ARUA Conference Concludes with Researchers and Academics Reaffirming Commitment to Africa’s Development

The University of Lagos successfully concluded the fourth Biennial International Conference of the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), marking the end of three days of extensive discussions, knowledge-sharing, and calls for collaborative action to address continental challenges.

The Policy Roundtable and Wrap-Up session, held on the evening of Friday, November 17, 2023, focused on the theme "Global Challenges and the Implications for Research at African Universities." Stakeholders emphasized the importance of unity of purpose, meaningful engagement with government institutions, and enhanced research collaboration among African universities.

On the panel of discussants was Professor Bola Oboh, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics and Research, University of Lagos, who expressed concern over Africa's meager one percent research contribution to the global research community. Prof. Oboh called for a renewed focus on impact-driven research, particularly in areas such as food security, economic growth, and sustainability. She urged African researchers to view Artificial Intelligence as a problem-solving tool, emphasizing its potential positive impact on addressing unemployment challenges.

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In his contributions, Professor Lucian Obinna-Chukwu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Management Services, applauded ARUA's objectives but called for a transition from rhetoric to concrete action.

The Policy Roundtable and Wrap-Up session, presided over by ARUA Secretary-General Professor Ernest Aryeetey, featured insights from Professor Imraan Valodia of the University of Witwatersrand. He identified Technology and Artificial Intelligence, Population growth, and Climate change as critical factors affecting Africa's future. Valodia stressed the need for researchers to mobilize indigenous resources, influence government policymakers, and engage foreign donors constructively.

Professor Robert Osei of the University of Ghana advocated increased funding of tertiary education institutions by African governments to reduce reliance on foreign support, which often influences research priorities.

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Professor Margaret Hutchinson of the University of Nairobi emphasized the role of higher education institutions in promoting research aligned with national and continental needs.

Expressing concerns over dwindling funding for tertiary education in many African countries, Professor Nelson Boniface of the University of Dar es Salaam called for increased indigenous funding to safeguard research originality.

In her closing goodwill message, Vice-Chancellor Professor Folasade Ogunsola commended participants and resource persons for their valuable contributions. She expressed confidence in ARUA's ability to fulfill its mandate and urged unity of purpose in implementing recommendations for advancing tertiary education in Africa.

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The session also featured the presentation of plaques to sponsors and supporters of the conference. The ARUA Conference, themed "Reimagining the Future of Higher Education in Africa," commenced on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at the University of Lagos.