The objective of the conference is to analyse the findings of two studies carried out by the AAU, with funding from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC).

 

One of the studies dealt with the state of connectivity of higher education institutions in Africa, especially in West and Central Africa. The second one dealt with available fibre infrastructure, not only infrastructure belonging to telecommunication operators, but also the dark fibre belonging to companies like railways, power and gas companies.

The objective of these studies was to assess the current situation, to compare it with situations in other parts of the world and to eventually suggest measures to be taken in order to significantly improve the connectivity of African higher education and research institutions at affordable cost. 

 

The participants (representatives of governments, higher education and research institutions, continental and regional bodies, telecommunications regulatory authorities, telecommunications operators, development agencies and other stakeholders) will also discuss ways and means on how to improve the connectivity of African higher education institutions.