13th Africa–Europe Science Collaboration Forum: Empowering Innovation for a Sustainable Shared Future

We are pleased to announce that our CEO, Luis Neves, will chair the panel “GeSI’s Role in Enabling Sustainable Digital Transformation Across Africa and Europe within the EU’s Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF)” at the Africa–Europe Science Collaboration Platform  Forum.

AERAP will host its 13th Annual Forum in Brussels from 16–19 March 2026, convening policymakers, scientists, investors, and international organisations to strengthen the strategic Africa–Europe partnership through science, technology, and innovation.

The 2026 Forum comes at a pivotal moment, as the European Union prepares its Multi-annual Financial Framework (2028–2034)—an opportunity to align research, development, and investment priorities across both continents. Under the theme “Science Collaboration for Shared Futures,” the Forum will demonstrate how joint research and innovation can advance global goals, accelerate sustainable growth, and foster equitable and impactful partnerships between Africa and Europe.

The programme will feature high-level sessions across several strategic areas, including:

AI, Digital Public Infrastructure, and Research Infrastructures (ESFRI): exploring how digital science ecosystems can empower researchers in Africa and Europe.

European Parliament AERAP Hearing: addressing policy alignment for science, technology, and innovation within the Global Gateway and Agenda 2063 frameworks.

Capital Markets for Science and Technology in Africa: showcasing innovative financing instruments to unlock private and institutional investment in research and innovation.

Global Health (EDCTP3/IHI): advancing equitable and effective health research partnerships.

Agriculture and Food Security, and Quantum Computing with Africa: examining frontier technologies alongside sustainable development priorities.

AERAP Forum 2026 will reaffirm science as a cornerstone of Africa–Europe cooperation—connecting the EU’s Global Gateway, Horizon Europe, and Agenda 2063 in support of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.