The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology has joined forces with four other universities Simon Fraser University, the University of Dar es Salaam, Sokoine University of Agriculture, and Aga Khan University to establish a collaborative partnership focused on academic research and initiatives aimed at addressing the climate crisis.

This partnership was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on November 11, 2024, during a conference centered on Water, Health, and Data Analytics in a Changing Climate. The collaboration seeks to leverage the combined expertise of its members to tackle pressing climate challenges.

Prof. Daniel Mushi, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, who served as the guest of honor at the event, emphasized the significance of this collaboration in generating global solutions.

 “We have high expectations that, after your deliberations, you will come up with workable solutions to address global challenges such as climate change, declining ecosystem health, and increasing demand for water resources,” stated Prof. Mushi.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor  Academic, Research and Innovation Prof. Anthony Mshandete also highlighted that the conference and consortium present opportunities to advance the mission of developing African scientists and leaders equipped with the tools and vision necessary to tackle pressing societal challenges.

“We are particularly inspired by the chance to collaborate with universities of such high caliber, each bringing unique strengths that complement and expand our own,” 

The consortium plans to co-sponsor various academic events, including symposia and an annual conference, to facilitate knowledge exchange and discuss innovative solutions. Additionally, it aims to develop joint programs that provide students access to diverse resources and expertise from all participating institutions. The partnership will be governed by a Joint Institutional Steering Committee, which will convene annually to assess progress and explore new collaboration opportunities.