This study is about foresight in science, technology and innovation (STI) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). It was commissioned by the Scinnovent Centre on behalf of the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) to identify whether and analyze how SSA countries are engaging in and with STI foresight (STIF) to inform research and innovation (R&I) priority setting […]
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The Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) held its annual Masterclass on November 16-17, 2021, focusing on “Public Engagement in Research and Innovation.” This virtual forum gathered 172 participants from 30 countries, including representatives from Science Granting Councils (SGCs), researchers, government officials, and partner agencies. The event explored strategies for increasing public involvement in science and […]
Read More… from Public Engagement in Research and Innovation
On March 30, 2021, the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) hosted its annual Masterclass on the theme of “Ethics and Integrity in Research and Innovation,” bringing together stakeholders from across the research and innovation sectors. This year’s virtual session welcomed 82 participants from 22 countries, representing Science Granting Councils (SGCs). The event aimed to address […]
Read More… from Ethics and Integrity in Research and Innovation
The project was lead by The Scinnovent Centre, collaborating with Science Africa in Kenya and the African Association of Universities (AAU) in Ghana. This initiative, aims to enhance SGCs’ knowledge management and strategic communication capabilities to foster better science and technology policy-making across the continent 1. Communication with the Private Sector TrainingIn March 2018, the […]
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Funding models for research and innovation are inherently linked to debates on economic development, technology catch-up, and leapfrogging, with innovation considered a key transmission mechanism. It is widely accepted that a nation’s economic growth depends on its capacity to educate, innovate, and build. This project examines new approaches to funding research and innovation in Africa, […]
Read More… from Funding and Financing Research and Innovation
The Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) aimed to strengthen the capacities of science granting councils in sub-Saharan Africa to support research and evidence-based policies for economic and social development. It was jointly funded by DFID, IDRC, NRF, and SIDA, and worked with 15 African countries, including Botswana, Kenya, and Zambia. The initiative held high-level Annual […]
Read More… from Open Science in Research and Innovation for Development
The 2017 Annual Forum on “Effective Public-Private Partnerships in Research and Innovation” was held in Livingstone, Zambia, from November 22–23, 2017, bringing together 120 participants from 25 countries. Key figures included Heads of Research Councils, researchers, policymakers, private sector actors, and civil society representatives. The forum was inaugurated by Zambia’s Minister for Education, Prof. Nkandu […]
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Innovation plays a crucial role in driving economic growth, competitiveness, and societal progress. Innovation systems, which consist of various organizations, policies, and institutions, are essential for fostering innovation. […]
This project examines the challenges and opportunities in technology transfer, knowledge exchange, and research commercialization across Africa, with a focus on strengthening public-private partnerships, enhancing innovation ecosystems, and improving local pharmaceutical manufacturing. […]
This project examines the challenges and opportunities in technology transfer, knowledge exchange, and research commercialization across Africa, with a focus on strengthening public-private partnerships, enhancing innovation ecosystems, and improving local pharmaceutical manufacturing. […]
This study is about foresight in science, technology and innovation (STI) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). It was commissioned by the Scinnovent Centre on behalf of the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) to identify whether and analyze how SSA countries are engaging in and with STI foresight (STIF) to inform research and innovation (R&I) priority setting and STI policy-making in general. The study is intended to inform the SGCI of international good approaches/practices of institutionalizing STIF in the countries, and what the SGCI can do to help build capacities for STIF. It is premised on the view that foresighting, which is about ‘strategic intelligence’ and ‘sense-making’ to identify and imagine possible futures, is critical in steering investments in R&I and STI policy to focus on long-term sustainable development aspirations such as those in Agenda 2063 of the African Union (AU) and the United Nations Agenda 2030 and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The study is exploratory, conducted using a variety of methods. First, a comprehensive review of literature has been undertaken in order to provide conceptual clarity on what constitutes foresight in general and STIF in particular. The review also identified a number of international practices by selected countries that have institutionalized or are practicing STIF.
The Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) held its annual Masterclass on November 16-17, 2021, focusing on “Public Engagement in Research and Innovation.” This virtual forum gathered 172 participants from 30 countries, including representatives from Science Granting Councils (SGCs), researchers, government officials, and partner agencies. The event explored strategies for increasing public involvement in science and technology, sharing experiences, and addressing barriers to broadening the public reach of research.
Dr. Konosoang Sobane, from the Human Sciences Research Council in South Africa, delivered the keynote presentation, which addressed the current status and challenges of public engagement in African research. Following her presentation, a panel of African SGC representatives—including TETFund (Nigeria), NCST (Rwanda), and NRF (South Africa)—alongside global partners like the UK Collaborative on Research and Innovation (UKCRI) and the Netherlands Research Council (NWO), provided insights on the complexities of involving the public in research initiatives. Representatives from Botswana, Uganda, Senegal, Kenya, and Namibia reinforced these discussions with additional African perspectives.
The specific objectives of the masterclass were to:
On March 30, 2021, the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) hosted its annual Masterclass on the theme of “Ethics and Integrity in Research and Innovation,” bringing together stakeholders from across the research and innovation sectors. This year’s virtual session welcomed 82 participants from 22 countries, representing Science Granting Councils (SGCs). The event aimed to address current challenges, share experiences, and develop actionable strategies for promoting ethical standards in research across Africa.
During the event, participants discussed how the ethical landscape in research is constantly evolving, while many Research Ethics Committees (RECs) appear slow to adapt. This gap risks leaving African researchers out of crucial conversations on international standards. The group noted specific ethical issues needing more attention, such as managing conflicts of interest and preventing misconduct across research phases, from proposal submissions to commercialization.
The keynote address, delivered by Dr. Paul Ndebele, a leading figure in research ethics, was followed by a panel featuring representatives from Botswana, Senegal, and Burkina Faso. They shared insights on the practical realities of fostering ethics and integrity in their research environments. Representatives from the African Academy of Sciences (AAS), the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) also contributed perspectives on how African researchers can better align with international standards while addressing local challenges.
The project was lead by The Scinnovent Centre, collaborating with Science Africa in Kenya and the African Association of Universities (AAU) in Ghana. This initiative, aims to enhance SGCs’ knowledge management and strategic communication capabilities to foster better science and technology policy-making across the continent
1. Communication with the Private Sector Training
In March 2018, the Scinnovent Centre in conjunction with the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), the Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Research Organization (STIPRO) and the Association of African Universities (AAU) under the auspices of the Science Granting Councils Initiative in Africa (SGCI) organized a regional training workshop for Science Granting Councils on the theme “Communication with the Private Sector.” The overall objective of the training was to enhance the capacity of the Councils to catalyze and facilitate knowledge exchange and collaborative partnerships amongst actors in the innovation system, particularly the academia and private sector.
2. Knowledge Management & Communication Strategies Virtual Creative Workshop
A two-day virtual workshop took place from November 10–11, 2020, bringing together 34 stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, including science council members, scientists, ministry officials, and partner organizations. Among the attendees were representatives from the SGCI Initiative Management Team, the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO), and funders like the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). The workshop’s importance was to enable councils to address communication gaps, improve knowledge management, and integrate gender inclusion strategies into their operations. To allow councils to track and report scientific developments, ensuring that research informs policy and benefits society broadly.
3. Re-design and revamping of the SGCI website
We worked closely with NRF and IMT on re-designing and revamping the SGCI website.
Tweet Activity: Tweet Activity analytics for SGCIAfrica
4. Regional Meetings and the Annual Forum
Supported Councils in planning and convening regional meetings and the annual fora.
Blog Articles:
5. The art of influencing policy change workshop
Held on 25th -27th April, 2022 Mombasa, Kenya. Bringing together representatives from various science granting councils (SGCs) across Africa. The workshop aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to effectively translate scientific research outcomes into actionable policy advice for governments and stakeholders. This capacity-building event marked a significant step toward strengthening the role of SGCs in guiding evidence-based policy-making across the continent. The workshop provided an environment for participants to learn essential strategies to bridge the divide between research and policy.
Training Manual (English): The Art of Influencing Policy Change
Training Manual (French): L’art D’influencer le changement de politique
Training Manual (Portuguese): A arte de Influenciar a Mudança Política
Photo Book: The Art of Influencing Policy Change
Policy Brief: Solar-Powered Irrigation Systems: Adopting a Nexus approach for Farmers to Increase Yields and Incomes
Policy Brief: Addressing Human–Wildlife Conflicts for Sustainable Socio-Economic Development in Tanzania
Policy Brief: Botswana National Innovation Survey (2013-2016)
Policy Brief: Approche Socio-Anthropologique des Connaissances, Attitudes et Comportements des Abidjanais Face au Coronavirus)
Funding models for research and innovation are inherently linked to debates on economic development, technology catch-up, and leapfrogging, with innovation considered a key transmission mechanism. It is widely accepted that a nation’s economic growth depends on its capacity to educate, innovate, and build.
This project examines new approaches to funding research and innovation in Africa, highlighting efforts to improve efficiency and effectiveness in response to decreasing funding from traditional sources. It finds that the importance of research and innovation is rated as medium to high in most African countries, with institutional and policy provisions for science, technology, and innovation (STI) increasing. New funding models, such as partnerships, co-funding, and multi-disciplinary approaches, have been developed to optimize resource use.
However, challenges like insufficient political will, lack of implementation plans, and uncoordinated STI efforts hinder progress. The project offers recommendations for science granting councils, governments, and other sectors to leverage global resources and strengthen funding throughout the research and innovation process.
Research Paper: New Approaches for Funding Research and Innovation in Africa
The Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) aimed to strengthen the capacities of science granting councils in sub-Saharan Africa to support research and evidence-based policies for economic and social development. It was jointly funded by DFID, IDRC, NRF, and SIDA, and worked with 15 African countries, including Botswana, Kenya, and Zambia. The initiative held high-level Annual Forums to address strategic issues in science and policy, amplifying African voices in international discussions.
In 2019, the forum focused on “Open Science in Research and Innovation for Development.” Delegates observed that while open science was not a new concept in Africa, emerging technologies and new development priorities had added new dimensions to this concept. Many African Science Granting Councils were already collaborating bilaterally and multilaterally, sharing resources, infrastructure, and skills, promoting openness, and facilitating peer learning.
The forum also highlighted the transition to a “knowledge society,” where innovation was driven by knowledge rather than natural resources, with the digital revolution playing a key role. However, the digital era brought challenges like information overload, requiring information to be shared in an understandable form. Delegates agreed that addressing complex development challenges required society to accept uncertainty and organize effectively to mitigate risks.
The 2017 Annual Forum on “Effective Public-Private Partnerships in Research and Innovation” was held in Livingstone, Zambia, from November 22–23, 2017, bringing together 120 participants from 25 countries. Key figures included Heads of Research Councils, researchers, policymakers, private sector actors, and civil society representatives. The forum was inaugurated by Zambia’s Minister for Education, Prof. Nkandu Luo, who emphasized the importance of research in policy-making and urged the scientific community to engage more proactively with policymakers. She also criticized the private sector’s limited role in national development, calling for stronger partnerships to translate research into practical technologies.
The forum, guided by a commissioned paper by Prof. Banji Oyeyinka, addressed key issues such as research prioritization, institutional governance, funding models, and political economy contexts. Discussions highlighted the challenges of aligning public and private sector research priorities, the need for improved institutional governance, and the importance of mobilizing domestic resources for research and innovation. Lessons from countries like the Netherlands and Costa Rica were shared, alongside experiences from Africa.
The forum concluded with the recognition that public-private partnerships are vital for advancing research and innovation in Africa. Participants agreed to continue the conversation and encouraged the Science Granting Councils to take a leading role in fostering such partnerships. Recommendations were made for further engagement and action by relevant stakeholders.
Policy Brief: Towards Effective Public-Private Partnerships in Research and Innovation: A Perspective for African Science Granting Councils
Summary Report: Effective Public – Private Partnerships in Research and Innovation: Summary Report of the Annual Forum 2017
Innovation plays a crucial role in driving economic growth, competitiveness, and societal progress. Innovation systems, which consist of various organizations, policies, and institutions, are essential for fostering innovation. These systems support knowledge generation, diffusion, and the development of necessary infrastructure. At a national level, innovation systems bring together governments, universities, research institutions, and the private sector to encourage technological advancements, while regional systems focus on localized collaboration.
Recent trends in innovation systems highlight the increasing role of digital transformation, with technologies like AI, and big data accelerating the innovation process. Sustainability has also become a key priority, with many projects focusing on green technologies and environmentally-friendly solutions. The rise of open innovation has led to increased external collaboration, while globalization has expanded the reach of innovation efforts, enabling cross-border networks to tackle global challenges such as climate change and public health.
To strengthen innovation systems, it is essential to increase investment in research and development, encourage greater collaboration between public and private sectors, and establish supportive regulatory environments. Building innovation networks and investing in education and skills development, particularly in STEM fields, will also be critical for sustaining long-term innovation growth. By addressing these challenges, innovation systems can unlock new opportunities for economic and social progress
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Many African countries, through their development plans, have prioritized access to affordable Healthcare services. However, the realization of these aspirations has been constrained due to the high costs of imported medicines, which not only increase the health burden but also have negative implications on access and affordability of medicines. Affordability is important since up to 90% of the population purchases medicines through out-of-pocket payments. As a result, many African countries have started initiatives to promote local pharmaceutical manufacturing, to address the issue of high costs of imported medicines and to tap into additional benefits such as, creation of employment opportunities, technology and skills transfer and enhancing intra-Africa trade.
Technology transfer, knowledge exchange, and commercialization are essential for Africa’s development. However, the mechanisms connecting public research organizations to the private sector remain underdeveloped. Science Granting Councils (SGCs) play a key role in bridging this gap but face challenges such as limited funding, inadequate commercialization infrastructure, and a lack of expertise in intellectual property and technology transfer.
The report identifies critical barriers, including the absence of continuous dialogue between research institutions and industry, insufficient research funding, and weak policy frameworks. To address these, it recommends creating platforms for ongoing collaboration, developing innovative funding models, improving commercialization infrastructure, building skills in technology transfer and intellectual property management, fostering regional cooperation, and introducing supportive government policies and incentives.
By implementing these recommendations, Africa can strengthen its research-industry partnerships, enhance technology transfer, and create a more robust innovation ecosystem
Report: Strengthening Research – Industry Collaborations in Africa: Rapid Evidence Assessment
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