RSIF PASET | Mozskills Archives - The PASET Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund

Mozambique’s STEM Revolution: Unlocking Potential through Computational Mathematics at UniRovuma

Posted on August 14, 2025August 23, 2025 by Janet Otieno

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.

Mathematics laboratory at Unirovuma — 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.

Student Startups Take Root in ISPM with MozSkills support

Posted on August 4, 2025August 4, 2025 by Janet Otieno

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 student at ISPM at her poultry farm. — 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.

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.

Driving Innovation in Mozambique: Inside the IETUPUNGUE Project at UniPúnguè

Posted on July 23, 2025July 23, 2025 by Janet Otieno

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 Professor Emília Nhalevilo receiving memorabilia from Ms Cynthia Orango Rsif Research and Innovation Grant Officer — 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 — 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 — 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.

Mozambique universities commit to improving their intellectual property management practices

Posted on May 7, 2025 by Janet Otieno

Scientists and experts from six Mozambique universities and research organisations came together in a three-day workshop on 22-24 April in Maputo to develop action plans for intellectual property (IP) management in Mozambican higher education institutions. The workshop brought together 32 participants including 12 women from universities and research institutes across the country, including a team from the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), which manages the PASET Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (Rsif).

An effective IP management is a critical part of an innovation system. IP are the creations of the mind, which are protected through patents, copyrights, and trademarks. Universities and research institutes can license their IP to private companies, which put them to industrial or commercial use. In this way, universities contribute to growth and development, when the out put of their research is put to use in the production of goods and services.

In her opening remarks, Dr Sheila Canda, Director of Mozambique’s Intellectual Property Institute stressed the importance of IP protection for national development. “The key role of the institute in supporting researchers is to protect novel ideas from their research work. Researchers need to embrace a culture of protecting their intellectual assets which will ultimately increase the number of protection rights in the form of patents, trademarks etc from higher education institution.”

Dr Fernando dos Santos, an IP expert who facilitated the workshop said, “There are several strategies that institutions can adopt to promote innovation and technology transfer within higher education and research centres across the country. However, for these strategies to be effective, it is critical to strengthen the linkages between innovation, technology transfer, and intellectual property management. This integration is key to fostering a strong culture of entrepreneurship among students and faculty in Mozambican institutions.”

Ms Cynthia Orangó, the Research and Innovation grants officer of Rsif underscored the role of universities in driving economic transformation through innovation. She said, “There is a need to co-create actionable, context-specific plans that will strengthen research translation, IP protection, and entrepreneurship in higher education institutions across Mozambique.”

Key sessions featured insights from Prof Manuel Rebelo who talked about Mozambique’s innovation policy landscape. Other presentations were on IP registration processes, and experiences from universities and research centres, including Eduardo Mondlane University (UEM), among others. Panel discussions highlighted lessons in developing effective IP policies to foster university-industry linkages.

By the end of the workshop, all participating institutions had drafted tailored action plans to improve their innovation ecosystems, marking a critical step toward advancing research commercialization by Mozambique’s universities and research organisations.

Egas Armando, Rsif Scholar and faculty member at Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, shares insights on how Business Incubation Centres and Technology Transfer Offices are helping universities turn ideas into real-world impact at the workshop.

The workshop was organised with the theme, “strengthening university innovation ecosystem and support for intellectual property management practices”, and specifically targeted Mozambique universities and research organisations that are benefiting from Rsif/ MozSkills project’s Institutional Innovation Capacity Building Program (ICBP).

Rsif s a flagship initiative of the Partnership for Skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology (PASET). It is implemented by icipe as the Regional Coordination Unit (RCU) since August 2018. Rsif’s development objective is to strengthen the institutional capacity for quality doctoral training, research, and innovation in transformative technologies in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Mozambique is a member of the PASET. It contributes to the Rsif through its Improvement for Skills Development (MozSkills) project. Through this contribution, Mozambique is supporting 40 PhD scholars (32 Mozambican) and 14 research and innovation projects across eight Mozambican higher education institutions and one research centre are being supported.