The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) hosted a high-level visit from Dr. Ntuli A. Kapologwe, Director General of the East, Central and Southern Africa Health Community (ECSAHC), in a move aimed at strengthening regional collaboration in research, innovation, and knowledge exchange.

Dr. Kapologwe was received by NM-AIST Vice Chancellor, Professor Maulilio Kipanyula, who welcomed the visit as a significant step toward fostering strategic partnerships between the two institutions.

During the meeting, Professor Kipanyula highlighted key areas of potential collaboration, including the development of joint research and innovation programs, with a focus on commercializing intellectual property and promoting start-ups, spin-offs, and joint ventures.

He emphasized NM-AIST’s commitment to excellence through international research collaborations that serve as hubs for customized, society- and industry-driven knowledge and technology transfer. The Vice Chancellor also underscored the need for shared research infrastructure, proposing the establishment of regional science and technology parks, industry hubs, and eco-parks.

“NM-AIST remains committed to its Pan-African and regional mission of producing top-tier human capital and addressing societal and industrial challenges through technological advancement,” Professor Kipanyula said.

In his remarks, Dr. Kapologwe commended NM-AIST for its strong institutional framework and its strategic “5D” focus areas, which align closely with ECSAHC’s priorities. He expressed interest in expanding programmatic collaboration in fields such as nutrition, water, health, life sciences, and environmental sustainability.

Dr. Kapologwe also announced the potential for internship opportunities for NM-AIST scholars within ECSAHC and its network of regional and international partners.

The visit concluded with a shared commitment to deepen institutional ties and develop impactful, cross-sectoral initiatives that address pressing regional development challenges.