Knocking on the Door of Higher Education Institutions: The AU-EU Innovation Agenda and the Involvement of Nordic Actors

During this event we will discuss the current state of the development of the joint European–African Research & Innovation agenda, its priorities and future implementation through Horizon Europe. The event also aims to build on already existing research cooperation between Nordic and African Universities to contribute to the implementation of the EU-AU R&I agenda. We will pay particular attention to the cooperation between Nordic and African universities during this event and what role universities can play in this process. 

Speakers include: 

Ms Nienke Bulisman, Head of Unit for Global Approach & International Cooperation in R&I, International Cooperation II, European Commission.

Dr Lavern Samuels, Chair & President of the Southern African Nordic Centre and IEASA.

Ms María Soraya Rodriguez Ramos, Member of Parliament, Renew Europe.

Dr Monica Ebele Idinoba, Director of the Department for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, African Union.

Other invited speakers include Umesh Bawa, Director of SANORD & Director of International Relations at the University of the Western Cape, Lora Borissova – Cabinet Expert of European Commissioner of International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen, and Professor Kenneth Matengu – Vice-Chancellor at the University of Namibia & Chair of the Pan African University Council. In addition, high-level representatives of Nordic Universities will also be attending ready to engage in fruitful exchanges.

Professor Janne Pietarinen, Dean of the Philosophical Faculty at the University of Eastern Finland, will act as a commenter in the panel debate.

Kindly note that prior registration is necessary. A link to live stream will be sent after registration.

For the full programme, updates and practical information of the event, please consult the official event website at knockknock2023.wordpress.com/.

For further information, please contact Massimo Busuoli, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, email massimo.busuoli@ntnu.no.