Enroll Now: Capacity Development Course for Innovation in Africa

Lund University is offering a graduate-level capacity development course from 2022 to 2025 to advance the use of science, technology, and innovation (STI) indicators in Africa. This initiative supports the continental vision outlined in Agenda 2063, ‘The Africa We Want’, and is part of the African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development’s (AUDA-NEPAD) African Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators (ASTII) Initiative.

About the Course

The course explores how innovation can transform economies and enhance social resilience, particularly in low-income countries. Participants will study why some developing nations advance rapidly while others fall behind, focusing on innovation’s role in sustainable development. The curriculum includes theoretical and historical perspectives on innovation policies, industrial policy, technology transfer, and more, with a practical application to participants’ current contexts.

Course Content & Timeline

• April 9 – May 4, 2025: Online introduction, including lectures, reading, and short assignments.
• May 6 – May 23, 2025: Intensive in-person sessions in Lund, Sweden.
• Last week of June 2025: Final seminar and online examination.

Participants will examine various aspects of economic development, including national innovation systems, market-state relations, and greening strategies. The course aims to help participants identify and implement effective policies and public investments for innovation and sustainable development.

Participants

The course is designed for:

• Professionals involved with the ASTII initiative or in innovation policy and management.
• Mid-to upper-level public officials across Africa.
• Individuals ideally aged 30-55, with a focus on applicants from low-income countries and achieving gender balance.

Costs

Sida will cover:

• Participation costs, including study tours.
• Hotel accommodation.
• Meal allowances for self-cooked meals.
• International travel to and from Sweden.

Participants are responsible for their own vaccinations, COVID tests, and personal expenses, including visa fees. Air tickets purchased by AUDA-NEPAD on behalf of Lund University are non-refundable if cancelled.

Application Process

Applications close on November 3, 2024. Applicants must submit:

• A CV with relevant professional experience and university studies.
• A Motivation Letter using the Lund University template.
• A Letter of Recommendation from an employer or representative.
• An English language certificate (if applicable).
• Any other relevant merits.

Application deadline is November 3, 2024. Apply here! 

Course Partners

This course is supported by the Lund University Department of Commissioned Education, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), and the African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD).

• Lund University School of Economics and Management – lusem.lu.se
• Lund University Department of Commissioned Education
• SIDA – sida.se
• AUDA-NEPAD  – nepad.org

For more details, visit the website.