The African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) has reported significant progress in research citation impact among its member universities, with some achieving or exceeding the global average. The report, covering 2015-2021, highlights increased publication rates, particularly in health and environmental sciences, and underscores the importance of data collection for institutional benchmarking and improvement. Despite high levels of international collaboration, co-authorship among ARUA universities remains low, prompting calls for enhanced internal collaboration. The report also notes improvements in postgraduate program efficiency and gender diversity, though gaps remain. ARUA's leadership emphasizes the need for clear strategies to foster collaboration and data-driven planning.

Irish universities aim to double the number of African students within the next three to five years to achieve a target of 30% international students. The initiative, led by Education in Ireland, faces challenges such as low awareness and limited embassy presence in Africa. Efforts include strategic marketing in regions with embassies, focusing initially on Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda. The universities value African students for their motivation and self-funding capabilities. Ireland offers competitive tuition fees, post-study work opportunities, and a welcoming environment, positioning itself as an emerging destination for international students.

A significant effort to revitalize the African Crop Science Society (ACSS) is showing progress, with a focus on recruiting members and preparing for the 13th ACSS conference in September 2024. The conference, hosted by Eduardo Mondlane University in Maputo, Mozambique, in collaboration with the Institute of Agricultural Research and other institutions, aims to bring together over 400 stakeholders from across Africa. The event will feature thematic discussions, scientific presentations, and the ACSS annual general meeting, where new board members will be elected. The conference theme is 'Crop research and innovation for agricultural transformation, resilience and inclusion.'

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras campus in Zanzibar, which opened less than six months ago, is experiencing a surge in popularity and plans to double its student intake due to high interest in its engineering and science programs. The campus, a result of a collaboration between the governments of India and Tanzania-Zanzibar, offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in data science and artificial intelligence. Campus director Professor Preeti Aghalayam emphasizes the focus on quality education and the diverse, international student body. The campus is also initiating regional partnerships and considering expanding its offerings to include programs in infrastructure engineering, sustainability, and communication engineering.

African countries are encouraged to introduce scientific visas to enhance mobility and collaboration among researchers, addressing barriers such as visa denials and limited access to research facilities. Initiatives like the African Academy of Sciences, African BioImaging Consortium, and various universities and networks are promoting resource sharing, remote access to equipment, and scientific development. The underrepresentation of women in science and the need for inclusive education are also highlighted. UNESCO and the African Union are actively supporting these efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goals and foster scientific innovation in Africa.

The African Union Commission has initiated the review of its 10-year science blueprint, STISA 2024, in collaboration with UNESCO, aiming to develop a new strategy, STISA 2034, by mid-2024. The review process, led by the African Centre for Technology Studies and supported by the Association of African Universities, seeks input from various stakeholders to assess the impact of STISA 2024 on Africa's socio-economic development. The strategy focuses on critical sectors such as agriculture, health, and infrastructure, and aims to align with the AU Vision 2063. A consultative meeting in Cape Town brought together representatives from member states, regional bodies, and the private sector to discuss the development of STISA 2034.

Smallholder farmers in the Global South receive only 0.3% of international climate finance despite their crucial role in food production and climate adaptation. A new report highlights the disparity, noting that family farmers and rural communities received around USD 2 billion out of the USD 8.4 billion allocated to the agriculture sector in 2021. The study, conducted by Climate Focus, emphasizes the need for increased and more accessible climate finance for sustainable agricultural practices. It also calls for greater involvement of smallholder farmers in decision-making processes. The report underscores the significant role of family farmers in climate adaptation and the urgent need for more equitable distribution of climate funds.

French universities, under the guidance of Campus France, are shifting their recruitment strategies in Africa to prioritize merit over regional language, targeting both anglophone and francophone students. This change aims to attract high-quality students and increase the number of international students in France. The move comes amid strained diplomatic relations and rising visa rejections for students from certain African countries. French universities offer competitive tuition fees and numerous scholarships, making them an attractive alternative to North American and other European destinations. The French ambassador to Kenya and Kenya’s Commission for University Education emphasize the importance of reciprocal partnerships and student mobility between the two countries.

Smallholder farmers from the Global South, who produce a third of the world's food, receive only 0.3% of international climate finance. A report by Climate Focus highlights the disproportionate funding, with USD 2 billion of the USD 8.4 billion for agriculture in 2021 going to these farmers, despite their key role in climate-proofing food systems. The study, representing over 35 million smallholder producers, reveals that 80% of public climate finance is funneled through governments and NGOs, making it difficult for farmers' organizations to access due to complex rules and lack of information. The report calls for increased finance for sustainable, climate-resilient practices and direct access for small-scale family farmers, emphasizing their role in climate adaptation and food system transformation.

Smallholder farmers and rural communities received only USD 2 billion from international climate funds in 2021, despite the agriculture sector needing an estimated USD 300-350 billion annually for sustainable food systems. The study by Climate Focus highlights the disparity in climate finance distribution, with most funds channeled through governments and NGOs, making it difficult for smallholder farmers to access. The report calls for increased direct climate finance for sustainable practices and greater involvement of farmers' organizations in decision-making processes. The article criticizes the current allocation of funds, noting that significant amounts go to the Global North and large corporations like Bayer, while smallholder farmers, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, are sidelined.

Smallholder farmers, producing a third of the world's food, received only 0.3% of international climate finance in 2021, amounting to USD 2 billion out of USD 8.4 billion allocated to agriculture. This is disproportionate to the estimated USD 300-350 billion needed annually for sustainable food systems and the USD 170 billion required by Sub-Saharan African farmers. The study by Climate Focus highlights the impact of climate change on agricultural productivity and the sector's contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation. It criticizes the complex access to funds for smallholder farmers and calls for increased finance for sustainable, climate-resilient practices, including agroecology. The report, representing over 35 million smallholder producers, urges governments to recognize farmers as key to climate adaptation and food security, and to involve them in decision-making processes.

French universities are leveraging affordable fees, English-taught programs, and high-quality education to attract more students from English-speaking African countries. Under Campus France, they aim to diversify their African student base beyond traditional French-speaking nations. With 1,600 degree programs in English, they offer a range of business and engineering courses. The French government subsidizes education, making fees competitive compared to the US, Canada, and the UK. Despite attractive fees, admission remains competitive, targeting top students. Campus France's efforts include a 'taught-in English' platform to inform non-French speaking students about available programs.

African universities must invest in technical capacity for AI to avoid 'data colonialism' and ensure they are not merely consumers of foreign data. Experts emphasize the need for staff training, developing authentic data sets, and creating local AI codes of conduct. The webinar 'The Ethics of AI and Data in Higher Education' highlighted the urgency of these measures. Key speakers stressed the importance of policies encouraging industry collaboration, data protection, and addressing disparities in technology access. Ethical challenges, such as academic integrity and data ethics, were also discussed, with calls for integrating these into higher education curricula.

The high study permit refusal rate for African students seeking to study in Canada is attributed to the recruitment model that invites mass applications and relies on inexperienced agents. This trend is not limited to Africa but affects students globally. Between 2018 and April 2023, Canada rejected a significant percentage of visa applications from African students. While racism is considered a factor, the primary reasons include the aggregator recruitment model and inexperienced agents. Recommendations include further research and regulation of education agents, and a two-tier international student intake stream.

The Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture and the West and Central African Research and Education Network have signed an MOU to establish an agricultural data repository offering free data access to researchers. This initiative, supported by AfricaConnect3 and LIBSENSE, will also promote open-access publishing and open science. A platform for agriculture research data sharing and management will be created, and a knowledge repository will be revamped. A needs assessment survey was conducted, and findings will be presented at the RUFORUM AGM in Yaoundé, Cameroon. The collaboration aims to enhance scientific discovery and learning experiences in agriculture through ICT-enabled techniques.

A new scientific advisory network across 12 African countries aims to improve pandemic response by empowering scientists to shape national plans. Led by Pacifique Ndishimye from the University of Rwanda, the project addresses challenges like limited medical resources and aims to enhance collaborations between scientists and policymakers. The initiative, supported by various international funding bodies, also promotes public participation in science, better governance structures, and reduced political interference in advisory bodies. The project has introduced cost-effective testing strategies and aims to foster ongoing partnerships between scientific communities, governments, and the private sector.

Major river basins in Africa have become conflict zones over the past 20 years due to climate change and environmental degradation, leading to significant drops in agricultural yields and mass migrations. The State of Africa’s Environment Report 2023 highlights the distress in critical water basins like Lake Chad, the Nile, and the Congo, exacerbated by unsustainable resource use and climate impacts. The report underscores the urgent need for sustainable water management and conservation efforts to mitigate these crises and protect biodiversity, with significant contributions from African journalists and scientists.

Major river basins in Africa have become conflict zones over the past 20 years due to climate change and environmental degradation, leading to significant agricultural yield drops and mass migrations. The State of Africa's Environment Report 2023 highlights the severe impacts on water resources, biodiversity loss, and the resulting socio-economic challenges. Key water basins like Lake Chad, the Nile, and the Congo are experiencing distress, exacerbating conflicts and displacement. The report underscores the need for sustainable water management and conservation efforts to mitigate these crises.

The article emphasizes the critical role of women in the success of pastoralism in Africa, particularly in the context of climate change and disease outbreaks. It highlights the importance of involving women in vaccination strategies and livestock health campaigns to ensure food and financial security for families. The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) and other organizations are actively working to integrate women into these efforts, recognizing their influence on household resource allocation and their role as caregivers. The article also discusses the challenges women face, such as cultural norms and lack of access to information, and the initiatives aimed at overcoming these barriers, including the SheVax+ research project and livestock insurance programs.

Women in East Africa's pastoralist areas are pivotal to livestock health, playing a key role in animal vaccination campaigns against diseases exacerbated by climate change. Despite cultural barriers to livestock ownership, women are caregivers and increasingly head households, with 43 percent of livestock insurance policyholders being women. The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) has included women in disease surveillance and response strategies, recognizing their importance in managing household resources and advocating for their active support. Initiatives like the Livestock Vaccine Innovation Fund and SheVax+ research project aim to improve livestock health and women's access to vaccines. Climate change poses a significant threat to pastoralism, with frequent droughts and disease outbreaks, making women's involvement in livestock health programs crucial for family food and financial security.

Women in East Africa play a crucial role in pastoralism, particularly in livestock health and vaccination campaigns, which are vital due to climate change-induced diseases. Despite cultural barriers, women are increasingly involved in livestock management, with many heading households and holding livestock insurance policies. Organizations like the International Livestock Research Institute and initiatives such as the Livestock Vaccine Innovation Fund and SheVax+ are working to improve women's access to vaccines and disease control measures. These efforts aim to enhance food and financial security, resilience against climate risks, and social inclusion in livestock health programs.

Nearly all major river basins in Africa have become conflict epicenters over the past 20 years, with agricultural yields potentially dropping by up to 50% due to the depletion of traditional water sources. Climate change and environmental degradation are significant contributors, leading to mass migrations and increased competition for water resources. The 2023 State of the Environment in Africa report highlights the critical water basins, including Lake Chad, the Nile, and the Congo River, and underscores the urgent need for sustainable water management to ensure global water security. The report also notes the severe impact of climate change on biodiversity and the high rate of species extinction in Africa.

The African higher education system requires diversification and decolonisation to meet the continent's developmental challenges and employment needs. Current models, which replicate existing universities and upgrade polytechnics, have failed to increase enrolment and reduce graduate unemployment. Professor Goolam Mohamedbhai advocates for a diversified system with specialised universities and technical colleges. Decolonisation efforts should focus on languages, curriculum, and research to reflect African realities. Despite challenges like colonial ideologies and limited resources, countries like Kenya and Tanzania are making strides towards competency-based education. ANIE aims to advance research, capacity-building, and policy advocacy for higher education transformation.

Kenya's proposal to lead a UN-backed security mission in Haiti has sparked significant debate and criticism both domestically and internationally. The mission, approved by the UN Security Council, aims to restore order in Haiti, plagued by gang violence. While supported by countries like the US, France, and Canada, the mission faces opposition from Kenyan political factions and legal challenges, questioning its constitutionality and necessity. Critics argue the mission diverts attention from Kenya's internal issues, while supporters claim it could enhance Kenya's international reputation. The mission's feasibility and potential risks remain contentious, with preparations underway for deployment in December 2023.

Nigerian students are increasingly seeking alternative study destinations in Europe, Asia, and Canada due to the UK's ban on dependant visas and the depreciating value of the Naira. Interest in UK study programs has significantly declined, while countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Canada are seeing a rise in Nigerian student applications. The article highlights the financial challenges faced by Nigerian students abroad due to currency devaluation and discusses the growing popularity of non-traditional destinations like Mauritius for specific fields of study.

Kenya's ambitious affordable housing project, initiated under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, faces significant legal and financial challenges. The project aimed to build 500,000 housing units but has only achieved a fraction of this goal. The current administration under President William Ruto continues to push the project despite opposition to a mandatory housing levy. Legal rulings have halted the levy, citing constitutional violations. Critics argue the scheme disproportionately burdens workers already struggling with high living costs. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity advocate for a multi-faceted approach, including innovative financing and comprehensive urban planning, to address the housing crisis effectively.

A local government in Nigeria's Kano State spent US$28.8 million over eight years to sponsor 111,000 students in international universities across 14 countries, including the UK, China, and France. The funds also supported training for lecturers and postgraduate students. The initiative aimed to enhance educational outcomes and human capital development in Kano State. Nigeria remains a significant source of foreign students, with substantial spending on international education.

Women in East Africa's pastoral regions are crucial for livestock health, playing a key role in effective animal vaccination campaigns. Their involvement is essential for combating new diseases introduced by climate change, ensuring food and financial security for families. Despite cultural barriers, women are increasingly leading households and influencing resource allocation. Organizations like the International Livestock Research Institute and the International Development Research Centre, supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, are promoting women's participation in livestock health initiatives. These efforts are vital for community resilience against climate-induced risks.

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has awarded 45,000 scholarships to East African researchers since 1973, significantly impacting education and research in the region. The programme includes various scholarship formats and has produced 11,662 alumni, with Ethiopia and Kenya having the highest number of beneficiaries. Celebrations marking 50 years of DAAD's presence in East Africa highlighted the programme's role in fostering distinguished careers and institutional cooperation. The DAAD's support spans in-country scholarships, stays in Germany, institutional cooperation, and the harmonisation of the East African Common Higher Education Area. The DAAD, in collaboration with the Inter-University Council of East Africa, continues to enhance education quality and research, with initiatives like the Africa leadership programme and the African Centres of Excellence.

The lack of a culture for sharing scientific data in many African countries is hindering development opportunities. Scientists at a recent geospatial sciences conference in Nairobi emphasized the need for data-sharing mechanisms to avoid duplication and enhance research. Key challenges include the absence of frameworks to protect intellectual property and a general lack of trust. Initiatives like the Eastern Africa Forest Observatory are making strides in overcoming these challenges by developing a forest data-sharing policy framework. Increased funding and open access publishing are suggested as solutions to improve data dissemination.

More than 90% of students in Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda find bursaries helpful, but less than 30% have benefited from scholarships. Financial constraints are the main barrier to higher education, with most students relying on parental support. The quality of education facilities, particularly research infrastructure, is a concern. The survey, conducted by Education Sub-Saharan Africa (ESSA), highlights the limited access to government and philanthropy scholarships and the importance of ICT training for employment. Despite challenges, respondents are generally content with course content and teaching quality, and believe secondary education prepares students well for tertiary education.

African countries, including Nigeria, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Kenya, are major beneficiaries of the 2023 Banach Scholarships issued by Poland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA). The program, which aims to promote socio-economic progress in developing countries, received 3,587 applications from 34 countries. The scholarships cover tuition fees and provide a monthly stipend, with most recipients studying engineering, technology, natural, and social sciences at universities in Warsaw, Wrocław, Kraków, and Poznań.

The lack of a data sharing culture in many African countries is hindering the continent's development opportunities, according to scientists. Experts at a geospatial science conference in Nairobi, Kenya, highlighted the need for data sharing mechanisms and lamented the general lack of trust among countries, institutions, and individuals. Phoebe Oduor and Stephen Karimi emphasized the benefits of making data accessible and the importance of collaborative research over working in silos. The East African Forest Observatory, led by CIFOR, was cited as an example of an initiative that facilitates forest data sharing among countries to monitor and report on climate obligations.

Russia is set to open the Russian Centre for Open Education in Nairobi, Kenya, offering free Russian language courses to local students. The initiative aims to attract students for enrolment and provide them with an advantage in seeking study in Russia scholarships. This move is part of a broader strategy to establish 28 similar centres across Africa, following the example of China and Turkey. The announcement follows Vladimir Putin's revelation at the 2023 Russia-Africa Summit about plans to open Russian university campuses in African countries. The centres are part of efforts to foster academic and research cooperation between Russia and African nations.

A European Union-funded project, AgrGROW, aims to enhance agriculture entrepreneurship education at universities in Uganda and Malawi by integrating climate-smart practices and problem-based learning. The €900,000 initiative, supported by the EU's Erasmus+ programme, involves institutions like Makerere University, Bugema University, and Lilongwe University of Agriculture. The project seeks to create graduates capable of starting and growing climate-smart agribusinesses, with a focus on sustainability and innovation. Key partners include the University of Copenhagen and Häme University of Applied Sciences, which will facilitate methodology and capacity-building. The project will run until March 2026, with phases including planning, capacity-building, and curriculum implementation.

Russia will begin teaching Swahili, Amharic, and Yoruba in select Moscow schools starting September 2023 to strengthen ties with Africa amidst international isolation due to the Ukraine invasion. The initiative, part of a special program by the Institute of Asian and African Studies at Lomonosov Moscow State University, aims to develop specialists familiar with Africa's diverse cultures and economies. The move, announced during a Sputnik roundtable on Russia-Africa relations, has generated excitement in both regions and will make Russia the first European country to teach African languages in public schools.

With only three out of ten African students securing visas to study in Canada, racism by authorities is cited as the primary reason for high rejection rates. Awad Ibrahim, vice-provost for equity at the University of Ottawa, criticizes the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada for the declining numbers, highlighting the psychological and visible impacts of racism. Data shows significantly higher rejection rates for African students compared to other countries. Ibrahim calls for urgent reforms to address implicit biases and improve Canada's reputation among international African students.

The African academic and research community is not fully utilizing the opportunities of open-access book publishing, with South Africa being the only country actively engaging in this area. Dr Peter Makgwane and Dr Gagandeep Singh shared their insights on the advantages of open-access publishing and the process of writing scholarly books during a webinar hosted by the Association of African Universities and Taylor & Francis. The webinar aimed to provide African academics with knowledge on publishing technical books, covering topics such as book proposals, peer-review, copyrights, royalties, and fundraising for open access.

International education practitioners and researchers in Africa are advocating for new approaches to North-South collaborations, emphasizing the need for mutually beneficial partnerships. Dr. James Jowi and Professor Chika Sehoole propose the ACE (Aware, Connect, Empower) model to address historical imbalances and promote equality in higher education collaborations. They highlight the importance of awareness, intentional connections, and the African ubuntu philosophy to create more humane and inclusive partnerships. The academics call for strategies and policies to guide collaborations, focusing on inclusivity, mutuality, and respect, while addressing global challenges and sustainable development goals.

Scientists at a geospatial sciences conference in Nairobi highlighted the detrimental effects of a 'culture of secrecy' on scientific data sharing in Africa, which hampers development. The lack of frameworks for safe data sharing and protection of intellectual property rights creates reluctance among scientists and institutions. The Eastern Africa Forest Observatory is cited as a positive example, developing a data-sharing policy framework to monitor and report on forest health and climate obligations.

The lack of a culture for sharing scientific data in many African countries is hindering development opportunities. Scientists at a recent geospatial sciences conference in Nairobi emphasized the need for data-sharing mechanisms and highlighted the general lack of trust between countries, institutions, and individuals. Key figures like Phoebe Oduor and Stephen Karimi pointed out the challenges and potential solutions, including open access journals and collaborative research. The Eastern Africa Forest Observatory, led by the Center for International Forestry Research, is making strides in overcoming data-sharing challenges within conservation work by developing a forest data-sharing policy framework.

Nigerian students returning from Sudan are facing difficulties in getting placements at local universities due to the lack of academic transcripts and bureaucratic challenges. Despite government assurances from the Nigerian in Diaspora Commission and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, students are frustrated with the slow process. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is involved in the transfer process, but the high number of applicants and the need for interviews to assess suitability for degree programs are contributing to delays.

Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest global growth rate in professional course enrolments, driven by increasing demand for digital skills. Coursera's 2023 Global Skills Report highlights the region's rapid growth, with Nigeria leading in enrolments. The report emphasizes the need for investment in technology and data science skills, with Rwanda noted for its successful digital skills initiatives. The study underscores the correlation between higher skills proficiency and economic growth, advocating for workforce development to enhance employability and economic sustainability.

Women university student union leaders in Africa are calling for mentorship from successful women leaders to address challenges such as lack of experience, suppressed visibility, and tokenism in leadership roles. They face difficulties in having their voices heard and ideas implemented due to male-dominated environments and societal biases. The webinar hosted by UN Women and the Forum for African Women Vice-Chancellors highlighted the need for support systems, confidence-building, and institutional backing to empower young women leaders. Despite progress, gender disparities and stereotypes continue to hinder women's influence in academic settings. Senior women leaders are encouraged to support the younger generation to overcome societal stereotypes and succeed in leadership roles.

The number of African students receiving scholarships to study in Russian universities has increased by 150% over the past three years, with expectations to grow further to over 47,000 students by 2024. This initiative, part of Russia's strategy to strengthen ties with Africa amidst international isolation, was highlighted by President Vladimir Putin during the Second Summit and Russia–Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum. Russia plans to open campuses of leading universities in Africa and establish joint schools to promote Russian language and education standards. Additionally, an international Russian language organization will be launched in 2024 to foster cultural and educational cooperation.

The Indian government is set to open the Centre of Excellence in Information Technology in Namibia, a collaborative effort with the Namibian government. The institute, hosted by the Namibia University of Science of Technology in Windhoek, will offer ICT programs starting July 31. Managed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing, the project is financed by India's Foreign Affairs ministry. This initiative is part of India's broader strategy for transnational education and knowledge diplomacy. Similar campuses are being established in Tanzania and Uganda, with IIT Madras launching a campus in Zanzibar, Tanzania, in October.

Organizations promoting Russia as a study destination aim to leverage the upcoming Russia-Africa summit in St. Petersburg to secure educational cooperation deals with African governments. The summit, scheduled for July 27-28, is expected to enhance Russia's appeal as an educational destination, rivaling Europe and North America. Asya Manvelyan from Racus expressed optimism about the event's potential to increase African student enrollment in Russian universities. The summit will also address broader bilateral and multilateral issues, including trade, investment, and education. In Uganda, a Russian language center is being established at Makerere University, highlighting the focus on educational cooperation.

Africa hosts some of the world's oldest and youngest universities, with North Africa home to ancient institutions like Tunisia's Ez-Zitouna University and Morocco's University of Al-Qarawiyyin, while Sub-Saharan Africa has seen recent establishments such as the University of São Tomé and Príncipe. The Erudera project highlights the historical significance of these universities, noting their contributions to education and intellectualism. The study also contrasts with previous research, emphasizing the diverse and evolving landscape of higher education across the continent.

Georgia has seen a significant increase in international students, doubling its numbers in the past year due to the Ukraine crisis. Many African and Asian students, particularly from India, Morocco, Nigeria, and Algeria, have relocated to Georgia to continue their studies. The country offers affordable tuition fees and living costs, making it an attractive destination despite not having highly-ranked universities. The influx has notably benefited institutions like Caucasus University, which has seen over 500 students transfer from Ukraine.

Increasing investment in open-access publishing and seeking more research collaboration opportunities can help African academics get published more often, enhancing their career progression. Joint research efforts and open-access publishing bridge the information and knowledge access gap. Helena Hurd from Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group emphasizes the importance of choosing the right format for publication and targeting the intended audience. Open-access publishing offers benefits like greater dissemination and more opportunities for collaboration. However, the issue of funding for open access remains a challenge. Authors should avoid predatory publishers by thoroughly investigating their reputation and credibility.

British qualifications provider NCC Education is expanding its presence in Africa by opening its 11th partner study centre in Nigeria, in collaboration with PEFTI Film Institute. The new centre will offer UK qualifications and cater to Nigeria's growing theatre and media industry. The initiative aims to provide accessible education solutions and meet the robust demand for transnational education in Africa. NCC Education ensures quality through rigorous processes and has a significant global presence, including regional offices in China, Singapore, South Africa, and Malaysia.

The African research community is urged to focus on demand-driven research that informs policy-making and impacts society. Professor Richard Mkandawire of the Alliance for African Partnership highlights the need for research to be relevant and transformative. The article discusses the importance of restructuring academic incentives to prioritize impactful research over high-impact journal publications. It also emphasizes the role of funders and the necessity for researchers to engage with policy-makers and the public. The Alliance for African Partnership is actively engaging with regional bodies like the Southern African Development Community and the African Union Commission to align research with development priorities.

A new study by Education Sub-Saharan Africa (ESSA) addresses faculty shortages in African universities, recommending measures such as ending the duplication of academic programs, adopting contractual recruitment models for non-technical staff, and increasing postgraduate enrolment while capping undergraduate admissions. The report highlights the need for regional partnerships, innovative pedagogy, and gender mainstreaming in curricula. It also discusses the benefits of part-time faculty and the introduction of 'Professor Emeritus' positions to leverage retired professors' expertise. Examples from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and South Africa illustrate various strategies to improve faculty capacity and quality in higher education.

The World Bank-funded Eastern and Southern Africa Higher Education Centers of Excellence (ACE II) face challenges in commercialising research and innovations due to weak university-industry linkages and a nascent innovation culture. Despite contributing significantly to Sustainable Development Goals, particularly quality education, the centres struggle with bureaucratic bottlenecks, lack of infrastructure, and insufficient policy frameworks. Leaders from the 24 centres discussed the need for commercialisation offices, IP tools, and better mentorship for students. The centres have made strides in sustainability by enrolling more fee-paying students and supporting female students. The ACE II project, which started in 2016, has enrolled thousands of postgraduate students and generated significant external revenue, with additional funding approved to continue the initiative in Southern Africa.

A new EU-funded project, DigiGrad Africa, aims to enhance the quality and relevance of graduate training and research in Africa, addressing the shortage of academic staff and researchers. The initiative, a partnership between ANIE and Obreal Global, is funded under the EU's Erasmus+ programme and will support postgraduate training in eight African universities. The project focuses on digitalisation and internationalisation, building staff capacity, and creating a network of early-career researchers. It involves universities from Kenya, South Sudan, Burundi, Ghana, and four European countries. Key outcomes include strategy documents, training programs, and a virtual postgraduate student training programme.

Egyptian universities are preparing to enroll Nigerian students who fled Sudan due to conflict. The Nigerian Embassy in Cairo is coordinating with Egypt's Central Administration for Foreign Students Affairs (WAFEDEN) to facilitate the admission of these students. Interested students must express their intent to enroll by June to join the September 2023 intake. The embassy clarified that applicants would not qualify for Egyptian government scholarships and would likely join non-state universities. This initiative also includes Egyptian students returning from conflict zones in Ukraine and Sudan.

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras will open its first international campus in Zanzibar, Tanzania, in October, starting with 70 students. The campus will initially offer programs in data science and artificial intelligence. This move is part of India's broader strategy to internationalize its education system and attract more international students, with further campuses planned in Abu Dhabi and Kuala Lumpur. The decision to choose Zanzibar is influenced by its historical and current significance as a trade hub and international business center.

Universities in Africa are struggling to fully implement digitalisation and ICT in their operations, a challenge exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The DigiGrad project, funded by the European Union's Erasmus+ programme, aims to address these challenges by enhancing postgraduate training and research through internationalisation and digitalisation. The project involves partnerships between African universities in Kenya, South Sudan, Burundi, and Ghana, and European institutions from the Netherlands, Italy, Belgium, and Spain. Key stakeholders emphasize the importance of international collaboration and the need for holistic approaches to address the diverse needs of participating universities.

East African universities need to recruit over 35,500 lecturers to meet desired student-to-teacher ratios and address faculty shortages exacerbated by retirements and job changes. A survey across 133 universities in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan highlights significant gaps, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania. Gender disparities in faculty ratios are also notable, with South Sudan and Burundi performing poorly. The COVID-19 pandemic further strained faculty resources, impacting research and teaching models. Recommendations include better data management, investment in digital infrastructure, and private sector involvement to support faculty needs.

The Cape Town Statement on Fostering Research Integrity through Fairness and Equity aims to create a more equitable and inclusive research environment, particularly benefiting African researchers. The statement, which includes 20 recommendations, seeks to address economic, social, and capacity barriers in research collaborations. Experts like Francis Kombe and Dr. Lyn Horn emphasize the moral and ethical obligations of researchers to uphold these guidelines. The statement, although not legally binding, is expected to influence future research practices and partnerships. Concerns about gender balance and funding equity were raised by Professor Anthony Kibe, while Brenda Odera suggested the need for an 'African statement' to incorporate diverse cultural perspectives.

Thousands of Nigerian students evacuated from war-torn Sudan are set to complete their studies at home with government support. The Nigerian in Diaspora Commission is coordinating with local universities to ensure the continuation of education for the estimated 5,000 students. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has created a division to facilitate this process. However, the evacuation has faced challenges, including allegations of extortion by Nigerian embassy staff in Khartoum and difficulties in rescuing undocumented individuals. The conflict in Sudan has affected students from multiple countries, including Nigeria.

India’s National Forensic Sciences University has launched its first overseas campus in Jinja, Uganda, in partnership with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces. This marks a significant step in India's internationalization strategy, particularly in transnational education (TNE). The initiative, supported by India's External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to meet the high demand for forensic science programs among African students. The move is part of a broader strategy to diversify student recruitment in strategic foreign markets, with a focus on Africa and Asia.

Hungary is becoming an increasingly popular destination for African students due to high study visa approval rates and affordable education. The Education Hungary consortium, comprising four universities, along with government scholarships under the Stipendium Hungaricum scheme, has been instrumental in this trend. The consortium's efforts, supported by Hungarian embassies, have led to a significant increase in international student enrollment, with over 34,800 students in the 2021-2022 academic year. The universities offer world-class education at affordable tuition fees, making Hungary an attractive alternative to Western Europe, North America, and Australia.

Indian universities, particularly the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), are planning to establish international branch campuses in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia as part of an internationalization drive. The University Grants Commission is encouraging this expansion, citing the large Indian diaspora and the wide range of programs offered by over 1,000 Indian universities. However, the absence of necessary regulations currently hinders this initiative. The IITs have received requests to set up campuses in countries like Tanzania, Egypt, UAE, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Thailand. The number of international students in India has slightly declined, partly due to limited employment opportunities for graduates.

Kenyan students in Finland face potential expulsion due to unpaid tuition and accommodation fees, a responsibility of the County Government of Uasin Gishu under a tripartite agreement. The county is accused of misappropriating $4.9 million deposited by parents into an education trust fund. Efforts are underway to negotiate fee extensions with Finnish universities and secure loans for parents. The scandal has prompted forensic investigations by national anti-corruption agencies.

Universities in Africa are encouraged to establish digital research data repositories to archive important information, complementing open-access publishing and boosting the visibility of academics. Such repositories prevent research duplication, ensure quality control, and facilitate data reuse. Experts from various institutions, including Stellenbosch University and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, highlight the benefits of well-maintained digital repositories. The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and international organizations like UNESCO and the European Union advocate for open-access publishing to enhance research collaborations and societal benefits, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.

Appolinaire Djikeng, a molecular biologist with over 20 years of experience, has been appointed as the first African director-general of the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) and senior director of livestock-based systems at the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). Djikeng aims to enhance research and innovation to improve livestock health and socio-economic development in Africa. He emphasizes the importance of science in driving sustainable development and urges African leaders to support and fund scientific research. Djikeng's appointment is seen as a significant milestone for African science and leadership.

A consortium led by the University of Cambridge has secured a US$35 million grant from Bill and Melinda Gates Agricultural Innovations for a five-year research project in Africa, aimed at improving crop yields without chemical fertilizers. The project, which involves nine American and European universities, has raised concerns over the limited participation of African institutions, potentially breaching guidelines on equitable research partnerships. The initiative will focus on six staple crops and aims to enhance smallholder farmer livelihoods. Critics argue that local researchers should be more involved to ensure the project's success and ethical integrity.

Universities in Northern Cyprus, also known as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, are intensifying their recruitment of international students, particularly targeting Asia and Africa. Despite the region's controversial status and lack of international recognition, institutions like Cyprus International University are promoting internationally recognized degrees, low tuition fees, and scholarships. The university highlights partnerships with UK and European universities and offers a simplified visa process for most nationalities. However, some countries, such as Nigeria, have raised concerns over the safety of their students in the region.

Russia continues to target African students through social media recruitment campaigns despite the recent death of a Zambian student fighting in Ukraine. The country promotes itself as an ideal destination for medical and health-related degrees, offering affordable tuition and studies in English and French. EduRussia has sponsored numerous posts to attract African undergraduates, highlighting the global recognition of its degrees. Experts note the appeal of low tuition fees and post-study work opportunities but express concerns about safety and the lack of scholarship information.

Benin, the Gambia, and Ivory Coast have received a €1.5 million grant from the EDCTP to enhance the capacity of research ethics committees and implement the RHInnO software, a cloud-based platform for standardizing ethical reviews of research. EthiXpert, the NGO supporting the project, will also upgrade the software. The platform is currently used in several African countries and has improved efficiency, transparency, and management of research ethics reviews. The African Union's vision 2063 emphasizes the need for harmonization of health research ethics to accelerate medical interventions in Africa.

Kenya has seen a significant increase in high school pupils qualifying for university admission, with over 173,000 students achieving the required grade C+ and above in 2022, compared to 145,000 in 2021. This surge has raised concerns over potential cheating, as the number of candidates scoring an A grade also increased notably. The Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service indicates that there may be more qualified students than available university places. Joseph Njogu, a higher education consultant, suggests that many may opt for TVET diplomas instead. The senate committee on education, led by Joe Nyutu, plans to investigate the exam results amid public skepticism, while Education Minister Ezekiel Machogu denies any cheating.

In 2018, Kenya's government launched an ambitious affordable housing project under President Uhuru Kenyatta, aiming to build 500,000 homes in five years. However, due to funding issues, high mortgage rates, and lack of land, only 3% of the target has been met. The project, now under President William Ruto, faces legal challenges and public opposition due to a mandatory housing tax. Critics argue the tax is discriminatory and burdensome, especially for low-income workers. The courts have ruled against the tax, and organizations like Habitat for Humanity call for a multifaceted approach to address housing needs, including innovative financing and urban planning.

The number of African students in Turkey has surged to over 60,000, driven by Turkish government scholarships. Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu emphasized education as a cornerstone of Turkey's cooperation with Africa, predicting further growth. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan highlighted Turkey's diplomatic efforts, supported by institutions like Turkish Airlines and the Maarif Foundation. The strategy aligns with Turkey's soft power approach, similar to other global powers. The number of international students in Turkey has also seen significant growth, with Egypt and Nigeria leading from Africa.

The African Crop Science Society (ACSS), a 30-year-old research association, is facing challenges due to low membership, affecting its operations despite its role in publishing the African Crop Science Journal. Luisa Santos, the society's president, calls for more scientists to join and help revitalize the society. Plans for 2023 include a membership drive, updating the members' database, setting up an online payment system, and preparing for the next ACSS conference in 2024. The society's importance is emphasized in the context of climate change, sustainable development, and reducing hunger. Key figures in the scientific community stress the need for local researchers to support and participate in such initiatives to advance African science.

Russian universities have agreed to receive payments directly from South African students, bypassing the education agency Racus. This decision could resolve issues that began in August last year when the Mpumalanga Provincial government canceled its contract with Racus. The students faced problems such as being denied access to classes and accommodation. Despite the South African prime minister's intervention, the universities initially refused to deal directly with the students. However, from December, some universities, including Moscow Aviation Institute and Saratov State Medical University, began sending invoices directly to the students. The South African embassy in Russia is handling the outstanding payments, with Rands 28 million already processed for tuition and accommodation fees for 105 students.

Indonesia is actively promoting educational diplomacy in East Africa by establishing partnerships between its universities and African counterparts. The initiative includes scholarships, staff and student exchanges, and joint research programs. The Indonesian embassy in Nairobi is playing a key role in this effort, targeting countries like Kenya, Uganda, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The aim is to enhance relations and increase the number of African students studying in Indonesia.

Authorities in Kenya have approved the acquisition of Hillcrest Schools by Braeburn Group of International Schools, with the condition that 97% of Hillcrest's 180 employees be retained. This decision counters Hillcrest's initial plan to retrench all employees post-takeover. The Competition Authority of Kenya emphasized the need to protect public interest and employee rights, allowing only five employees to be affected by the takeover. The acquisition will significantly increase Braeburn's market share in the British curriculum segment in Kenya, making it one of the largest education groups in East Africa.