The Association of African Private Universities (AAPU) has called for homegrown research solutions to address Africa’s development challenges at the Times Higher Education Africa Universities Summit 2026.
The call was made during the high-level gathering in Nairobi, where education leaders examined the future of research, innovation, and talent development across the continent.
The summit, held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi, attracted over 350 participants from more than 150 institutions and organizations.
AAPU was represented by its Secretary-General, Prof Abubakar Sadiq Haruna, who delivered the message on behalf of the association’s president, Prof Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo.
Speaking on a panel session focused on scaling research excellence, Prof Gwarzo emphasized the need for Africa to reduce dependence on external funding and ideas.
He said the continent must prioritize locally driven research that directly responds to its social, economic, and technological realities.
According to him, private universities have a critical role to play in advancing this vision due to their flexibility, innovation-driven approach, and strong links with industry.
Prof Gwarzo noted that such institutions are well positioned to establish research hubs, innovation centres, and collaborative platforms that generate practical solutions.
Prof Gwarzo who’s the Founder and President of MAAUN Group of Universities, explained how AAPU, headquartered in Kano, is strengthening research capacity and cross-border collaboration.
On the sidelines of the summit, Prof Gwarzo engaged with partners including the Association of Commonwealth Universities to explore opportunities for joint funding, academic exchange, and improved recognition of qualifications.
The summit ended with a renewed commitment among stakeholders to promote collaboration within Africa and build sustainable, homegrown solutions to the continent’s pressing challenges.
