The recent Afretec annual conference in Kigali, Jan 20-21 underscored the critical role of collaboration in driving Africa’s digital transformation. This gathering of university leaders, organizations, and innovators aimed to foster inclusive growth by ensuring that the benefits of digital advancements reach all segments of society.
A Call for Action:
The conference emphasized the need to shift from being mere consumers of technology to active creators. This shift is crucial for generating the jobs and opportunities that will propel Africa’s future. Key figures, including Rwanda’s Minister of Education, Joseph Nsengimana, and Conrad Tucker, Director at CMU-Africa, stressed the importance of:
- Bridging the digital divide: Ensuring equitable access to technology and digital skills for all citizens.
- Fostering strategic partnerships: Collaborating with governments, academia, and the private sector to drive sustainable growth.
- Empowering the next generation: Investing in education and training programs that equip young Africans with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.
A Platform for Collaboration and Innovation:
The Afretec Network serves as a vital platform for:
- Sharing best practices: Exchanging knowledge and successful case studies among universities and organizations across the continent.
- Developing actionable strategies: Identifying and addressing the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation.
- Empowering the next generation of leaders: Providing hands-on training and entrepreneurial programs to equip students and faculty with the skills to tackle real-world challenges.
A Vision for the Future:
The conference participants expressed a strong commitment to:
- Strengthening collaboration: Deepening partnerships between universities, governments, and the private sector.
- Promoting co-creation: Fostering a culture of innovation and knowledge sharing within the African tech ecosystem.
- Aligning with continental visions: Working towards the goals of Agenda 2063 and national development plans, such as Rwanda’s Vision 2050.
University of Nairobi Presence:
Several distinguished faculty members from the University of Nairobi also attended the event in Kigali:
- Prof. Francis Mulaa – Afretec Network Coordinator
- Dr. Thomas Ochuku – Knowledge Creation Pillar
- Professor Duncan Mbuge – Teaching and Learning Pillar
- Dr. Sam Ruhiu – Entrepreneurship and Innovation Pillar
- Professor Winnie Mitula – Inclusion and Diversity Pillar
Other Key Takeaways:
- Damilola Odekunle, a lecturer at the University of Lagos, emphasized the importance of co-creation and knowledge sharing within the network, which brings together African academics and industry practitioners in engineering and technology. She expressed her interest in learning how different universities integrate digital technology into education, particularly how educators use these tools to enhance knowledge transfer.
As Africa navigates the complexities of the digital age, the Afretec Network will continue to play a crucial role in shaping a future where inclusive growth and sustainable development are a reality for all.
