Learning What Works: Strengthening Science through Knowledge Exchange in Africa

This publication highlights how African countries can improve science, technology and innovation (STI) by sharing knowledge and building strong networks. The paper was developed as part of the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI), a partnership that supports research councils across the continent.

What the Report Covers

The authors explore how science actors—like researchers, universities, government agencies, and private sector partners—can work together more effectively by:

• Exchanging ideas, tools, and expertise
• Building trust and long-term partnerships
• Creating strong systems for learning and collaboration

They focus on Knowledge Exchange and Networking (KEN) as a strategy to support innovation, solve problems, and boost the impact of research in Africa.

Key Concepts and Tools

The report outlines several mechanisms that support KEN:

• Collaborative research that brings together universities, industries and policymakers
• Shared facilities and labs that give innovators access to equipment and expertise
• Co-designed academic programmes that meet local needs
• Regular SGCI Masterclasses where councils share lessons, experiences and success stories
• Use of technology to connect people across regions

These approaches help science actors learn from each other, improve how they work, and produce more impactful research.

Results and Recommendations for Knowledge Exchange in Africa

KEN efforts under SGCI have led to real changes in countries like Uganda, Mozambique, Malawi and Botswana. Councils have revised policies, built new partnerships, and increased funding for innovation.

The report recommends that governments:

• Strengthen national coordination and knowledge-sharing platforms
• Support open science policies
• Invest in strong institutions and networks like the African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS)