Obreal: "Supporting the development of higher education in Africa and Latin America"

"We want to convince politicians and decision-makers that investment in higher education is a driving force for sustainable development. We are working on this through capacity building, with universities, university associations and also Ministries of Education", Elizabeth Colucci, Director of Education Policy and Programmes at the Obreal association, tells News Tank's African office on 17/03/2025.

Obreal brings together universities, associations, regional higher education networks and research bodies in Europe, Latin America, Africa and Asia. Its secretariat is hosted by the University of Barcelona (Spain), one of the founding members.

Initially a platform for dialogue and cooperation between the European Union and Latin America, focusing on education and higher education, the association developed its projects towards more multilateral cooperation.

To meet common challenges, such as Sustainable Development Goals, it focuses on South-South-North partnerships and not just North-South (or South-North).

"In Europe, universities have formed many different networks and alliances. We are…