Background

Internationalisation is a key objective in the University of Bern’s Strategy 2030. With this in mind, the University Executive Board decided in 2023 that cooperation with African universities and researchers would be one of the focal points.

Our University has fostered relationships with researchers in Africa for some time, as underlined by initiatives such as the NCCR North-South (National Centre of Competence in Research, 2001 to 2013) and its successor, the Centre for Development and Environment (CDE). The Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine has also undertaken numerous projects on African health issues. The Wyss Academy for Nature established a hub in East Africa, in particular Kenya and Madagascar. Furthermore, we also acknowledge that a significant fraction of our lecturers and students have African heritage and are involved in networks with many African scientists and universities.

Finally, one should also pay attention to African youthfulness. More than 60% are under the age of 25, presenting a pool of highly ambitious individuals eager to contribute to the global academic community.

“The Initiative Afrique integrates activities and relationships in connection with Africa and thus encourages synergies and cooperation.” Prof. Dr. Hugues Abriel, Vice-Rector for Research

Rector Virginia Richter reflects on the past year at the University of Berne and looks ahead to 2025. She finds collaboration with Africa very important and mentions the two long-term research projects “Africa-Europe Clusters of Research Excellence (CoRE)”, in partnership with The Guild network of European universities (The Guild) and its partner organisation, the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA). For the complete interview: https://youtu.be/tvWG4mpz6eU