The essence of crafting need-based research topics cannot be over-emphasised; research topics should emerge from identified local problems rather than abstract academic inquiry disconnected from practical application. For instance, energy solutions should address unreliable power grids common in many African countries, agricultural research must consider local soil types and climate conditions, and healthcare innovations should tackle endemic diseases and resource constraints unique to the region.
It must carry commercial and societal value to truly make an impact. There is no innovation without a clear commercial importance or practical application. Unfortunately, for far too long, much of the research emerging from Africa has been a reflection of borrowed wisdom, predominantly from the West, without translating into concrete, contextually relevant projects that solve local problems.
To say Nigerians and Africans at large are blessed with abundant talent and potential is an understatement. The continent is teeming with brilliant minds, creative thinkers, and problem solvers. Yet, the gap between academic research and real-world application remains wide. This disconnect has stifled the growth of indigenous innovation ecosystems and limited Africa’s ability to leverage its intellectual capital for sustainable development.
Recently, a promising initiative took place that highlights a shift in this narrative. The Africa Engineering and Technology Network (AFRETEC), in collaboration with Mastercard and the University of Lagos, organised a five-day intensive training program themed “Empowering the Next Generation of African Research Leaders in a Digital World.” This program was designed to bring together stakeholders from industry and academia to align their skills, goals, and expectations. It represents a critical step towards closing the divide that has, for too long, seen Africa’s brightest students seeking opportunities abroad, places where their dreams of innovation and success are more likely to be realized. This initiative is crucial in equipping young researchers with entrepreneurial skills, digital literacy, and exposure to global best practices. Mentorship from experienced innovators and business leaders can guide emerging talents in navigating the complexities of turning ideas to marketable products.
The crux of the issue lies in the fact that innovation must be rooted in the specific needs and realities of the environment in which it is applied. Africa’s development challenges are unique, shaped by its socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural realities. Simply adopting solutions designed for other continents, without modification or consideration of local contexts, is a recipe for failure. This is why policy summersault, frequent shifts and reversals in policy direction are common occurrence in many African countries. Policymakers often attempt to apply foreign models that do not mesh well with local conditions, leading to ineffective or unsustainable outcomes.
Certainly, for Africa to truly harness the power of innovation, it must prioritize the development of homegrown solutions tailored to its own problems. This means rethinking the scope and focus of academic research to ensure it factors in the environment of adoption from the outset. Research should not exist in a vacuum; it must be inherently interdisciplinary and collaborative, involving not only academics but also industry players, policymakers, and end-users. Such engagement ensures that knowledge transfer is not just theoretical but translates into concrete products and services that reflect African sociocultural differences and practical realities.
The recent AFRETEC initiative is a model worth replicating and expanding across the continent. By creating platforms where industry professionals and academics converge, it becomes possible to align research objectives with market needs. This alignment is vital to overcoming the skill and goal mismatch that currently plagues the continent’s innovation landscape. Many African students graduate with impressive academic credentials but lack the practical skills or industry connections necessary to turn ideas into viable products. Conversely, industries often struggle to find research that addresses their immediate challenges or offers innovative solutions to improve competitiveness. Universities and research institutions must work hand-in-hand with businesses to co-develop technologies and solutions. Industry can provide insights into market demands, funding, and pathways to commercialization, while academia contributes deep scientific knowledge and research capacity.
However, government need to create enabling environments with consistent policies that encourage innovation, protect intellectual property, and offer incentives for startups and research commercialization. Frequent policy shifts undermine investor confidence and disrupt long-term innovation plans.
African innovations must respect and incorporate local cultural values and practices. This ensures acceptance and sustainability. For instance, digital health solutions need to consider language barriers, literacy levels, and traditional health beliefs.
When these elements come together, the result is a vibrant innovation ecosystem where value meets creativity, where ideas are not just generated but nurtured into impactful solutions that drive economic growth, improve quality of life, and position Africa as a global player in technology and science.
The benefits of such a transformation are enormous. Beyond economic gains, locally developed innovations can empower communities, create jobs, and reduce dependency on foreign technologies. They can also inspire a new generation of African leaders who see research and innovation as tools for self-determination and development.
Moreover, as the world becomes increasingly digital, Africa’s young population represents a powerful force for change. Harnessing their talents through targeted support and relevant education can accelerate the continent’s leapfrog development in sectors like fintech, renewable energy, agriculture technology, and health tech.
It is time for Africa to stop borrowing solutions and start building its own. The journey to sustainable development and global competitiveness begins with research that understands and serves Africa’s unique context. Only then can innovation truly become a catalyst for lasting change on the continent.
.Abdulazeez is a poet and the author of the poetry collection “Soul Rants: A Journey from Within.” She is the Communication officer at the Caprecon Foundation, a doctoral candidate with the University of Lagos and the Treasurer of PEN International, Nigerian Center, she resides in Lagos. Contact: +234-8034816865 (mailto:[email protected])
