
Bhaahat Lawlley Zimba
“This visit also sparked new ideas—specifically, the potential to diversify and introduce a body lotion formulated from collagen extracted from Chambo tilapia fish skin. These insights have enabled me to refine my pitch presentation by placing greater emphasis on the value proposition and market potential of my product,” he stated.
Bhaahat’s innovation tackles a serious health challenge: Burn injuries remain a serious global health concern, with over 180,000 deaths recorded annually. In Malawi, more than 20% of pediatric burn patients succumb to their injuries each year. Those who recover often endure prolonged hospital stays and face complications such as hypertrophic scarring and functional impairment of the affected areas. That’s why his innovation, Umoyo Wound Cream, aims to significantly reduce hospitalization periods while accelerating the wound healing process and improving clinical outcomes.
He mentioned that Rsif has been instrumental in supporting his innovation journey and cultivated in him a mindset geared toward developing practical, high-impact solutions for society. Besides, the entrepreneurial training and business modules offered at NM-AIST empowered him to think beyond research—to envision a viable commercial pathway for his product and to confidently pursue opportunities for bringing it to market.
Mindset shift
For Mercy Mmari, an Rsif Scholar from Sokoine University of Agriculture the bootcamp was a catalyst for a deep shift in approach.
“The bootcamp has triggered a significant mindset shift for me, from solution-to-customer thinking to customer-to-solution thinking. It has challenged me to start with the end user when translating science into innovation. I have also learned how to communicate scientific knowledge in a way that resonates with non-scientific audiences, enabling them to understand, value, and buy into the solution. The visits at icipe, EAC and other institutions has broadened my network and triggered the need to participate in enabling environment for other scientists in innovation.”
Mercy Mmari pitching her idea
The sessions and institutional visits also broadened her network and inspired her to contribute to enabling environments for other scientists in innovation. Mercy credits Rsif with equipping scholars not just academically but with the practical tools needed to link science to real-world impact.
“These opportunities create the much-needed ‘why?’ pause during the long PhD journey, ensuring we remain focused on transformation,” she said.
Cross-border collaboration
For Dr Abdel-Razakh Hissein Hassan from Chad and an Rsif alumnus from Sokoine University of Agriculture the most valuable lesson came from the people in the room.
“Being part of a diverse cohort of African scientists has broadened my view on the importance of cross-border collaboration. It showed me how combining perspectives across countries can accelerate innovation tailored to Africa’s needs,” he said adding that he plans to use the entrepreneurial tools gained to turn his research into tangible solutions while mentoring others to adopt innovation-driven approaches.
Dr Abdel-Razakh Hissein Hassan
The bootcamp did more than sharpen technical ideas—it reinforced Rsif’s mission of building Africa’s scientific and entrepreneurial capacity. By connecting scholars with industry mentors, funding opportunities, and real-world business models, it is helping to turn research into products and services that can drive sustainable development.
Turning science into enterprise
Dr Julius Ecuru, Manager for the Regional Innovation Coordination Units at icipe, described the Bootcamp as a platform for turning science into enterprise. He added that the idea of this bootcamp is to bridge research and industry, and create prospects for businesses and jobs.
“These scientists are not just generating knowledge they’re building businesses and creating jobs. This is the transformation Africa needs,” Dr Ecuru underscored.
Dr Julius Ecuru, Manager for the Regional Innovation Coordination Units at icipe
“Scientists with innovative ideas came together and worked hard to make those ideas investable in this bootcamp,” said Dr Ecuru who is also the manager for Rsif and BioInnovate Africa. “We encourage scientists to look beyond public sector jobs and consider private sector pathways. Our goal is to link science with industry and society, enabling scientists to become job creators and transformative agents in society,” he said.
As the participants parted ways, their prototypes and pitches packed alongside fresh ambitions, one thing was clear: the seeds planted during these 10 days will grow far beyond icipe’s campus—into communities, industries, and policies not only shaping the continent’s future but also igniting the rise of Africa’s next leaders in building a vibrant, homegrown bioeconomy.
The pulse of innovation is much alive in northern Mozambique at the University of Rovuma (UniRovuma) in Nampula Province as witnessed recently, by a team from the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) who visited the institution as part of the Improvement for Skills Development in Mozambique (MozSkills) project monitoring and evaluation.
Through a 2021 agreement, the Government of Mozambique, with support from the World Bank, committed USD 6 million to the icipe-managed Partnership for skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology – Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (PASET-Rsif). The investment is fuelling 40 PhD scholarships and 14 homegrown research and innovation projects.
A group photo with the University of Rovuma (UniRovuma) Rector and some members of staff when icipe team visited.
Research solving real world problems
One standout is UniRovuma’s leap into computational mathematics laboratory — training lecturers and students in modern tools like Python, mathematical modeling, and applied statistics. This room buzzing with the click of keyboards and the language of Python code is bridging the gap between traditional math education and the digital demands of today’s STEM fields, equipping graduates to solve real-world problems in industry and public service. This laboratory is now buzzing with the click of keyboards and the language of Python code.
Computational mathematics laboratory at UniRovuma
An interview with Dr Elisa da Conceição José Maria, the project lead at UniRovuma revealed that the innitiative arose from the need to strengthen practical and digital skills among lecturers and students, which were still limited and hindered the university’s ability to effectively contribute to research and development in STEM areas.
“The reliance on exclusively theoretical methods without computational tools left students insufficiently prepared to face technical challenges. Mozambique and the region urgently need data-driven approaches to tackle issues such as climate change, food security, and public health—making this project essential,” Dr Elisa stated.
She pointed out that originally, the UniRovuma emerged from the division of the former Universidade Pedagógica—a national university mainly focused on teacher training. After its division into five regional institutions, UniRovuma began serving the northern region of Mozambique and expanded its scope beyond education to include technical fields and STEM courses. However, this restructuring was not accompanied by the redistribution of laboratory resources or the creation of new infrastructure. The introduction of new programmes required lecturers to be trained in technical and computational content. The lack of adequate resources and the need to adapt to the new institutional model motivated the launch of this project.
PASET-Rsif/MozSkills support
The leap into computational mathematics at the UnRovuma has been made possible through PASET-Rsif/MozSkills support. With Rsif funding, the university established a fully equipped computational mathematics laboratory, complete with 18 computers, creating a dedicated space where students and lecturers can explore programming, mathematical modeling, and applied statistics in practice. It also has a smartboard, internet access, and teaching materials. Besides, it supported the training of 15 lecturers and more than 503 students in Python programming and mathematical modeling. It also facilitated the development of applied projects that connect mathematical theory to real-world challenges, the drafting of scientific articles, and funding for their publication. Based on the skills acquired by lecturers and students, a practical initiative was launched with a focus on activities, research, and outreach in computational mathematics, leveraging all the human and material resources created through the laboratory’s implementation.
Dr Elisa da Conceição José Maria (C) who is the project lead and some of her colleagues.
Sustainability of the project
What sets Rsif’s support apart, according to Dr Elisa and her team members, is its flexibility and clear alignment with the institution’s strategic goals. Beyond funding, the programme is designed with sustainability in mind — ensuring that the skills, infrastructure, and research capacity being built today will continue to serve Mozambique’s development long after the project ends. This is unlike short-term interventions since Rsif funding enables long-term capacity building, including the training of local experts, support for gender inclusion, promotion of innovation in the national education system, and provision of essential materials for research. Moreover, it encourages scientific production through support for article publication.
The project is tackling long-standing gaps in mathematics education at UniRovuma. Dr Elisa states that until recently, programming had little presence in the curriculum, and many researchers relied heavily on commercial software such as SPSS, which limited flexibility and innovation. By introducing open-source tools and strengthening skills in mathematical modeling, the programme is equipping students and faculty with the versatility and analytical depth needed for modern STEM research and problem-solving. “It also addresses the disconnect between mathematics curricula and practical applications, especially in data analysis, geospatial computing, and predictive modeling. Key focuses include training lecturers in STEM methodologies, promoting real-world problem-solving, and preparing students for the job market,” she elaborates.
Translating theory into practice
Key technological solutions being developed include the integration of Python into the undergraduate curriculum, development of local training modules in computational modeling, and applied research projects using techniques such as time series analysis (ARIMA/SARIMA) and geospatial risk mapping. “One highlight is the mathematical modeling of environmental phenomena. These approaches help translate mathematical theory into tools for solving practical problems,” Dr Elisa says.
Through a series of intensive training programmes, the initiative has strengthened the skills of both students and lecturers, equipping them with practical expertise in Python, data science, and mathematical modeling. Participants have also gained training in scientific article writing — a skill that not only supports academic success but also enhances their ability to share research findings with the wider scientific community. Dr Elisa highlighted that it has also promoted the leadership of female instructors and encouraged interdisciplinary research.
“Over 500 students have been trained, many of whom are now engaged in applied research and pursuing advanced studies. They are also using the skills they’ve learned to prepare their final year theses,” she revealed.
Collaboration and partnerships
Collaboration lies at the heart of the project, bringing together national, regional, and international partners to amplify its impact. The University of Porto,in Portugal for instance, trained the first cohort of lecturers in Python, providing a strong foundation for the computational mathematics programme. Locally, partnerships with institutions such as the Nampula Municipal Council and other universities in Nampula ensure the work remains closely tied to community needs and supports practical, real-world applications of the skills being developed. These collaborations increase the relevance of research, provide mentorship, and support the implementation of applied studies in real contexts. For some scientific papers, we also collaborate with researchers from local universities.
The project is closely aligned with Mozambique’s national development priorities of improving education quality, promoting scientific research, and developing digital skills and the new African Union’s Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy (STISA) 2034 pillars by contributing to knowledge production, technological innovation, and solutions to socioeconomic challenges through STEM education and applied mathematics.
The advances in computational mathematics through this project have far-reaching benefits across multiple real-world sectors, including agriculture—where it supports forecasting of prices and seasonal patterns; health—by enabling analysis of factors affecting maternal and child well-being; environment—through geospatial modeling of erosion risks and climate data; and education, where it strengthens the STEM curriculum and prepares the next generation of educators with vital computational skills.
Beyond mathematics, this project provides evidence-based tools and data analysis to support decision-making in municipal planning, agricultural policy, public health interventions, and educational reform. By training local researchers, it ensures sustainability and fosters innovation tailored to community needs.
Significant milestones
Since its inception, the project has already marked significant milestones including:Training of 15 lecturers and over 503 students in Python and modeling, implementation of applied research projects, establishment of a computational mathematics laboratory and iInclusive training structure with attention to gender.
Looking ahead, the team plans to expand training opportunities to postgraduate students, publish research findings and develop a postgraduate curriculum in computational mathematics.
In five years, the project envisions becoming a leading national and regional hub for computational mathematics—recognized for its innovative STEM education, robust regional partnerships, and impactful contributions to public policies in agriculture, health, and environmental planning. Success will be measured not only by academic achievements and research publications but also by the tangible ways the programme empowers communities and drives sustainable development across Mozambique and beyond.
Through an agreement signed in 2021, the Government of Mozambique, through its World Bank-funded project on ‘Improvement for Skills Development in Mozambique (MozSkills)’, is investing USD 6 million in the icipe-managed, Partnership for skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology – Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (PASET-Rsif). Of the amount, USD 4.2 million is funding 40 Rsif PhD scholarships, while USD 1.8 million is dedicated to supporting 14 research and innovation projects implemented by Mozambican higher education institutions. During a recent visit, an icipe team witnessed firsthand the progress being made through MozSkills projects.
One stand-out example is the Creation of Sustainable Student Companies as an alternative to self-employment at Instituto Superior Politecnico de Manica (ISPM), which aims to strengthen the innovation ecosystem within Mozambican higher education—ranging from a thriving vegetable farming initiative and a promising bean production project to innovative quail farming and a fast-growing poultry enterprise.
To gain deeper insight into this project and its potential, we spoke with key stakeholders involved in the project. In this second series of interviews, the project lead Dr Arnaldo Uetela shares his perspective on the initiative’s goals, challenges, and the transformative role it is beginning to play.
Q: Can you describe how this initiative is equipping students with practical skills and support to create sustainable companies, particularly in the agribusiness value chain?
A: Through the MozSkills project, students and graduates received training in entrepreneurship, business management, financial management, and business simulation. They were subsequently guided through registering their companies, taking the first steps toward launching and formalizing their businesses.
Q: What specific incubation services or mentorship models are being used at ISPM to ensure that these student companies evolve into viable and lasting MSMEs?
A: The incubation services offered by the ISPM incubator are to provide infrastructure -office equipped with computers and internet, production spaces and greenhouses. There is also technical assistance from several specialists that we have in the institution, and we also invite individuals with consolidated experience in specific business fields to mentor the students.
A former ISPM student at her poultry farm.
Q: How is the project contributing to youth employment and entrepreneurship, and what success stories or early impacts can you share?
A: We are gradually seeing our incubated graduates earn a comfortable living from the businesses they established through this project. Some have even begun employing other young people in their ventures. If you visit these projects, you will find one or two youths employed. Many young people do not necessarily land on the job market after completing their university education and this initiative encourages the young people to embark on entrepreneurship.
Although it’s still too early to say these businesses are highly successful, the poultry rearing project is on the right track in terms of promoting employability and entrepreneurship.
A thriving onion farm at ISPM
Q: What challenges have you encountered in stimulating the emergence of MSMEs through this approach, and how are you addressing them?
A: The challenges encountered in this MSME creation process include the withdrawal of some incubated companies during the process, excessive bureaucracy in registering incubated companies by regulatory agencies, and delays in funding disbursements.
Q: How has the support from Rsif enhanced the implementation and impact of this project, and what value has it brought to the students and wider ecosystem?
A: Rsif’s support was very instrumental in all aspects; from the initial training sessions to setting up the project management team to equipping the facilities for incubators and providing funds for business creation.
The Laboratory of Digital Models in Structures and Construction in Barcelona, Spain, welcomed Onelia Caribo, a PhD student from the University of Rwanda at ACEIoT, a scholar under the Partnership for Skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology (PASET)-Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (Rsif) programme.
Rsif is the flagship initiative of the PASET, an Africa-led effort supported by the World Bank. It offers a historic opportunity to train a new generation of PhD students in applied sciences, engineering, and technology at top African Host Universities (AHUs) in collaboration with international partner institutions. Beyond academic training, Rsif promotes research capacity by building partnerships between universities and companies to address local challenges.
During her stay this summer, Onelia Caribo explored the potential of digital twins for school laboratories in Mozambique and Rwanda. The project proposes cost-effective, open-source, a multi-lab perspective (biology, physics, chemistry), and multi-platform experiments, using sensors, computer vision, and mobile devices, within an open and creative framework. She also enriched her experience by participating in academic activities held at the Laboratory during her stay.
Together with Prof Rolando Chacón, they designed several experiments, explored their learning objectives, discussed how digital twins can enhance the learning process, and assessed their scalability. This radical openness approach showcases how digital twins can bridge the physical and digital worlds, enriching with accessible technologies, educational science practices in African high schools.
As the sun rose over the misty hills of Chimoio in central Mozambique, our delegation from The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) felt a sense of eager anticipation. We were on a mission to witness firsthand the progress of the PASET-Rsif/MozSkills-supported IETUPUNGUE Project at Universidade Púnguè (UniPúnguè)—and what we found was truly inspiring.
From the moment we arrived, it was clear that something powerful is unfolding here. Professor Lubacha Zilhão, the IETUPUNGUE Project Coordinator, walked us through the initiative’s milestones—each one a step toward transforming how innovation, technology transfer, and intellectual property are nurtured in Mozambican universities.
Equally memorable was the warm welcome from UniPúnguè’s leadership. The Rector, Prof Emília Afonso Nhalevilo expressed deep appreciation for the collaboration with icipe under the PASET-Rsif/MozSkills project, emphasizing the importance of such partnerships in strengthening the university’s capacity and regional influence. Her message was clear: continued collaboration is not just welcome—it’s essential for sustaining momentum.
Unipungue Rector Prof Emília Afonso Nhalevilo receiving memorabilia from Ms Cynthia Orang’o Rsif Research and Innovation Grant Officer.
Another striking moment for me was visiting the university’s new Innovation Incubator Unit. Still fresh with possibility, the space is more than a building—it’s a commitment to empowering students, faculty, and communities to create real-world solutions. You could feel the energy of potential in the air.
The newly established UniPúnguè Innovation Incubator Unit. Photo/ Janet Otieno
This visit wasn’t just an evaluation—it was a chance to see how far vision and collaboration can go. Through Rsif and MozSkills, UniPúnguè isn’t just growing—it’s becoming a beacon of innovation for the region.
We also had the chance to speak directly with Prof Zilhão about the project’s journey, challenges, and what lies ahead and here is what she had to say;
Q: What motivated the launch of this project, and why is it important for Mozambique and the region?
A: The launch of this project was driven by the need to strengthen the innovation capacity of the UniPúnguè university community (faculty, researchers, administrative staff, and students) to increase innovations and enable patenting. Many innovative projects were forgotten due to a lack of awareness about innovation and technology transfer within our university. This project is important for the country because, through innovation, Mozambique can stand out globally and become more competitive.
Q: How is this project contributing to the development of policies at the University? A: The project has greatly benefited the university by enabling the development of two key policies to promote innovation: the Innovation and Technology Transfer Policy and the Intellectual Property Protection Policy.
The icipe delegation flanked by IETUPUNGUE team visiting one of the projects at the institution’s agricultural field.
Q: How does the project align with Mozambique’s development goals, and how will it benefit the community or public policymakers?
A: Mozambique’s National Development Strategy (ENDE) 2025-2044 highlights technological innovation as a key pillar for economic growth and development. The same document notes that reliance on sectors like agriculture and extractive industries has limited economic diversification, making the country vulnerable to external shocks, with limited economic growth, innovation, and competitiveness. This weakness in innovation underscores the need for projects like this to boost innovation in universities and communities.
Additionally, innovation and entrepreneurship are priorities in Mozambique’s current National Education System. For instance, the Secondary Education Curriculum Plan (2022) states that by the end of the first cycle of secondary education, students should be entrepreneurial, creative, critical, and self-confident in performing tasks or solving problems, both in and out of school—skills that align with the ability to innovate. In the medium term, UniPúnguè can train schools to strengthen these competencies.
IETUPUNGUE team and icipe’s team holding a discussion about the progress of the project. icipe’s delegation was led by Dr Michael M. Kidoido, Senior Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Specialist (second right)
Q: What milestones have been achieved so far, and where do you see this project in the coming years?
A: We have developed two policies: the Innovation and Technology Transfer Policy and the Intellectual Property Protection Policy.
We have trained faculty, researchers, administrative staff, and students on innovation and technology transfer.
We are currently forming partnerships with institutions experienced in innovation, technology transfer, and intellectual property protection, such as the Pedro Nunes Institute at the University of Coimbra and the European Patent Office (EPO).
We recently established a business incubator to drive innovation at the university.
We are preparing for the first University Innovation Fair on September 23, which will include not only university students but also participants from other universities, schools, companies, and individuals.
We hope that, through the partnerships we are building, the technology transfer office will become a national reference.
Q: What makes the support from Rsif valuable for your institution? A: The support from Rsif is valuable because:
It has awakened the university to the need to promote innovation.
It has supported the promotion and strengthening of research and innovation capacity, recognition of scientific and technological output, and the development of institutional policies and strategies for technology transfer and intellectual property protection.
It has increased the need to transfer knowledge generated at the university for the benefit of communities.
It has facilitated the creation of national and international partnerships related to technology transfer and intellectual property protection.
Kenya’s drive towards nurturing innovation and building a robust knowledge-based economy took centre stage at the high-level policy dialogue on doctoral training and skills development, a landmark event organized by International Centre for Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), the Regional Coordination Unit of the PASET Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (Rsif) and in collaboration with the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTs) at the Great Rift Valley Lodge in Naivasha.
The event brought together about 50 stakeholders drawn from relevant ministries, academia, industry, development partners to foster meaningful discussions on aligning national priorities and emerging trends, best practices and shape strategies that will enhance doctoral training in Kenya and beyond.
This policy dialogue was organized on the backdrop of a multi-country study on doctoral and post-doctoral training and their contributions to national economies in Kenya, Rwanda, and Ethiopia which was conducted by the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) on behalf of PASET Rsif and funded by the Carnegie Corporation of New York through a grant to icipe. It is drawing from a rich evidence base on the study and anchored on national priorities like Vision 2030 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
Kenya’s PhD challenge
Though Kenya’s higher education sector has expanded with the number of licensed universities reaching 80 and university enrollment soaring to over 600,000 students by 2025, only 1.2 per cent these students are enrolled in PhD programmes – a clear indicator of the structural imbalance in the talent pipeline.
Dr Everlyn Nguku, Head of Capacity Building and Institutional Development at icipe giving her opening remarks. Photo/Sakina Mapenzi
“This dialogue is more than a policy discussion—it is a commitment,” Dr Everlyn Nguku, Head of Capacity Building and Institutional Development at icipe, pointed out in her opening address while urging for a commitment to building the intellectual infrastructure that will power Kenya’s next chapter. Dr Nguku stated, “By advancing high-quality doctoral education and fostering African-led research, Rsif plays a key role in promoting inclusive development, scientific excellence, and long-term capacity building across the continent.” She added that, “icipe’s work addresses pressing global challenges by generating cutting-edge, insect-based solutions.”
“icipe is widely recognized as a Centre of Excellence and through its integrated platforms and partnerships, it continues to shape evidence-based policies, drive bioeconomy development, and empower the next generation of African scientific leaders,” she mentioned.
On his part, Dr David Muthaka, Deputy Commission Secretary at the Commission for University Education (CUE), underscored a growing disconnect: “Despite increasing university enrollment, the economy is yet to feel the transformative impact of advanced research. Only 43 per cent of academic staff in our universities hold PhDs, and just 15 per cent of graduates have practical, work-based experience.”
His remarks outlined the broader policy dilemma: Kenya aspires to lead Africa in innovation yet remains constrained by low research and development investment—currently at 0.8 per cent of GDP, below the African Union target of 1.5 per cent and far from innovation powerhouses like South Korea at 4.5 per cent.
Dr Agnes Lutomiah, the Head of Programme, Science Technology and Innovation Knowledge in Society at African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTSNET), also touched on pathways to strengthen PhD training and postgraduate impact. Her presentation pointed out the importance of enabling environments, collaboration, and policies that support impactful research and also curb PhD dropout rate.
“50 per cent students drop out of the PhD many of the retake longer to complete the PhD programmes. Contributing factors included: Funding challenges, mental health issues, family, work commitment, and supervisor frustrations,” Dr Lutomiah said.
Roadmap for Doctoral Reform
The dialogue raised the following key issues:
Research and Development investment gap which is currently at 0.8per cent of the GDP, still behind AU target of 1.5 per cent.
The research objective in universities is neglected.
Poor alignment of policy, research and innovation.
Limited research capacity – only 43 per cent of university staff hold PhDs.
Skills and market need mismatch – with over 40 per cent employers citing inadequate skills as a barrier.
Pipeline challenges when it comes to career progression options.
Structural challenges when it comes to research infrastructure, industry alignment and IP structures.
There are glaring gender disparities – more enrolment of males than females (34 per cent only) in our universities.
A recurring theme was the need to shift doctoral training from academic exercises to engines of applied problem-solving.
Panel Discussion | Kenya High-Level Policy Dialogue on Higher Education & Skills Development. Photo/Sakina Mapenzi
There was also a panel discussion which explored strengthening institutional and national policy synergies to maximize the development impact of doctoral training which was moderated by Prof George Owuor, Director of Research and Extension at Egerton University.
The panelists were the leading voices in academia and policy including; Prof Tom Ogada, Director, ACTS; Ms Charity Musembi, National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation; Prof Benard Muthiani Kivunge, Registrar Academics, Kenyatta University; Prof Eunice Kamara, Moi University and Dr Mwende Mbilo, Rsif Alumna and Lecturer, Pwani University. The panelists discussed actionable ways to align national strategies and institutional frameworks to enhance the quality and relevance of doctoral education and research. They also stated that NACOSTI needs to ensure quality assurance and research ethics adherence in ensuring the quality of doctoral education to compare with global universities.
Rsif through icipe has already made significant contributions, so far it has offered 302 PhD scholarships, 64 research grants (of these 23 are research awards grants to faculty at Rsif African Host Universities (AHUs) faculties and 23 Junior Investigator Research Award (JIRA), 10 institutional Innovation Capacity Strengthening grants awarded to support their innovation environment and 8 Cooperability Innovation grants awards to faculty to support them to commercialize their research awarded to Rsif alumni), and institutional capacity building, offering a blueprint for strengthening science, technology, and innovation across Africa.
Rsif focuses on transformative technologies with far-reaching societal impacts in five priority thematic areas namely, ICT including big data and artificial intelligence, Food security and agri-business, Minerals, mining and materials engineering, Energy including renewables and Climate change. Rsif is funded by 9 African governments – Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, and the World Bank, the Government of Korea, and other development partners.
A call for collaborative action
“We must move from policy dialogue to implementation,” urged Dr Nguku in her closing remarks. “The partnerships forged in this room today must become the engines of change tomorrow.” A sentiment echoed by all the participants with a call for strategic partnerships between universities, the private sector, and global institutions, greater inclusion of young researchers and early-career scientists in national development planning, expanded investment in digital infrastructure, innovation hubs, and STEM scholarships.
The policy dialogue workshop collectively recommended a multifaceted approach to strengthen the research and innovation ecosystem, emphasizing the need to align research impact with policy and industry through robust industry-university partnerships and incentives for applied research. Strategic investment in research and development, the creation of funding portals, mentorship, and ensuring fair competition were highlighted as critical to increasing research funding. The establishment of innovation hubs and mandating industry participation were seen as vital for practical knowledge transfer, while faculty development and targeted infrastructure and technology investments were underscored as foundational supports. Promoting gender equity through incentives, flexible schedules, and female mentorship programmes, alongside regular evaluation of supervisory performance, were identified as essential for inclusive and effective research environments.
Dr Salome Wawire from Science for Africa Foundation reiterated the need for improvement on quality assurance to set standards while outlining the way forward.
“Additional recommendations included structured support for doctoral students’ career transitions, moving beyond the “publish or perish” culture by fostering commercialization studies, technology transfer mechanisms, and robust IP policies,” stated Dr Wawire.
The event also called for national research councils and funds to focus on research uptake, the implementation of quality assurance measures for university scholarship—including research integrity offices and standardized requirements for doctoral programmes and internships—comprehensive mental health support within programmes, integration of policies for coherence, and improved data availability to inform national and university policy and management.
What Lies Ahead
The Policy Dialogue concluded with a strong consensus: Kenya must treat knowledge as a strategic asset, not just for education, but as a cornerstone of national competitiveness. The institutions should be intentional about attracting and retaining global talent.
To achieve this; the country must scale up doctoral training to produce the next generation of scientists, educators, and policy leaders, elevate university research output to levels that can drive global relevance and impact plus develop a robust, well-funded postdoctoral ecosystem to ensure that talent is retained and nurtured within the country.
As Dr Muthaka aptly put it, “Transforming higher education is no longer optional — it is a national imperative.”
Shared commitment to the future
In a country where 75 per cent of the population is under 35, the stakes are high—but so is the potential. As the dialogue ends and implementation begins, the message is clear: Kenya’s knowledge economy starts now.
Kenya is steadily moving in its journey toward becoming a globally competitive and industralised country as envisioned in the nation’s Vision 2030. At the core of this transformation journey is the strengthening of higher education and skills development systems, crucial for nurturing innovation and building a robust knowledge-based economy. The upcoming high-level policy dialogue, organized by the Partnership for skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology (PASET) Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (Rsif) in partnership with the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), will bring together top minds to chart the future of doctoral and post-doctoral training in Kenya. Rsif is Africa’s flagship programme for building doctoral training, research, and innovation capacity in applied sciences, engineering, and technology, managed by the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) on behalf of PASET.
This event, scheduled to take place in Naivasha, Kenya, will convene over 50 key stakeholders from government ministries, academia, industry, and development partners. The dialogue builds on the findings of a recent multi-country study spanning Kenya, Rwanda, and Ethiopia, which explored the impact of doctoral training on national economies. Participants will deliberate on strategic policy approaches, share best practices, and generate actionable recommendations to align higher education with Kenya’s economic and development priorities.
Rsif through icipe has already made significant contributions, so far it has offered 302 PhD scholarships, 64 research grants (of these 23 are research awards grants to faculty at Rsif African Host Universities (AHUs) faculties and 23 Junior Investigator Research Award (JIRA), 10 institutional Innovation Capacity Strengthening grants awarded to support their innovation environment and 8 Cooperability Innovation grants awards to faculty to support them to commercialize their research awarded to Rsif alumni), and institutional capacity building, offering a blueprint for strengthening science, technology, and innovation across Africa.
Rsif focuses on transformative technologies with far-reaching societal impacts in five priority thematic areas namely, ICT including big data and artificial intelligence, Food security and agri-business, Minerals, mining and materials engineering, Energy including renewables and Climate change. Rsif is funded by 9 African governments – Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, and the World Bank, the Government of Korea, and other development partners.
Speaking ahead of the high-level meeting, Dr Everlyne Nguku, The Head of Capacity Building at icipe said that “We recognize that in any knowledge driven economy, a country’s strength lies in the minds its nurtures. For Kenya and Africa at large, investing in doctoral education is beyond a good policy priority, it is a strategic foundation upon which to build its socio-economic transformation and secure its future.”
The policy dialogue aims to foster a new era of partnership, ensuring that doctoral education and research are not only relevant and high-quality but also directly contribute to Kenya’s socio-economic transformation.
By strengthening partnerships between academia, government, and industry, the event promises to advance the national strategic plan of strengthening higher education and skills development and inspire similar efforts across the continent—paving the way for the Africa We Want.
Maimuna*, a promising postgraduate student, is hesitating to report an uncomfortable encounter with a faculty member. She tried discussing with her roommate who has advised her that reporting the issue will only make things worse for her because no action will be taken against her tormentor. Across institutions in Nigeria and beyond, many students and staff face similar dilemmas—uncertain if their voices will be heard, or if their safety will be protected. It’s stories like Maimuna’s that underscore why safeguarding in academic environments is so crucial.
Every student, lecturer, and staff member should feel safe in the university. This means all invisible barriers need to be broken so that every voice can be heard without fear. Achieving this vision requires more than just rules on paper; it demands a living culture of protection and respect and this is where safeguarding comes in.
The Director Center of Excellence for Dryland Agriculture (CDA), Bayero University, Kano, Professor Jibrin Mohammed Jibrin welcomes participants to the workshop.
Safeguarding in academic environments is about weaving together systems, policies, and everyday practices that shield everyone in the university community from harm—whether it’s sexual harassment, exploitation, or abuse. But the most effective safeguards don’t stop there: they are inclusive by design, ensuring these protections reach everyone, regardless of gender, disability, or background, leaving no one behind.
This approach is not only about compliance with institutional rules but about fostering a campus where every individual feels empowered and respected to pursue their ambitions. It also involves fostering an equitable institution culture where all can feel safe.
This commitment to inclusive safeguarding was at the heart of a recent refresher workshop held by the Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (Rsif) in collaboration with Bayero University Kano (BUK), Nigeria. The hybrid event, hosted at BUK’s Centre for Dryland Agriculture (CDA), brought together 50 participants (28 male and 22 female)—including Rsif scholars, faculty, administrative staff, student leaders, and gender experts—from BUK and neighbouring institutions such as Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Northwest University Kano, Khalifa Isyaku Rabiu University, Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria, and AZMAN University.
Prof Amina Mustapha shares a point during the workshop.
According to Prof Amina Mustapha, BUK Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Development who participated in the workshop, many forms of sexual harassment in academia—ranging from quid pro quo and hostile environments to digital and peer-to-peer harassment—have lasting impacts on individuals and institutional integrity. It is therefore important that this issue is urgently addressed because it constitutes serious violations of human rights and dignity.
Mr Bonface Nyaga addressing the participants of the workshop.
Mr Bonface Nyagah, Rsif Capacity Building and Safeguarding Officer, opines that it is of importance that all stakeholders continually remind themselves of the existing Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (SEAH) and Gender Based Violence (GBV) policies in the institutions. This can be done by utilizing refresher workshops, plugging SEA/SH and GBV awareness sessions in institutional and programmatic orientation for staff and project staff, including suppliers. Further, necessary information brochures can be provided.
“There is a need to have the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) in all institutions that provide avenues for reporting and referral pathways for the survivors. This ensures that the survivors can access not only justice but much required medical, legal and psychosocial support,” he stated.
Dr Safiya Nuhu speaks during the workshop.
Dr Safiya Ahmad Nuhu, Director of BUK’s Centre for Gender Studies, detailed the university’s multi-layered response to sexual harassment. This includes tiered reporting structures, clear penalties, referral mechanisms, and the Confidential Corner—a safe space for confidential counselling.
“Prevention-first policies, such as gender and dress code guidelines, are foundational in a safeguarding environment”, Dr Safiya said.
Disability inclusion advocate Mr Oyeniye Kudus Olanrewaju believes that the unique vulnerabilities faced by persons with disabilities should be part of safeguarding policies that are intentionally disability-inclusive and should conform to Nigeria’s Disability Act and international conventions.
A panel discussion during the workshop.
The interactive panel discussion, featuring voices from across the university—including Rsif scholar Desta Mulu stated that SEAH (reporting mechanisms must be accessible and user-friendly to all stakeholders. Prof Aisha Ismail who served as the pioneer director of BUK Centre for Gender Studies stressed the importance of building trust in institutional policies to encourage timely reporting and discussed cultural factors influencing perceptions and responses to sexual harassment. On his part, the Director of the Centre for Economics, Social and Population Research (CESPOR) at BUK, Prof Ismail Muhammad Zango pointed out that institutional leaders have a critical role in raising awareness of safeguarding protocols and engaging stakeholders through continuous sensitisation.
Ms Haj Binta Lawan Saji from Servicom non-academic staff also expressed that safeguarding training should be conducted regularly and integrated into orientation programmes for new staff, students, and affiliates while Prof Ali Tijjani of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) opined that institutions must understand and respect how cultural contexts influence perceptions and reporting of SEAH and safeguarding issues.
Some of the participants of the workshop
The workshop highlighted several crucial lessons for enhancing safeguards within university settings. It emphasized the importance of adopting survivor-centered approaches to ensure that the needs and voices of survivors are prioritized. Additionally, it underscored the necessity of developing policies that are both inclusive—addressing the diverse needs of the university community—and actionable, enabling effective implementation. Finally, the workshop advocated for moving beyond mere compliance with regulations toward fostering genuine cultural transformation, creating safer and more supportive academic environments, and the value of moving beyond compliance toward genuine cultural transformation.
This workshop should be a wake-up call to all institutions on the need for annual refresher trainings, development of safeguarding toolkits, institutional disability audits, and the expansion of confidential support spaces—affirming that inclusive safeguards are essential for safe, accountable, and thriving academic environments. *Name has been changed.
