Africa Science Leadership Program

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Overview of the Program

The ASLP is an initiative of the University of Pretoria in partnership with the Global Young Academy and is funded by Robert Bosch Stiftung. It serves early- to mid-career researchers in basic and applied science, engineering, social sciences, arts, and the humanities. The program aims to grow mid-career African academics in the areas of collective leadership, team development, engagement, and collaboration, with the intention of enabling them to solve the complex issues that face both Africa and the global community.

The leadership program

  • Identifies early- to mid-career academics who have demonstrated leadership potential and an interest in developing key leadership skills
  • Supports them to apply the acquired skills to projects/initiatives that are relevant to the academic development on the continent and its impact on society
  • Creates a network of academic leaders on the continent, spanning not only across countries, but also across disciplinary boundaries
  • Advances a curriculum for academic leadership development, which can be utilized in institutions in Africa and beyond.

The training will cover:

  • Core elements of collective leadership
  • Creative and systems thinking
  • Development of effective networks
  • Stakeholder engagement for change
  • Maximizing the impact of collaborative efforts
  • Advanced dialogue and communication skills
  • Effective problem solving and decision-making

Following the first training week, fellows will apply their skills to a project relevant to their context, the AGENDA 2063 and SDGs, and with the aim to contribute to a new paradigm for Africa science. During the fellowship year, participants will continue to engage with the wider ASLP community and have access to peer and professional support. The following year (2022), fellows will report back on their initiatives during a second, 4-day workshop, where they will also be equipped with further skills to continue fruitfully on their leadership journey. Pending restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic by that time, it is envisaged that this second workshop will be held in person in Pretoria, South Africa at the Future Africa Institute.

Selection criteria and application process

To be selected, applicants need to display a compelling vision of their future involvement in the development of research projects, programs, human capacity, specific policies, or societal structures. The selection process will consider individual qualities but also focus on ensuring a diversity of culture, subject background (Natural and Social Sciences, Humanities), and gender among the fellows. Where possible the program will also attempt to create small ‘cores’ of leadership; multiple strong applicants from the same center or country will thus be considered.

The following criteria are used as a guide for the nomination and selection of fellows:

  • A PhD degree or equivalent qualification;
  • A faculty or a continuing research position at a research institution;
  • Active in research and teaching at an African institution of higher education or research;
  • A sustained record of outstanding scientific outputs;
  • Interest in translating and communicating the results of their work for impact in society;
  • Demonstrated leadership ability in research and beyond;
  • Interest in the role of research in addressing complex issues affecting society;
  • Interest in collaborations across disciplines and sectors (e.g. industry, government, etc.);
  • Commitment to participate in all the activities of the fellowship; and
  • Intent to share what is learned in the program with their broader networks.

Closing dates: 31 May 2021

For more details and application: https://www.futureafrica.science/index.php/application/aslp/info

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