“Addressing key societal challenges is at the forefront of our mission at King’s College London, and we are pleased to be actively involved in initiatives like the ARUA-Europe Clusters of Research Excellence. It is clear that the clusters will contribute toward more equitable and impactful research collaboration with our colleagues on the continent, and I will look forward to seeing them grow from strength to strength.”
Professor 'Funmi Olonisakin, Vice-President of International, Engagement & Service
19 June 2023
King's part of new Africa-Europe Clusters of Research Excellence (CoRE)
Twenty research Clusters of Research Excellence (CoRE) have been created to bring together researchers from Europe and Africa, to transform collaboration in scientific research, with a focus on equity as a precondition for academics to address common challenges in society.
These research clusters were established by academic researchers and approved by the Vice-Chancellors and Presidents of the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) and The Guild of European Research-Intensive Universities (The Guild), of which King’s College London is a member.
CoRE will bring together researchers from universities and research institutes across both continents, in addition to ARUA, The Guild and other institutions in Europe and Africa. This partnership will focus on beginning dialogues with policymakers and funders in both continents and beyond, to identify ground-breaking solutions and create opportunities for investment in societal transformation.
The twenty clusters aim to develop science collaboration equitably and sustainably, with each tackling a challenge in society. Seventeen clusters were announced in June 2023, followed by three more in September 2023.
Public health, environmental sustainability, technology and capacity building are some of the major themes to be explored by these groups.
“It is incredibly important that we co-create knowledge communities that speak to the realities of peace and security in Africa, and I am delighted that the Cluster of Excellence in Peace and Security has been approved. Having a solid platform to collaborate with our colleagues in Africa and Europe on these important issues will contribute significantly to research as well as policy and practice in the field.”
Dr Eka Ikpe, Director at the African Leadership Centre
It is hoped that CoRE will establish a new model of research collaboration between the continents and provide a benchmark for future innovation and partnerships in scientific study.
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Director, African Leadership Centre
Vice President (International, Engagement & Service)