Korea’s Role in Boosting African Innovation: The Impact of Rsif Scholars in Global Research Collaborations
On this International Day of Education, we celebrate the transformative power of education and its vital role in fostering sustainable development. At the heart of this global mission is the PASET Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (Rsif), a programme coordinated by icipe, and dedicated to empowering African scholars through international collaborations.
In this article, we feature an exclusive interview with Prof Junseok Hwang from the Global Research Center (GRC) in Korea, one of Rsif’s esteemed International Partner Institutions. Prof Hwang is the Director, Seoul National University Global Research & Development Business Center (GRC). He is also the Professor, Technology Management, Economics, and Policy Program in the College of Engineering, Seoul National University.
The discussion explores the unique collaboration and how education and innovation plays a role in securing Africa’s place in the global knowledge economy.
During an insightful interview with a senior representative from GRC, it became evident that Rsif students have made notable strides during their placements.
Q: What notable achievements or breakthroughs have Rsif students placed in GRC made during their time there?
A: I think we had a very successful first and second batch of the student who came to GRC. The main achievement they made is actually their thesis, at least through our consultation. I think that there was the major achievement, especially their research methodology has been sharpened for the African development, especially sustainable economy.
These scholars have not only produced high-quality PhD theses but have also sharpened their research methodologies, focusing on critical areas such as sustainable economic development in Africa. The rigorous academic environment at GRC has accelerated their progress, enabling them to meet and exceed expectations in their research endeavors.
Q: How have these placements facilitated partnerships between Rsif students and GRC?
A: One of the standout achievements of Rsif students at GRC is the establishment of partnerships that extend beyond academia. The successful matchmaking between students and faculty has led to fruitful collaborations across various disciplines. These connections are vital for fostering a community of researchers who can tackle pressing challenges facing Africa today.
Q: Are there any ongoing collaborations that stand out?
A: There are ongoing collaborations which have resulted in several journal publications, further solidifying the academic impact of these partnerships. This collaborative spirit is essential for nurturing a new generation of African researchers who are well-equipped to contribute to global knowledge and innovation. So yes, there’s more of collaboration in academic and journal publications, I think that’s mostly the what we do as scholars.
Enhancing Technical Skills for Local Impact
Q: In what ways do you believe the technical skills acquired by Rsif students in Korea differ from those available in their home countries?
A: The technical skills acquired by Rsif students in Korea significantly differ from those available in their home countries. Access to advanced academic resources, cutting-edge research facilities, and expert guidance has empowered these scholars to develop methodologies that are not only innovative but also applicable to local contexts upon their return. This transfer of knowledge is crucial for strengthening local research institutions and enhancing their capacity to address regional challenges.
The Ripple Effect on Local Institutions
Q: Can you elaborate on how the experiences gained in GRC contribute to local research institutions upon their return? What ripple effects have you observed?
A: The experience gained by Rsif alumni at GRC is already creating a ripple effect within local research institutions. The graduates have returned to their home countries as lecturers or researchers, bringing with them valuable insights and skills that contribute to the growth of their respective institutions. This dynamic exchange fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration that is vital for Africa’s development.
Korea’s Commitment to African Development
Q: What drives GRC’s interest in investing in Rsif and Africa’s scientific future? Are there specific goals or outcomes that Korea hope to achieve through this collaboration?
A: I think Rsif is a great initiative, also fostering Pan African agenda. In our institution, we have a scholarship which is older than Rsif since it started 21 years ago, like since 2003 and we are rebuilding global digital transformer bringing smart civilization to humanity. So we started with the digital, but now we are moving on to AI and also the smart city and other civilization effect.
Q: In your opinion how does Korea’s support for Rsif align with its broader foreign policy objectives? Can you provide examples of mutual benefits that have arisen from this partnership?
A: Korea’s support for Rsif aligns with its broader objectives aimed at fostering sustainable development in Africa. As the only non-African government supporting this initiative, Korea recognizes the importance of investing in education and research as a means to promote mutual growth and understanding between continents. The establishment of initiatives like the International Innovation Alliance further demonstrates Korea’s commitment to facilitating cross-continental collaborations that enhance Africa’s scientific landscape.
Investing in Future Generations
Q: How can Korea’s involvement serve as a model for other international donors? What tangible impacts have been observed that could encourage further investment?
A: Frankly speaking, I think Rsif is great, and should continue. The programme is very important and need to be increased. The global humanity need to work focusing on Africa so that we co-develop together. As we reflect on the successes of Rsif and its scholars, it becomes clear that continued investment in such programmes is essential for driving innovation across Africa. Funding opportunities should be expanded to ensure that more students can benefit from international collaborations that provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead change in their communities.
Q: Looking ahead, how do you envision the future of Rsif and its partnerships with international supporters? What potential do you see for African countries to become innovation hubs?
A: I want to say Korea is very strong in digital information technology or bio or agriculture, right? And agribusiness, and also AI and smart city. So those are the very strategic and specific areas that Korea can benefit the African scholars.
Q: How do you think Korea’s involvement serve as a model for other international donors?
A: I believe there’s more need of African scholarship. So we need work on creating a momentum that we can work together. There is the need for more scholarships and donor increase. From my point of view, you know that centers of excellence in Rsif African Host Universities (AHUs) are great. So they should be packaged as very important innovation hubs for collaboration to bring global awareness based on your Pan-African unity and strength. This should be the African innovation union in a way. Rsif probably can prosper by having more partnership and stronger collaboration, and also may be doing some of the strategic things together. Like the scholarly exchanges.
Call for action
By supporting initiatives like Rsif, stakeholders can play a pivotal role in shaping a brighter future for Africa—one where innovation thrives, and local researchers are empowered to make meaningful contributions on both national and global stages.