The Guild

In 2017, the AU-EU summit paved the way for the recognition of science collaborations and the need for strengthening the research and innovation capacity of African universities as key priorities in the African-European partnership.

The African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) and The Guild emphasise the critical importance of strengthening African research universities in a wholistic way, calling to action the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU), national governments, public science bodies, and Universities and their communities themselves.

Over 200 scientists have voiced their support for the joint initiative of The Guild and the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) on strengthening the research capacities of African universities. 

22 November 2021 – virtual conference

The African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the EU’s vision for Global Gateways prioritising an AU-EU strategic partnership have both set ambitions to develop an African knowledge society through research and innovation. This is crucial to strengthen a prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development. We need a new approach to tackle the AU’s and EU’s common challenges, from climate change to health to digitalisation.

The Guild and ARUA have jointly made an urgent call for the EU budget supporting the Africa-EU Partnership to ring-fence at least €1bn per year for strengthening African research universities, working in partnership with European universities. The call further outlines concrete proposals for the measures that would bring about transformative change.

EU budget supporting the Africa-EU Partnership should ring-fence at least €1bn per year for strengthening African research universities, working in partnership with European universities.