AAU and EUA call for university cooperation

The Association of African Universities (AAU) and the European University Association (EUA) have released a joint statement calling for African and European leaders to strengthen cooperation in higher education and research.

The statement, released on 10/11/2025, makes three recommendations to increase cooperation: to recognise the importance and invest in university cooperation; to enable interregional exchange; and to focus on values-based partnership.

"Higher education and research are crucial for enabling Africa’s growth and development, and for a mutually beneficial partnership with Europe", said Olusola Bandele Oyewole, AAU Secretary General. "The African Union, European Union and national governments must include universities in their plans, and agree on more investment in research and education capacity building and collaboration".

Amanda Crowfoot, EUA Secretary General, said, "Higher education and research collaboration are central to values-based innovation, and to economic and social development. This is indisputable. Africa-Europe higher education and research…