At the SRI 2024 Africa Satellite event, Professor Maano Ramutsindela highlighted the need for visionary leadership and regional collaboration to address Africa’s challenges in climate, food security, and water management.
Future Africa’s FACE One Health programme, led by Dr Tedson Nkoana, introduced a Robotics and Coding course at Bokamoso High School, Hammanskraal. Targeting Grade 8 learners, the initiative equips students with essential skills to participate in STEM fields and solve Africa's challenges in the future.
Rabies is a deadly but preventable disease that threatens both humans and animals. As part of Rabies Month, commemorated every September, the Future Africa Research Chair: People, Health, and Places (One Health) highlights the importance of rabies prevention through the One Health approach. This commitment is exemplified by their dog vaccination campaign in Ga Mampa, promoting healthier communitie...
On 28 August 2024, Future Africa hosted the third installment of its Transdisciplinary (TD) Dialogue series, titled The Transformative Impact of Transdisciplinary Research. This engaging discussion featured Professor Matthias Kaiser from the University of Bergen in conversation with Dr Neeraj Mistry, Future Africa's Deputy Director.
Future Africa (FA) has been awarded two Collaborative PhD Programmes by the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA). These programmes, funded by the Mastercard Foundation, are set to strengthen research capacity in Sustainable Food Systems and the Politics of Sustainable Development across Africa.
In celebration of South Africa’s Women’s Month, Dr Claire Chagwiza-Marufu, Senior Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Future Africa, University of Pretoria, shares her sources of inspiration and offers advice for aspiring women leaders.
Dr Clarietta Chagwiza, UP Future Africa's senior postdoc fellow, writes about the power of science in tackling inequalities in developing economies. By investing in education & tech, we can drive inclusive growth and achieve the UN SDGs.
On 11 July 2024, Future Africa at UP hosted a dialogue featuring Professor Roderick Lawrence from the University of Geneva and Professor Coleen Vogel from the University of Witwatersrand. The discussion focused on the important role of transdisciplinary approaches in addressing complex global challenges, emphasising the integration of diverse knowledge systems and broader collaborations beyond tra...
On Thursday, 24 July 2024, the Future Africa team, led by Interim Director Professor Wanda Markotter and Sustainable Food Systems Research Chair Professor Frans Swanepoel, had the pleasure of hosting a cohort of graduate students from New York University (NYU).
Future Africa is making strides to tackle Africa’s pressing challenges through its partnership with the STI Coalition for Africa. This collaboration aims to harness Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) to accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2063. The Coalition will benefit from Future Africa’s engagement by leveraging on its extensive pan-A...
Future Africa, in collaboration with the Transdisciplinary Training Collaboratory: Building Common Ground, recently hosted a two-day Transdisciplinary (TD) Train-the-Trainer workshop at the University of Pretoria's Future Africa Campus to equip participants with essential skills to effectively teach and apply Transdisciplinarity (TD), in line with the university's commitment to advancing TD in edu...
The first five years have passed in the proverbial blink of an eye for the University of Pretoria's Future Africa, with stakeholders agreeing that the launch of UP’s collaborative research platform has helped facilitate dialogue across disciplines and bridge gaps between academics and ordinary citizens.
Future Africa is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Wanda Markotter as the Interim Director, effective from 1 July 2024.
The African Research Universities Alliance Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Food Systems (ARUA-SFS), hosted at Future Africa (University of Pretoria), in collaboration with the Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN), proudly presents the Climate, Land, Agriculture, and Biodiversity (CLAB)-Africa Webinar Series.
Irene Nyakagere Thomas (34), a postdoctoral fellow at Future Africa, chats about the significance of Youth Month and how youth can improve their ability to make an impact on society.
Future Africa at the University of Pretoria celebrated its five year anniversary on 24 May 2024, highlighting its role as a pan-African research platform with Africa at its core. Highlighting contributions from global and local academics, the event was also a joint celebration to pay tribute and honour Professor Ernest Aryeetey and his work with the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA).
Food, particularly in the African context, is often associated with hunger and malnutrition. Encouragingly, a multidisciplinary network that involves researchers and non-academic stakeholders intends to find ways to make better food available to more people.
To avoid future pandemics, we have to recognise that the well-being of humans, domestic and wild animals, plants and the environment are closely linked and interdependent. A One Health approach mobilises all parties to work towards sustainable development and coexistence.
The purpose of this Director’s Reflection is to present, in overview, Future Africa’s achievements in its first five years, 2019 to 2024, and our plans for the future.
The latest African Transformation Index (ATI), a tool used to measure the progress of African countries in relation to economic transformation was launched today during a summit hosted by the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET), the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences and Future Africa. The summit was in commemoration of Africa Day (May 25) and was ...
Future Africa, represented by its task team members Dr Farai Kapfudzaruwa, Research, and Strategic Partnerships Manager; Dr Clarietta Chagwiza, Senior Postdoc Research Fellow; Prof Ahmed Bawa, Visiting Fellow; and Dr Chomora Mikeka, STI Director from the Government of Malawi, convened a strategic side event at the 5th International Conference on Governmental Science Advice (INGSA) conference on 1 ...
The University of Pretoria (UP) and the University of Cape Town (UCT) proudly announce the appointment of Professor Maano Ramutsindela as the Future Africa Research Chair in Sustainability Transformations, effective from 1 April 2024. Professor Ramutsindela, currently serving as Professor of Human Geography in UCT's Department of Environmental and Geographical Science, will also hold the pos...
Dr Irene Nyakagere Thomas, from UP's Future Africa Global Equity in Africa Research Chair, highlights the link between social justice and human rights in commemoration of South Africa's Human Rights Day 2024.
This publication highlights two key programmes resulting from the collaboration between Future Africa and UNICEF: the Youth Empowerment and Health/Economic Responses to COVID-19 (YEaH) initiative, and the Women Scientists and Historically Disadvantaged Institutions (YWS & HDI) programme. These initiatives are centered on sustainable efforts to empower youth through education and community engageme...
Dr Heide Hackmann, Director of Future Africa, and Dr Farai Kapfudzaruwa, Research and Partnership Manager, recently travelled to New York to strengthen existing partnerships with the Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations (SA PR to the UN), United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA), and Carnegie Corporation of New York (CCNY).
The Status of One Health in South Africa webinar convened on 19 January 2024, marked a significant milestone in the country's commitment to holistic approaches in addressing health challenges at the human-animal-ecosystem-environment interface. Hosted by the National One Health Forum Committee and supported by Future Africa at the University of Pretoria, this event brought together key stakeholder...
Future Africa hosted the first physical meeting of the Cluster of Research Excellence (CoRE) on the Politics of Sustainable Development: Squaring the Circle of Science and Democracy from 12 to 13 February 2024. The University of Pretoria and the University of Oslo, serving as co-lead institutions, were delighted to welcome their African and European partners.
When it comes to the critically important sectors of science, technology, and innovation (STI), we as Africans continue to have a limited say in setting our agendas and priorities. Within Africa, most funding for scientific research remains external, with major contributions coming from
Welcome to the latest edition of One Health Focus. This One Health newsletter is proudly produced by the South African One Health Forum Steering Committee in partnership with the University of Pretoria Future Africa Research Chair in People, Health, and Place (One Health).
Future Africa and the International Science Council (ISC) collaborated to host a consultative engagement with African STI leaders to forge a way towards boosting African science on the global stage. The meeting formed part of the Science Forum South Africa 2023 held from 4 - 8 December 2023.
Dr Heide Hackmann, Director of Future Africa, the University of Pretoria’s pan-African platform for collaborative research, was honoured with a Science Diplomacy Award in the category of Lifetime Contribution in International STI Cooperation to serve society at the 2023 South Africa Science Forum (SASF2023).
Dr Wegayehu Fitawek, Postdoctoral fellow within Future Africa Sustainable Food Systems Research Chair writes about the interlinkage between climate change and the food system is significant and complex.
Dr Irene Nyakagere Thomas, Postdoctoral fellow within the Future Africa Global Equity in Africa Research Chair reflects on this year's #EndPovertyDay by looking at the complex topic of poverty, especially in Africa.
Dr Pamela Pophiwa, postdoctoral fellow within the Future Africa Research Chair in Sustainable Food Systems writes about the collaborative forum, Qinisa, which aims to promote the coordination of agricultural GHG-related research between relevant research organisations in Southern Africa and provide a platform for knowledge sharing on appropriate GHG-mitigation technologies and practices.
Since the television was invented, it has maintained its long-standing role as a medium of education, information, communication and entertainment. Through these, public opinions have been shaped, diversity has been promoted, and knowledge has been spread globally.
November 20th marks the anniversary of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 and the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989. Today marks 34 years since this groundbreaking milestone convention.
The University of Pretoria (UP) is proud to announce a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nestlé, the world's leading food and beverage company. This marks the beginning of a strategic collaboration aimed at fostering academic excellence, research development, and technical cooperation in the field of sustainable food systems and nutrition.
Latest developments from the collaboration between Future Africa (FA) and the International Science Council (ISC).
Future Africa congratulates Prof Dire Tladi, UP Professor of International Law and Future Africa's Research Chair in Global Equity in Africa, on his appointment as a judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Research by Dr Sussy Munialo, postdoctoral fellow within the ARUA Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Food Systems (ARUA-SFS) – hosted by Future Africa, sought to understand if including traditional crops such as finger millet, amaranth, nightshade, yam, sweet potatoes, Marama bean, and soybean in the African research agenda can improve the nutritional profile and benefits of our diets.
Future Africa joins the global community in celebrating the eighth annual “One Health Day” on 3 November. This day serves as a reminder of the urgent need for a One Health approach to address shared health threats at the intersection of humans, animals, and the environment.
Future Africa, the pan-African collaborative research platform at the University of Pretoria (UP), is pleased to announce the formal appointment of Professor Frans Swanepoel as the Research Chair for the Sustainable Food Systems Domain, effective from 1 November 2023.
The Africa Youth Day is celebrated on the first of November annually since it was proclaimed when the African Union adopted the African Youth Charter during the Banjul Summit 2006. The theme of this year, 2023, is: “1 million Next Level is knocking: Youth-led Movement that Transcends Borders.” This day was set aside annually to promote the increased recognition of youth as critical agents for...
Cities emerged in the hearths of civilisation around the world. Its origin can be traced to the Neolithic revolution, when humans transitioned from the hunter-gatherer lifestyle to a sedentary life of farming.
On World City's Day, we recall that while the road is long and the obstacles are many, the potential for positive transformation is within our grasp. With suitable investments, policies, and improved urban governance, we can create sustainable cities that thrive, providing economic growth and improved quality of life for all, securing a more sustainable and inclusive future for generations.
The latest food security report, The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2023, published by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, highlights that millions worldwide suffer from hunger. The situation is particularly dire in Africa, where it is predicted that over 600 million people will be food insecure by 2030.
Future Africa, in collaboration with the International Science Council (ISC), recently co-hosted a roundtable event on the topic of "Mobilising science and research funding for development: Transforming African science systems to promote sustainable development."
In October, the ARUA Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Food Systems (ARUA-SFS) welcomed Dr Selorm Dorvlo for a 12-month residential early-career research fellowship opportunity.
Future Africa Research Chair in One Health, Professor Wanda Markotter, recently shared valuable insights about viral spillover and the importance of proactive measures such as a "One Heath" in a radio interview with SAFM's Stephen Grootes.
Future Africa Research Chair - Professor Wanda Markotter, a leading expert in zoonotic diseases and One Health from the University of Pretoria joins the newly established Lancet Commission on Prevention of Viral Spillover, a global team of experts tasked with developing an action plan to reduce the risks of virus transmission between animals and humans - the primary cause of most pandemics.
The Theology and Religious Studies Department at the University of Malawi has launched a new publication, The Africa Journal of Religion and Culture, with, as Editor-in-Chief, Dr Dorothy Tembo. This new journal replaces a previous publication, Religion in Malawi, which focused solely on this country’s diverse and complex religious landscape.
Dr Tabitha Amollo has been awarded a visiting research scholar position at Michigan State University (MSU) in the African Futures Research Leadership program. She is one of the ten fellows in the fourth cohort of this program, drawn from member institutions. At MSU, she is hosted by the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
A preliminary analysis of rainwater systems in various parts of Nigeria indicates that groundwater exploration is under pressure in urban areas, and most residents in urban areas still need rainwater systems installed. This situation of not deploring rainwater harvesting systems is quite different in most rural communities where most residents depend majorly on rainwater and have various water har...
Food quality is the quality characteristics of food that is acceptable to consumers. Food fraud is a well-documented crime, and the quality requirements for food are rapidly increasing. An important stepping-stone to monitor and guarantee high-food quality is tracking all elements through the complete production chain, from the base material overall processing steps to the final wholesale and reta...
Water, the lifeblood of our planet, is often taken for granted, and its value in the context of world water and food resources remains underappreciated. As the global population continues to rise and climate change disrupts established weather patterns, we must reassess our understanding of water's significance in the interconnected systems of agriculture, food production, and the sustenance of li...
As Kisii County and the broader African continent celebrate the International Day of Rural Women on 15th October, the theme, "Rural Women Cultivating Good Food for All", stands out prominently.
Girls remain underrepresented in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Mentoring is an effective tool in sparking and sustaining girls’ interest in STEM courses. Dr Tabitha Amollo mentor girls in STEM at Egerton University and in her community.
The World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10th, is a global event that aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and promote the importance of mental well-being. World Mental Health Day 2023 is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the positive aspects of mental health and encourage practices that can help maintain good mental well-being.
Dr Tabitha Amollo fabricated and recently installed a solar-powered refrigerator at Madding Health Dispensary in the interior off-grid part of the Kacheliba sub-county of West Pokot, Kenya.
Teachers are the key to the attainment of any development objective, whether national or global. They build the knowledge, skills and attitude that societies need for its development. Teachers can help achieve the various sustainable development goals (SDGs), national development goals (NDGs), and individual development goals (IDGs) at both low and high levels within society, country, and the glob...
Dr Heide Hackmann, Director of Future Africa at the University of Pretoria, has been selected to lead the new Cluster of Research Excellence (CoRE) titled “The Politics of Sustainable Development: Squaring the Circle of Science and Democracy” in collaboration with Professor Dan Banik at the University of Oslo’s Centre for Development and the Environment (SUM).
FAR-LeaF fellow Dr Emmanuel Chukwuma has been selected as a fellow of the prestigious Nigeria Science Leadership Programme (N-SLP). He addresses plastic pollution by re-engineering plastic – a critical priority for the African continent. His FAR-LeaF research project is focused on the circular economy from plastic waste and the reengineering of plastics with a community engagement strategy.
Women play an essential role in agriculture in Nigeria, as they make up 60% of agricultural labour in this country. Yet, they are considered as farm helpers rather than farmers. This limits their role in decision-making processes and exposure to economic opportunities from active participation in planning processes.
In celebration of International Day of Peace, also known as World Peace Day, the Future Africa Global Equity in Africa Research Chair joins the United Nation’s call to take action for peace and recognises the importance of pursuing strategies to address conflicts and state-sponsored violence.
A groundbreaking report by a group of independent experts commissioned by the United Nations outlines steps governments should take to maximise the impact of policies and actions by tackling the climate and sustainable development crises at the same time, creating synergies
Afrobarometer co-founder and Board Chair E. Gyimah-Boadi told participants in a dialogue hosted by Future Africa at the University of Pretoria that public-attitude surveys have shown that ordinary Africans have the agency and ability to voice their opinions, regardless of the narratives pushed by experts and pundits.
The Future Africa Futures Literacy (FL) Incubator held its first Futures Literacy Masterclass from 15 to 18 August 2023 in partnership with the Wits School of Governance. The masterclass brought together 38 participants from a variety of backgrounds, including academics, practitioners, and students to explore the concept of futures literacy and its application to different fields
Dr. Oladele is using a transdisciplinary approach that would ensure collaboration between the relevant academic disciplines and organisations to proffer sustainable solutions to the mental health issue, which the Covid-19 pandemic has compounded, as a common goal.
Most PhD graduates in Cameroon are unemployed, yet the demand for a PhD constantly increases. Given that education is a powerful instrument for the economic development of every country, there is a need to consider education as an instrument of economic policy to ensure that resources devoted to education yield expected returns. Applying financial concepts in education enables policymakers to ...
Kenya’s marine and coastal environment is of high ecological and economic value with its natural bounties, including beaches, mangroves, coral reefs, plants, and animal life. However, the increase in the population, unplanned development of towns and the effects of climate change are accelerating environmental degradation and biodiversity loss. This loss is severe in marine ecosystems since coas...
In celebration of Women's Month in South Africa, we are shining a spotlight on the phenomenal women who are making strides in their areas of expertise for the betterment of humanity. Meet the dynamic Dr Matilda Azong Cho, Postdoctoral research fellow, Future Africa Sustainable Food Systems Research Chair (FA-SFS)
Eight FAR-LeaF fellows made their mark at last week’s Climate Health African Network for Collaboration and Engagement (CHANCE) conference in Gaborone, Botswana. The fellows are all part of the Future Africa Research Leader Fellowship (FAR-LeaF) Programme.
Biofuel investment in Africa has the potential to harm women's land rights. Dr Matilda Azong Cho argues that policymakers and investors need to take steps to protect women's rights when making biofuel investment decisions. This includes ensuring that women are involved in decision-making processes and that they receive fair compensation for the loss of their land.
August is Women's Month in South Africa. This year, we are shining a spotlight on the phenomenal women who are making strides in their areas of expertise for the betterment of humanity. Meet the vibrant Dr Colleta Gandidzanwa, Research and Project Manager for ARUA Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Food Systems (ARUA-SFS) hosted at Future Africa.
As we mark World Water Week 2023, we explore the experiences and strategies of Hai District's farming communities, showcasing their innovative efforts to adapt to the changing climate and improve their livelihoods.
In response to today's challenges, institutions are embracing change through the transdisciplinarity (TD) movement. Dr Hester du Plessis, Senior Research Fellow at Future Africa shares her insights into the "community of transdisciplinarians," shown by Future Africa which connects academics and society.
Many of the world’s most urgent water challenges are invisible to the naked eye: the availability and state of our groundwater, the global streams of so-called virtual water, and the impact water has on people, nature, and economies.
A thriving society should promote good governance, accountability, and democratisation by increasing citizens’ participation in planning around social amenities like water and sanitation. A shift toward a bottom-up process could offer several benefits, including stakeholder empowerment, user participation, and good governance of water resources. As a fundamental human right, having access to...
Climate change in Ghana has caused crop failures leading to yield reduction and food insecurity in the region. Most vulnerable to this variability and change in climate are smallholder farmers. Changes in rainfall affect all farming activities.
August is Women's Month in South Africa. This year, we are shining a spotlight on the phenomenal women who are making strides in their areas of expertise for the betterment of humanity. Meet Dr Sussy Munialo, a postdoctoral research fellow at Future Africa who is working to improve food security in Africa and beyond.
Future Africa, the pan-African platform for collaborative research at the University of Pretoria, has joined the steering committee to implement the Africa Charter for Transformative Research Collaborations.
The Future Africa Hub of the University of Pretoria recently hosted the second Future Africa Research Leadership Fellowship (FAR-LeaF) Workshop. The 24 research fellows from across Africa who attended responded overwhelmingly positively to the event.
FAR-LeaF fellow Dr Hellen Namawejje of Makerere University, Uganda, is teaching rural women to become money leaders instead of money spenders – and her experiences in the field over the past year have led to a further prestigious fellowship.
The phenomenon of climate change and sustainability continues to generate debate among scholars, practitioners and decision-makers across the globe and calls for action among institutions, governments, and stakeholders to develop interventions for mitigation and adaption.
Agriculture plays a vital role in the economies of many countries. In Tanzania, a developing country, agriculture represents almost 30% of the country’s GDP, with three-quarters of the country’s workforce involved in this sector.
On August 9th each year, the world unites to honour and celebrate the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples. This day is a crucial reminder of indigenous communities' diverse cultures, rich traditions, and invaluable contributions to our global society. However, it also highlights the pressing need to address these communities' challenges, particularly in the context of technology an...
Future Africa at the University of Pretoria, Rhodes University, the NRF, and Future Earth have joined forces to establish the Future Earth Africa Hub Leadership Centre. The Centre will serve as a central hub for sustainability efforts across the continent. Hosted by Future Africa and Rhodes University from 2023 to 2026, its goal is to foster collaboration and coordination among various sustainabil...
RESEARCH | Politics of Security Sector Reform: Violence and the Emergence of Regional Security Outfits in Nigeria Onyekachi E. Nnabuihe | FAR-LeaF Fellow
The African Union launched the Africa Day of Seas and Oceans on July 25th 2015 to raise awareness of the enormous challenges faced by the water sector and the need to harness the rich resources on the continent. The framework was developed to initiate actions on aquaculture and fishery, enhance marine tourism, mitigate human tricking and smuggling through the seas, provide an improved disaster ris...
RESEARCH ARTICLE | Frontiers of belonging and politics of identity: The materiality of funeral rituals and festivals in Nigeria’s urban space Onyekachi E. Nnabuihe | FAR-LeaF Fellow
The Future Africa Research Chair on Health, People and Places (One Health) partnered with the Animal Health Directorate of the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to address the critical issue of basic animal health care in rural farmers. Recognising the high prevalence of tick-borne diseases in livestock, which can pose risks to human health, this collaboration aimed to provid...
World Day to Combat Desertification and Droughts is an attempt to promote public awareness of international efforts to combat desertification. The day offers opportunity to address land degradation through cooperation at all levels. Driven by factors such as population growth, which increases demand for energy, food, and other goods and services, climate change in Africa has posed numerous environ...
Future Africa's Research Chair on Health, People, and Places has launched a STEM skills programme for school learners. The programme offers practical and theoretical science activities, and career exposure opportunities, aimed at investing in the next generation of African scientists.
The University of Ghana has awarded Dr Ebenezer Amankwaa a Postdoctoral Fellowship for the Building a New Generation of Academics in Africa project (BANGA-AFRICA). He is an urban geographer and lecturer at the university's Department of Geography and Resource Development.
Four representatives from the University of Pretoria’s Future Africa Research Leadership Fellowship Programme (FAR-LeaF) will present a session at the Sustainability Research & Innovation (SRI) Congress conference hosted in Panama.
In a recent interview on Business Talk, Dr Heide Hackmann, Director of Future Africa, shed light on the significance of open science and its potential to catalyse transformative innovation and collaboration in Africa.
Health is more than the absence of illness or disease; it encompasses a holistic state of physical, mental, and social well-being. One must achieve complete well-being, not just a lack of sickness, to be healthy. Similarly, mental health is defined as a state of wellness in which individuals can utilise their abilities effectively, manage everyday stressors, perform well at work, contribute to soc...
The Future Africa Institute at the University of Pretoria is pleased to announce and extend its congratulations to Dire Tladi, Professor of International Law and Future Africa's Research Chair of Global Equity in Africa, on his nomination as South Africa's candidate to serve as a judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), commonly known as the World Court.
Eight fellows of the Future Africa Research Leadership Fellowship programme (FAR-LeaF) of the University of Pretoria presented their research at this week's prestigious SRI2023 Africa satellite event.
FAR-LeaF fellow Dr Hauwa Mohammed Sani of the Ahmadu Bello University in Nigeria participated in a panel discussion and presented a paper at a virtual conference presented by the African Centre for the Study of the United States at the University of Pretoria (ACSUS-UP) in June.
Children must use the digital environment to afford crucial opportunities for their voices to be heard in matters that affect them. Digital technologies can help them realise the child’s participation locally, nationally, and internationally.
World Day Against Child Labour is an International Labour Organization-sanctioned holiday launched in 2002, aiming to raise awareness and activism to prevent child labour. Celebrating this day helps create awareness about child labour's educational, mental, economic, socio-emotional, and physical hazards.
In support of efforts to feed, care, and protect people and the planet, the University of Pretoria (UP) has joined forces with France’s University of Montpellier (UM) to lead the establishment of the Feed, Protect, Care Global Collaborative PhD Platform. The platform, which was launched at UP’s Future Africa Institute as part of Africa Week celebrations, will be implemented in partnership with...
RESEARCH | COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN WATER AND SANITATION SERVICE DELIVERY: AN EMPIRICAL CASE OF MANTSOPA MUNICIPALITY, SOUTH AFRICA Prosper Bazaanah | FAR-LeaF Fellow
Two experts affiliated with the University of Pretoria (UP) – Dr Heide Hackmann, Director at UP’s Future Africa Institute, and Dr Tolullah Oni, Extraordinary Professor and Chair at Innovation Africa@UP – have joined an international group of 14 experts co-convened by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate ...
A panel discussion on ‘Networking the Networks’ held at the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Future Africa Institute observed that societal distrust of intellectualism and experts is a growing trend that could dilute universities’ ability to impact the “grand challenges” of the times. The discussion was hosted by the National Research Foundation on 24 May during Africa Week 2023 and mode...
Food security is a fundamental human right. Despite this, there are still over 800 million people around the world who need more food. Over one-third (278 million) of these people live in Africa.
FAR-LeaF Fellow Dr David Ssekamatte was recently recognised as one of 10 outstanding scholars by Carnegie Corporation New York at the African Studies Association (ASA) annual conference 2022 held in Philadelphia in the United States.
FAR-LeaF fellow Dr Emmanuel Chukwuma ended 2022 on a high note: Three studies were published in prominent international scientific research journals.
Marine and coastal fisheries contribute significantly to Africa’s economy and play significant social and nutritional roles in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, escalation of numerous pressures, including overexploitation, climate change and pollution are immensely threatening marine biodiversity and fisheries in Africa.
Pretoria, South Africa - Future Africa Week, a highly anticipated event aimed at celebrating the vibrant cultures and achievements of the African continent, has commenced with great enthusiasm at the University of Pretoria. The week-long festival, organized by the university's esteemed research hub, FutureArica, promises an immersive experience that showcases the diverse traditions, innovative res...
The United Nations 1993 set aside 15 May yearly as an international day for commemorating families. This day provides an opportunity to promote awareness of families’ issues and increase the knowledge of the social, economic and demographic processes affecting families. Families exist everywhere in the world to bear and rear children, to care for and protect vulnerable members during childhood, ...
Climate change in Ghana has caused crop failures leading to yield reduction and food insecurity in the region. Most vulnerable to this variability and change in climate are smallholder farmers.
Most PhD graduates in Cameroon are unemployed, yet the demand for a PhD continuously increases. Given that education is a powerful instrument for the economic development of every country, there is a need to consider education as an instrument of monetary policy to ensure that resources devoted to education yield expected returns. Applying financial concepts in education enables policymakers to be...
Dr Brighton Chunga of Mzuzu University in Malawi is a key researcher for the NORHED II project implemented by Mzuzu University, the University of Malawi, the University of Dar-es-Salaam (Tanzania), and the University of Oslo (Norway).
Water resources significantly influence Malawi’s socioeconomic development. As an agro-based economy, the agriculture sector relies on the availability of water resources, either as rainfall, river flows or groundwater, to support crop and animal production.
In close collaboration with diverse stakeholders, a transdisciplinary team from civil and architectural engineering, the social sciences and climate sciences are developing indicators of how extreme temperature and humidity impact low-income residents' physical and mental health. FAR-LeaF Fellow Dr Ebenezer Amankwaa has since January 2023 been disseminating preliminary findings of his research res...
Islam originated from the word Salam which means peace and carries the symbolic meaning of surrender – surrendering to the will of God. A Muslim embraces Islam, the religion of Peace, with guidance from the holy book of Al-Qur'an and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad – Peace be upon Him. Violence and cruelty are not in the spirit of Islam, nor are they found in the lives of faithful Muslims.
Advances in various fields, including biomedicine, electronics, optoelectronics, energy conversion and storage, are fuelled by nanotechnology. However, there is neither a synchrotron facility in Africa nor many users of BESSY II in Africa. Dr Tabitha Amollo, leader of the materials physics group of Egerton University in Kenya, is changing that.
The 2023 International Women’s Day (IWD) theme highlights efforts to embrace equity. It is a day set aside to draw attention to women's strides and accelerate efforts towards inclusiveness, creating a level playing field for all genders to ultimately benefit the world.
In Africa, women still need to learn financial literacy skills related to savings, entrepreneurship, record-keeping, budgeting and investment. Financial literacy leadership training programs for rural women provide the skills required for a better standard of living – a life with financial muscle.
On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of women across the globe and recognise the importance of promoting gender equality. In the Kenyan context, women are crucial contributors to the agricultural value chain. Digitalization offers an opportunity to encourage inclusivity and economic empowerment for women while integrating sustainability, employability, and clima...
FAR-LeaF fellow Dr Tabitha Amollo reported that the 14th Hope meeting with Nobel Laureates held earlier this year at Tsukuba City, Japan, was the experience of a lifetime: “Sharing a platform with the Nobel Laureates and interacting with them so freely was exhilarating.”
Nigeria is awaiting the result of the national elections, and the situation is already heated. FAR-LeaF fellow Dr Hauwa Mohammed Sani recently presented on citizens’ rights to participate in peaceful and violence-free elections in Nigeria. She referred to violence frequently trailing Nigerian elections since independence in 1964 were marred by irregularities. This resulted in violence that claim...
School feeding refers to meals provided at schools at no cost to the child's family.
FAR-LeaF fellow Dr Anna Msigwa was selected to participate in the 2022 Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) Early Career Fellowship programme.
FAR-LeaF fellow Dr Emmanuel Chukwuma ended 2022 on a high note: Three studies were published in prominent international scientific research journals. Dr Chukwuma is a lecturer in the Agricultural and Bioresources Engineering Department of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Nigeria.
FAR-LeaF fellow Dr Tabitha Amollo of Kenya recently participated in the African Early Career Researchers Meeting (AECRM) at the University of Pretoria.
Dr Ebenezer F. Amankwaa was named Best Overall Researcher at the University of Ghana’s 5th International Conference of the College of Humanities in October 2022.
Malaria, a life-threatening disease, is caused by parasites. These are transmitted to people through the bites of infected female mosquitos. Almost half of the world’s population is at risk, but children, pregnant women and non-immune travellers from malaria-free areas are especially vulnerable to the disease when they become infected.
FAR-LeaF research fellow Dr Nkechi Owoo was one of three women researchers from Ghana and Nigeria who won the Environment for Development (EfD) Initiative’s 2022 Peter Berck’s Best Discussion Paper Award. The team was recognized for their research on the role of social networks in the diffusion and adoption of soil conservation practices over space and time in Nigeria.
2022 finds us with many issues affecting global food security: conflicts, climate change, rising prices, and international tensions. Despite this, we need to build a sustainable world where everyone, everywhere has regular access to enough nutritious food – no one should be left behind.
The Emergent Researcher Resilience Lab aims to bring together doctoral and Early Career Researchers in the Field of Resilience to share knowledge and expertise. The Centre, on 5 October, hosted a hybrid Emergent Resilience Researcher Lab session.
FAR-LeaF Fellow Jumoke Oladele recently had the opportunity to share her research at the 2022 conference of International Associates of Computerised Adaptive Testing (IACAT) at the Goethe University in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Professionals, scholars, and students from all parts of the world converged here to share their knowledge and experiences in workshops, keynote lectures, thematic paper s...
Far-LeaF research fellow Dr Emmanuel Chukwuma has been invited to present his research at the 4th the Pan African Society of Agricultural Engineers (PASAE) International Conference in Kumasi, Ghana later this month. The conference will take place at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology (KNUST).
On Energy Efficiency Day (5 October 2022) advocacy groups around the world spread their simple message: “Save Money. Cut Pollution. Create Jobs.”
FAR-LeaF is an Early Career Research Leadership Fellowship program focussed on developing transdisciplinary research and leadership skills, funded by the Carnegie Corporation in New York. In particular, the programme seeks to build a network of emerging African scientists with the skills to apply transdisciplinary approaches and collaborate to address complex challenges in the human well-being and...
World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated in the first week of August to highlight the importance of breastfeeding. This is due to the crucial role that breastfeeding plays in the life of both newborn babies and mothers. Not only does breastfeeding prevent babies from infections and lower their risk of health issues later in life, but it helps the mother's uterus to contract after birth. Breastfeedin...
The African Union (AU) commemorates Pan-African Women’s Day on the 31st of July. The commemoration is linked to the AU Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow campaign. This year focuses on Innovative Solutions for Financial and Economic Inclusion for African Women.
Human activities during the last century have had a devastating impact on nature’s resources. The ever-expanding population, rapid industrialisation and relentless human overexploitation of resources have led to the cutting down of forest cover to make space for urban development and farming – to the extent of causing unusual weather patterns, destruction of wildlife habitats, extinction of sp...
World Brain Day 2022 is dedicated to “Brain Health for all”. Research Fellow Dr Joseph Nelson Siewe Fodjo is a medical doctor and research officer at the Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN) in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Currently, he is participating in the Future Africa Leader Fellowship Programme (FAR-LeaF) at the University of Pretoria.
Future Africa recently hosted a group of vibrant and enthusiastic young budding scientists to pilot a Robotics and Coding Course on the 30th of July, 2022.
The challenges facing young people worldwide regarding employment and entrepreneurship are especially severe – traditionally even more so in Africa. The number of youth that are Not in Employment, Education and Training (NEET) has been climbing steadily since 2017. Globally, one in five young people is NEET. Three out of four young NEETs are women.
The world’s largest transdisciplinary gathering for the global sustainability community is currently being held at the University of Pretoria’s Future Africa Institute and Campus. The Sustainability, Research and Innovation Congress (SRI2022) unites more than 2 000 global research leaders, government and civil society experts, funders, and innovators to inspire action and promote sustainabilit...
This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, as part of our commemoration for #AfricaDay, which is celebrated on 25 May, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr. Heide Hackmann, the Interim Director and Advisor on Transdisciplinarity and Global Knowledge Networks at the Future Africa Institute | University of Pretoria. Prior to this role Dr Hackmann served as CEO of the International Science Council.
The ground-breaking One Health High-Level Expert Panel's 2021 (OHHLEP) annual report has just gone live. What makes this noteworthy is that Professor Wanda Markotter is one of two global experts on the OHHLEP.
Happening today! #CLABAfrica Webinar 3
The future we want to live in is on the horizon. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a target framework to achieve this ideal, but a realisation of many goals requires innovation – institutional, policy, technological, and societal – and a willingness to change. Additionally, the interlinked and interdependent nature of the SDGs makes it important to take a systemic perspective, ...
The 2022 Sustainability Research and Innovation Congress Programme is now available.
The congress will gather global leaders, experts, industry practitioners, and innovators in the field of sustainability.
The ECRLF is an initiative of the Future Africa Institute at the University of Pretoria (UP) funded by the Carnegie Corporation of New York (CCNY). It serves early career research leaders in basic and applied sciences, engineering, social sciences, the humanities and the arts.
UP welcomes international science diplomat, advisor and policy maker, Dr Heide Hackmann (former CEO of The International Science Council) on staff as the Interim Director at the Future Africa Institute. Born in Kwa-Zulu Natal and having travelled abroad acquiring multiple scholarly and career achievements, she returns to South Africa after nearly 30 years with a determined vision to help empower t...
SRI Inkundlas are a series of four interactive and inspirational events organised every month leading up to the 2022 Sustainability Research and Innovation (SRI) Congress, to be held at the Future Africa Institute at the University of Pretoria, South Africa from 20-24 June 2022. The SRI pre-Congress Inkundlas aims to emphasise the collaborative, inclusive and engaging nature of the Congress, while...
SRI Inkundla – Building Peace for Sustainability through Science Join us for the second SRI Inkundla, Building Peace for Sustainability through Science and engage with two free virtual events held from 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm SAST on March 28, 2022 (view your local time) and 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm SAST on March 31, 2022 (view your local time).
UP academics Professor Irma Eloff and Dr Kgadi Mathabathe are two women from diverse backgrounds who are working together through community empowerment, spearheading the South African leg of the research project, Teach4Reach. The initiative explores how teacher education programmes in the Global South and the Global North can be leveraged to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
FutureAfrica at the University of Pretoria, Belmont Forum & Future Earth CALL FOR SESSION PROPOSALS for the Sustainability Research & Innovation Congress 2022 #SRI2022
DEADLINE EXTENDED – SRI2022 Call for Session Proposals Now Closing February 18, 2022!
The ECRLF 2021 Malawi Biodiversity Conference, 20 to 23 July 2021.
FutureAfrica at the University of Pretoria, Belmont Forum & Future Earth CALL FOR SESSION PROPOSALS for the Sustainability Research & Innovation Congress 2022! #SRI2022!
FUTURE AFRICA RESEARCH LEADERSHIP FELLOWSHIP (FAR-LeaF) NEW CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 14 JANUARY 2022
The Sustainability Research and Innovation Congress 2022 (SRI2022) is pleased to announce welcome session proposals in English, French, Japanese, Spanish and Mandarin language sessions through its open Call for Session Proposals. Learn more and submit a proposal in the language of your choice by February 5, 2022, at 23:59 SAST (UTC +2).
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) welcome the newly formed operational definition of One Health from their advisory panel, the One Health High Level Expert Panel (OHHLEP), whose members represent a broad range of disciplines in sci...
The Africa Science Leadership Programme (ASLP) is growing and evolving, and also in terms of its leadership. At its last meeting, the Steering Committee appointed Dr. Connie Nshemereirwe as the new Director of the programme, taking over from the founding Director, Prof Bernard Slippers. Now in its seventh year, the ASLP aims at growing mid-career African academics in the areas of thought leader...
Professor Cheikh Mbow, Director of the Future Africa Institute at the University of Pretoria (UP), has been featured in the Netflix documentary Breaking Boundaries. The film, which is narrated by Sir David Attenborough, explores the extent of Earth’s degradation. “It was a privilege to be one of the scientists selected to feature in this global documentary,” Prof Mbow said. “This film i...
Future Africa is a flagship institute of the University of Pretoria located on the university’s Hillcrest campus. The campus offers a tranquil, yet modern environment away from the busy Hatfield centre. The postgraduate residence at Future Africa offers accommodation for post-doctoral fellow
Venue: Golf Course Hotel Kampala Date: 8th-9th November 2021 Time: 08:00 to 17:00 each day
The Sustainability Research and Innovation Congress 2022 (SRI2022) will take place from June 20-24, 2022, in Pretoria, South Africa and online. Hosted by the Future Africa Institute at the University of Pretoria, SRI2022 will build on the success of the first SRI Congress which took place in June this year and featured 700 speakers and 2,000 participants from 100 countries. A joint initiative of F...
An international sustainability conference held in the most environmentally sustainable manner possible: via online streaming – that was the Sustainability Research and Innovation Congress 2021 (SRI2021). It brought together 2 000 participants from more than 100 countries between 12 and 15 June 2021.
The Future Africa’s Early Career Research Leader Fellowship (ECRLF) supported by Carnegie Corporation of New York set out to offer an opportunity for development of research leaders that will be able to fill a critical gap in the African research capacity ecosystem.
In a bid to expand the African Science Leadership Programme (ASLP) to the different regions of Africa, ASLP has partnered with the prospective Young Academy in Mauritius for the first virtual Regional ASLP for early and mid-career researchers in the South African sub-region.
On Thursday, 2 September 2021, the Embassy of France in South Africa, with the support of the University of Pretoria and Future Africa, will host a debate on Africa's priorities when it comes to global environmental issues.
The event is being hosted by the Future Africa Institute at the University of Pretoria, in partnership with stakeholders from the government and the Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Institute.
Pretoria – Professor Tawana Kupe, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria (UP), has initiated an Artist in Residency Fellowship Programme to be based at the university's Future Africa Research Institute, with Dr Nokuthula Mazibuko Msimang being appointed as the inaugural fellow.
In recognition of Nelson Mandela's dedication to the service of humanity, which includes the rights of children, information ethicist Rachel Fischer shed light on a collaborative initiative between the Future Africa institute and campus and UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Emergency Fund, in which she plays a crucial role.
The CLAB-Africa Project was conceived with by Future Africa Institute to provide a platform for Africa’s scientific community to contribute to the developmental works of African governments and development institutions. The nature of the Project’s contributions will be in the form of science-based actionable policy recommendations within the four identified clusters. These clusters are namely:...
Teach4Reach is an Africa-Uninet (https://africa-uninet.at/en/) funded collaborative project awarded to the University of Pretoria, University of Vienna and the University of Innsbruck. Two University of Pretoria academics, Professor Irma Eloff and Dr Kgadi Mathabathe work collaboratively with Professor Evi Agostini (Universities of Vienna) and Dr Ann-Kathrin Dittrich (University of Innsbruck) are ...
The main aim of the Future Africa - 1Hope series was to abet in building transdisciplinary research (TR) capacity of early career and Doctoral students in Africa. The series took place in November/December 2020 and in January 2021.
The Future Africa Research Institute, University of Pretoria Early Career Research Leader Fellowship (ECRLF) Conference: Promoting Multidisciplinary Research Approaches for Sustainable Development will be held on 6-8 July 2021.
RNPIA-2021 Organising Committee invites participants across the globe to attend its 1st International Conference on Reimagining the Natural Products Industry in Africa which is taking place during July 5th – 7th, 2021 at Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala, Uganda.
As the first international Sustainability Research and Innovation Congress (SRI2021) takes place with the purpose of discussing and defining sustainability research and what it comprises, Africa has an opportunity to deliberate on what sustainability science means for the continent.
South Africa has long been a leader on the African continent and around the globe for sustainability science and innovation as well as participatory approaches to action research.
The Sustainability Research & Innovation Congress 2021 (SRI2021) is the world’s first transdisciplinary gathering in sustainability – it will be a space of fierce advocacy for sustainability scholarship, innovation, collaboration, and action.
The Harvard Center for African Studies Africa Office will convene Partnerships in STEM Innovation and Future Africa
UNICEF partnered with the University of Pretoria to scale up various skill-building and capacities to respond to COVID-19 with a focus on youth.
Early career researchers (ECRs) from South Africa (SA) and the United Kingdom (UK) are invited to APPLY NOW for the British Council funded Climate Change Malaria Action (C2MA) workshop: “Investigating the effects of climate change on malaria for urgent action to combat climate change with reference to COP26 priorities.”
Africa is capable of manufacturing safe and effective vaccines – it just needs the support to do so.
The event will take place on Thursday, 3 June 2021 at 14h00. The aim of the forum is to establish a transdisciplinary, inter-institutional, academic-industry network to support collaboHEALTH ECONOMICS DISCUSSION FORUM AT UP (HEDF@UP)
“A strong focus is mentoring young academics in this transdisciplinary space and expanding resources,” says Prof Wanda Markotter. Prof Markotter, Director of the UP’s Centre for Viral Zoonoses, has been appointed as Future Africa Research Chair on Health-People-Places.
Future Africa (at the University of Pretoria) and Nepoworx are pleased to announce a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on the 4 of May 2021 to develop science and skills on solar photovoltaic (PV). The objective of the programme is to upskill a total of 900 youth and women scholars and entrepreneurs over the next three (3) years ensuring participation in the green economy, and more importan...
The FNB Varsity Cup captains took part in a tree-planting ceremony at the University of Pretoria’s Future Africa campus on Friday.
The new joint initiative of Future Earth and the Belmont Forum, the Sustainability Research and Innovation Congress (SRI) will be the leading annual meeting for sustainability scholarship and innovation, trans-disciplinary and cross-sectoral collaboration, and knowledge to action. Please join us and bring your team!
Apply now for the IRD SRI2021 Scholarships. The Sustainability Research and Innovation Congress 2021 (SRI2021) is engaging participants from all parts of the world at what will be the world’s first transdisciplinary gathering in sustainability.
COVID-19 revealed that transformation is considered necessary, and it is possible to promote large-scale rapid behavioural changes to address emerging social-environmental challenges. But social changes can be resisted, such as those leading to the reduction of privileges or personal freedoms.
Thursday, 4 March at 15h–16h CET The Transformations to Sustainability programme (a joint initiative of the International Science Council, the Belmont Forum and the NORFACE network) invites you to an in-depth discussion of some of the critical questions for research on transformations to sustainability in early 2021.
The Centre for AAC, Future Africa (University of Pretoria) and UNICEF have jointly completed the project titled “Co-designing health communication and education materials for COVID-19 and other health related matters for use with individuals in South Africa with disability/communication vulnerability.
On 10 December 2020, University of Pretoria researchers – collaborating on the Youth Empowerment and Health/Economic Responses to COVID-19 (YEaH), funded by UNICEF – presented to the 3rd edition of the Galien Forum.
Director Prof Cheikh Mbow says he wants to convey that “the emerging risk for Africa, in general, can be addressed only if we establish transdisciplinarity”.
We are delighted to invite you to participate in a groundbreaking "Future Africa -1 HOPE " webinar series. The aim of the series is to build collaborative transdisciplinary research capacity of early career and doctoral students through a One Health & Well-Being lens - using the Zoom-digital platform.
Africa is the continent most impacted by food insecurity. Millions suffer from inadequate quantity and quality of food every year, with children and women the most affected.
Dr. Festus A. Adejoro,an animal scientist at the University of Pretoria wants to work with a multidisciplinary team of scientists to reduce methane emissions from ruminant animals in Africa.
The University of Pretoria’s (UP) Future Africa institute and campus recently hosted an online panel discussion that featured a group of prominent women who are well known throughout Africa for their achievements in fields such as medicine, chemistry, academia, and development economics.
Researchers all over the world are hard at work developing a vaccine for COVID-19. So, what if researchers could deliver life-saving vaccines transdermally; that is, without using needles?
The University of Pretoria (UP) has partnered with the United Nations International Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to conceptualise and implement initiatives that will address challenges faced by young people in South Africa.
Future Africa is coordinating the COVID-19 research and engagement platform (CORE-P) to harness a vibrant community of practice driven by UP and to embrace a wide range of academia in Africa. The key principle of CORE-P is transdisciplinary research that brings various teams together to co-design targeted research outcomes and results for higher impact.
Participants from around the world joined a University of Pretoria (UP)-hosted webinar titled “Future Africa Post-COVID-19” on Friday.
May is Africa Month and 25 May is Africa Day. As a university that aspires to be a leading institution in our country and our continent, internationally recognised and connected, we celebrate our Africanness.
Marking International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) on 22 May 2020, themed "Our solutions are in nature" we are all challenged to promote solutions found in our natural ecosystem that will preserve and sustain our biodiversity. Africa Science Leadership Programme (ASLP) cohort 5 fellow, Dr. NZWEUNDJI Justine Germo, a plant biotechnologist by training, writes for us on the importance of preser...
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, patients of chronic diseases like cancer have come under the spotlight as they are at higher risk of severe illness if infected by the virus.
While basic research into potential therapeutics has certainly bloomed in Africa recently, most of the actual drug development process still happens outside of Africa’s borders, including clinical trials on humans.
On International Women's Day, which is celebrated every year on the 8th of March, ASLP fellow, Dr. Tonjock Rosemary Kinge, writes for us about why Africa needs mentorship for females to get them interested in STEM fields.
We sat down for a Q & A with Dr. Connie Nshemereirwe a member of the Africa Science Leadership Programme (ASLP) steering committee, Co-Chair of the Global Young Academy, an independent science and policy facilitator, a trainer, writer, and speaker to find out how she got involved with the Africa Science leadership program.
After working for 20 years in some of the most prestigious hotels, Chef Jelele decided to move to Future Africa to try something different, that would challenge him to move out of his comfort zone.
The Director of Future Africa Professor Cheikh Mbow together with a delegation from the University of Pretoria (UP) recently visited Japan to deepen partnerships with Japanese institutions.
When Dr. Kagimu talks about nematology, you are transported on a journey that makes you start to appreciate the diverse group of roundworms that occur worldwide in virtually every environment.
Dr. Alice Nabatanzi was mentored into Natural Products Phytopharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals directly after high school and has continued on the same career path to where she is today.
From Banker to Researcher; Dr. Florece Opondo’s humble beginning in the banking industry is an inspirational tale. No one thought she would decide on such a drastic career change after eight years in banking.
Dr Fanelwa Ajayi says that in her line of work as a biosensor researcher in South Africa, women often struggle to juggle the demands of a professional research career with those of a family. “It is either you do well at work or at home, with no real balance. But one thing I learnt from my professors is that as a woman, you have a right to work and to choose your work.”
Professor Stephanie Burton, Vice-Principal: Research and Postgraduate Education, invites you to the launch of the University of Pretoria’s Research Data Management system.
While doing his first year at Makerere University, Dr. John Mushomi found himself in a challenging situation which led him to follow a career in sociology (and later population migration and development).
University of Pretoria Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof. Tawana Kupe collected soil samples at the Future Africa campus on 30 October as part of a FABI-hosted Citizen Science project “Fungi for Future”.
The Africa Science Leadership Programme announces the launch of their 2020 call. The sixth ASLP workshop is planned to be held in Pretoria at the Future Africa campus in March 2020. The programme was launched in June 2015 with a first cohort of 20 fellows.
Growing up, Dr. Oluwole Coker had a deep passion for African literary and cultural studies. “I was fascinated by the depth of African orature and its seeming inexhaustiveness.” These were the experiences that motivated him to study Literature.
Dr. Carene Picot-Allain in simple terms is living her childhood dreams. Her love of nature as a young child was a clear sign that she was destined for a career in natural sciences.
The Early Career Research Fellows attended two thoughtful workshops on 16 October at Future Africa. A 'Future Studies' workshop was held early on Wednesday by expert Dr Robert Bourgeois and a Science Communication session was later facilitated by Ms Anina Mumm of Sciencelink.
The fifth round of the Tuks Young Research Leader Programme successfully completed a fifth round on 14 and 15 October. The workshop took place, for the first time, at the new Future Africa Institute.
Imagine this headline in 2037: "Mushrooms make Africa great again"...Future Africa's Dr Rosemary Kinge Tonjock, from Cameroon, believes the modest #mushroom could help boost #foodsecurity in Africa.
Technology has permeated different aspects of our lives and by all indications this is only going to increase with Artificial Intelligence (AI) set to be at pole position.
Future Africa is excited to welcome its new Director, Prof Cheikh Mbow, who joins the team from START-International in Washington DC.
Could a cure for Alzheimer’s be growing in this biotechnologist’s backyard? Over 2 million dementia sufferers in sub-Saharan Africa are waiting for a cure or a treatment that does better than just slowing their deterioration. A treatment they and their families can afford and trust.
It’s the year 2035. Nigeria’s massive jobs surge has prompted other African governments to adopt its youth startup funding model.
The year is 2033 and the world has finally stopped a tree-killing fungus wreaking havoc on the global forestry industry, all thanks to African scientists.
Imagine a future where an African-led team of scientists announce the first HIV vaccine.
The Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Tshwane (BEST) project aims to measure the contribution to ecosystem functions and services by native plants in urban contexts. The native garden at Future Africa is one of two native patches that have been implemented on the project, the other being at the Javett Art Centre on Hatfield campus.
The Next Einstein Forum (NEF) was launched in 2013 by the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) and aims to make Africa the global hub for science and technology.
This month we celebrate all the achievements of all women staff and students who contribute to THE UP WAY and vision. These women’s positive contribution to our society, through pursuing excellence in teaching, research, and innovation, is instrumental to UP.
The Department of Consumer and Food Sciences at the University of Pretoria is hosting a special dinner to celebrate our indigenous food of which some of these ingredients will be foraged on their Future Africa Campus. DIANE DE BEER spoke to botanist and curator Jason Sampson as well as some of the other participants about this exciting concept.
The West Africa Science Leadership Programme (W-ASLP) was launched during a three-day leadership training workshop from the 21st to the 23rd of July 2019 at the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), University of Ghana.
The Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Tawana Kupe, held an informal introductory function with the University of Pretoria Postdoctoral community in Future Africa.
The year is 2035. Governments all over Africa have adopted a successful Nigerian funding model for youth startups.
What do the Sustainable Development Goals, Little Red Riding Hood and Sixty Minutes have in common?