Newsletter
Join me on a retrospective journey through the past year at the MCAA Africa chapter. From groundbreaking conferences that positioned us on the African innovation map to events that enhanced community collaboration, we have made significant advances. Explore how our 140 members have flourished and catch a glimpse of the promising opportunities that await us for further impact in the coming years.
Reflecting on my first year as the MCAA Africa Chapter Chair, it is both humbling and inspiring to see how far we have come. With the dedication and contributions of our members and the support from the MCAA board members, MCAA Africa has grown to encompass a vibrant community of 140 individuals who are united by their passion for advancing research, collaboration, and innovation across the continent.
One of the significant milestones we achieved during this year was our active representation in prestigious conferences across Africa. These endeavors not only showcased our commitment to excellence but also allowed us to make meaningful connections on a larger scale. One notable instance was our participation in the AU-EU Innovation Agenda meeting held in Nairobi, Kenya. This provided us with a platform to engage with influential stakeholders, exchange groundbreaking ideas, and contribute to the advancement of collaborative research initiatives. Similarly, our involvement in the World Academy Forum in South Africa and the conferences for Rectors, Vice Chancellors, and Presidents of African universities not only reflected our commitment to academic excellence, but also placed MCAA Africa in the spotlight within the African academic landscape.
Looking ahead to the next year, our aspirations are even more ambitious. We are eager to expand our reach and impact through institutional engagements that will enable us to foster stronger ties with universities, research institutions, and governmental bodies. By partnering with these key players, we aim to facilitate greater access to resources, funding, and collaborative opportunities for our members, thereby propelling the African research ecosystem to new heights.
Over the past year, our commitment to empowering our members has been evident through the myriad of impactful events we have organized. From enlightening webinars led by industry leaders to handson workshops designed to enhance practical skills, our calendar has been brimming with opportunities for growth. These events have not only strengthened our members' professional acumen but have also served as platforms for networking and forging lasting collaborations. The enthusiastic participation and feedback from our members have been a testament to the value they have gained from these initiatives.
Despite the remarkable strides we have taken, it is important to acknowledge that our journey is not without its challenges. One significant obstacle we have encountered is the geographical diversity of our membership. This diversity, while enriching, also presents logistical challenges when it comes to organizing physical events that require members to travel. The varied terrain and distances make it challenging to create an inclusive environment that fosters in-person interactions and engagements. To address this, we must creatively leverage technology and explore innovative solutions to bridge the gap and ensure that all members feel connected and included.
Another pressing challenge we have identified is the issue of member engagement. While we are a community of 140 talented individuals, it is evident that some members have been less active than others. This lack of engagement not only limits the potential impact of our collective efforts but also hinders the exchange of ideas and collaborative opportunities that lie at the core of our mission.
To tackle these challenges head-on, we are developing comprehensive strategies aimed at boosting both virtual and physical engagement among our members:
Virtual Engagement Initiatives: Given the geographical constraints, we recognize the value of leveraging virtual platforms to connect members across different locations. We will focus on hosting more webinars, online panel discussions, and virtual networking events. These activities not only eliminate the need for physical presence but also provide a convenient way for members to participate actively regardless of their location.
In summary, by adopting these approaches, we are confident that we can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and cohesiveness within MCAA Africa. By addressing geographical barriers through virtual engagement and incentivizing participation, we aim to harness the full potential of our diverse membership and continue propelling MCAA Africa Chapter to new heights of excellence.
Precious Ekwere
Chair of the MCAA Africa Chapter
africa.chapter@mariecuriealumni.eu