In an era where global challenges like the climate crisis demand urgent, collaborative efforts, five institutions have joined forces to create an academic partnership aimed at fostering research, innovation, and educational development. Aga Khan University (AKU) along with Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Canada and three leading Tanzanian institutions – Nelson Mandela African Institute of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), Sokoine University of Agriculture, and the University of Dar-es-Salaam - have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing the 5-University Consortium on Climate.
The MOU was signed at the University of Dar-es-Salaam during the inaugural conference of the consortium themed Water, Health and Data Analytics in a Changing Climate.
“Our partnership, together with this conference captures our intention as universities to build capacity to confront some of the challenges such as climate change, which is not only affecting us but also posing the greatest existential threat to modern human civilization," said Prof Willam Anangisye, Vice Chancellor, University of Dar es Salaam. “This conference provides a unique opportunity for all of us because of its scope; it consists of international participants and people with a wide range of knowledge on the issues."
The groundbreaking partnership seeks to leverage the combined academic, scientific, and technical expertise of its members to address pressing climate challenges and advance educational opportunities for students and researchers across the globe.
“At the heart of this collaboration is the shared objective of tackling climate change through academic research, knowledge exchange, and innovative solutions," said Dr Sulaiman Shahabuddin, Vice Chancellor, AKU. “The consortium represents an important step toward uniting our strengths in science, research and education to confront one of the greatest challenges of our time."
The partners also aim to co-sponsor symposia, seminars, and an annual conference dedicated to climate issues, providing a platform for experts to discuss cutting-edge research and emerging technologies. Additionally, there will be opportunities to explore consulting and project initiatives that align with the collective goals of the consortium.
“This collaboration extends beyond research and innovation. The institutions are committed to working together on educational initiatives that will benefit students, faculty, and staff," said Dugan O'Neil, Vice President Research and Innovation at SFU. “By pooling our resources and expertise, we can support learning and research on a broader scale."
A key focus of the consortium is the development of joint programmes that will enable students to access diverse resources and expertise from each participating institution.
Professor Maulilio Kipanyula, Vice Chancellor at NM-AIST underscored the value of these opportunities: “I am delighted to witness the signing of this MoU, as a technology producer and research-based institution, NM-AIST is dedicated to fostering this collaboration for the mutual benefit of the global community."
Professor Maulid Mwatawala, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic at Sokoine University emphasised that, “We are dedicated to improving farmers' livelihoods, particularly those affected by climate change. We look forward to productive discussions at the conference and the valuable academic exchange among the five universities."
The partnership will be governed by a Joint Institutional Steering Committee, which will meet annually to review progress and identify new opportunities for collaboration. Set to run for five years with the potential for extension, the 5-University Consortium on Climate is a testament to the power of collective action in addressing the climate crisis. Each institution is committed to working together in good faith, combining strengths in research, education, and innovation to advance solutions for a sustainable future.