The University of Turku hosted African Research and Education Day on 13 November. The event marked the final seminar of the Finland-Africa Platform for Innovation (FAPI), a network of universities focused on advancing multidisciplinary, innovative collaboration between higher education institutions and other actors in Finland and Africa.
The event brought together researchers and experts to discuss the future of education, research, and innovation in collaboration with Finnish and African partners. The discussions and presentations centred on ways to strengthen Finland-Africa partnerships.
Key themes of the discussions included the importance of aligning initiatives with local needs and strengths, building trust-based partnerships, overcoming colonial perspectives and addressing challenges such as mismatched expectations and limited resources. Discussions also emphasised the need for long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships and greater collaboration between universities.
Forging stronger Finland-Africa partnerships for a sustainable future
In her welcoming address, the Rector of the University of Turku Marjo Kaartinen highlighted the importance of international collaboration and noted how the FAPI network has deepened the University’s relationships with African partners. Expressing hope for continued cooperation, the Rector underscored the value of EU initiatives that provide resources to strengthen and expand international partnerships.
Jutta Urpilainen, the European Commissioner for International Partnerships, addressed the seminar audience via a video message. Commissioner Urpilainen reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to Africa, recognising African youths as key to the continent’s future. Emphasising equal access to quality education and the role of partnerships, the Commissioner commended initiatives such as the Africa-EU investment package and mobility programmes like Erasmus+. Knowledge sharing, innovation, and inclusion of younger voices in policymaking were identified as essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Commissioner also expressed her gratitude to FAPI for its dedication to these shared goals.
Delivering a keynote remotely, Professor John Ouma Mugabe from the University of Pretoria highlighted the critical role of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in Africa’s development. Reflecting on Africa's development agenda, the professor highlighted significant milestones such as the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the adoption of the STI Strategy for Africa but noted persistent socio-economic inequalities and a mismatch between policy and practice in research and innovation (R&I).
While Africa has seen growth in STI institutions, hubs, and patent applications, Professor Mugabe emphasised the need for stronger intra-African partnerships and more enduring global collaborations. To foster greater impact, the Professor called for strategic, long-term R&I partnerships, increased engagement by Finnish universities in AU-EU innovation initiatives, and a focus on university-industry collaboration. Professor Mugabe also reminded the audience that Finland and other countries could also learn from Africa, particularly in research on informal sectors.
Enhancing educational collaboration between Africa and Finland
Chaired by Director Sai Väyrynen from the Global Innovation Network for Teaching and Learning (GINTL), the first session of the day explored research-based university education in Finland and Africa. Professor Friederike Lüpke (University of Helsinki), Associate Professor Emmanuel Acquah (Åbo Akademi University), Dr. Joy Eghonghon Akahome (University of Turku & Federal University Otuoke Bayelsa State) and Dr. Elizabeth Eta discussed the topic from their respective perspectives.
The speakers highlighted the importance of incorporating African knowledge, overcoming colonial perspectives, and aligning educational collaborations with local needs and priorities. The discussions emphasised building trust-based partnerships, reducing inequalities, and ensuring mutual learning and benefits in Finland-Africa academic collaborations. Suggestions for improvements included introducing African studies courses, inviting guest lecturers, and recognising local expertise to create more inclusive and equitable academic relationships. Raising awareness about Africa in Finnish higher education was identified as a critical step toward meaningful engagement.
Building meaningful partnerships for impact
Chaired by International Liaison Officer Kirsi Korpela from the University of Turku, the second session featured Finland-Africa collaborations focused on impactful innovations and collaboration projects between African countries and Finland.
Professor Niina Käyhkö (University of Turku) introduced the work done in DIDAIhub and Resilience Academy, community-driven initiatives and outlining the need for a digital data ecosystem that fosters talent, accessibility, learning, and global collaboration. Doctoral researcher Desale Kahsay (University of Turku) showcased a joint health technology innovation course with Finnish and African partners, stressing the importance of mutual engagement and capacity building. Project leader Cynthia Söderbacka discussed a co-creation initiative in Zambia to advance biogas and circular economy, while Project Advisor Arina Ventelä (Turku University of Applied Sciences) shared insights on the eMAMA project addressing maternal mental health in sub-Saharan Africa.
Envisioning the next chapters of Namibia-Finland collaborations
The third session of the event was chaired by Professor Maija Peltola from the University of Turku. The session focused on Namibia-Finland collaborations which have deep historical roots. The discussion focused not only on the past, but also on ongoing initiatives, with a hopeful look to the future.
University Researcher Sanna Huttunen (University of Turku) presented a FAPI seed-funding project on community-driven tree planting in Namibia, highlighting the importance of matching objectives, proper support measures and local involvement in tree planting initiatives. Global Development Manager Roseanna Avento (University of Eastern Finland) discussed the long-standing relationship between Finland and Namibia, advocating for responsible, equitable partnerships.
Professor Erkki Sutinen (University of Turku) shared insights from running the University’s overseas campus in Namibia, reflecting on the importance of recognising African communities’ strengths and considering the future role of traditional universities in Africa. Rector Emeritus Professor Kalervo Väänänen explored the potential for establishing a Southern African Science and Culture Institute in Windhoek, emphasising Namibia's strategic importance in Finland-Africa relations.
From failures to success - Insights on research and education cooperation
The final panel discussion of the event, chaired by Professor Jussi Jauhiainen of the University of Turku, explored the challenges and successes of impactful education and research cooperation with African partners.
Panellists Professor Erkki Sutinen, Professor Niina Käyhkö, Director Kaisa Kurki (UniPID), Director Sai Väyrynen, Associate Professor Emmanuel Acquah and Professor Enrico Di Minin (University of Helsinki) discussed the importance of understanding local contexts, co-creation, the complexity of education sector development. The panellists also reflected on failures such as mismatched expectations and limited resources, and stressed the need for humility, transparency and long-term commitment.
In terms of how to achieve successful collaborations, panellists emphasised the importance of on individuals, learning together and building sustainable, meaningful partnerships. Other key points raised during the discussion included the need for less territoriality, more collaboration between universities, and the importance of improving access to quality education in Africa. Panellists also highlighted the need for new teachers, scholarships and equal opportunities across African countries.
In her closing remarks, the Head of International Affairs Irinja Paakkanen from the University of Turku thanked everyone for their participation and echoed the sentiments of many other speakers that the cooperation between Finland and African countries that has been fostered by FAPI will continue in the future.
