The community of future-oriented African thinkers and doers met on the 10th and 11th of December 2020 to reflect on various challenges and achievements at the 2020 African Crossroads hybrid edition. We recognise and celebrate the huge contributions of other indefatigable Africans who have made a significant impact in keeping the Pan-African dream alive.
Africans rising
Africans rising #NairobiNiMimi Series: James Apiya Ogutu
James Apiya Ogutu is a man that came to the city of Nairobi with a plan and his hard work has paid off. Today, at 46, he is a successful entrepreneur with an inspirational story.
Africans rising From Ugandan child soldier to PhD graduate
In 1986 Julius Okello was forced into Uganda’s Bush War as a child soldier. Tenacity and hope delivered him through a personal wilderness to his PhD.
Africans rising ‘Grab your opportunities with both hands’
Takunda Chitaka, as an academic achiever from a young age, is no stranger to success. Equally, she is no stranger to the challenges that life can present along the way. However, it is not her failures or successes that define her life, but rather her spontaneous and positive approach, which has allowed her to grow as a researcher and a human being. She will be graduating with her PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Cape Town (UCT) in December 2020.
Africans rising Unisa appoints Prof Puleng LenkaBula first female Vice Chancellor in 148 years
The University of South Africa (UNISA) has appointed Professor Puleng LenkaBula as the new Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University. Prof LenkaBula becomes the first female to be the VC and Principal since the establishment of the university 148 years ago.
Africans rising South Africa: UCT rises in research rankings
UCT moved from 121st to 103rd position in the 2021 US News & World Report Best Global Universities rankings, tied with Radboud University Nijmegen in the Netherlands, and was ranked in the top 100 for six subjects, including an outstanding top 10 ranking for infectious diseases.
Africans rising Studying the immune system’s response to COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has directly affected more than 700 000 South Africans, and each patient experienced the virus differently – many paid the ultimate price. While the infection rate in the country has slowed down, pressing questions remain: How long does immunity last? What accounts for the differences in the disease’s severity?
Africans rising #EndSARS: How Nigeria can tap into its youthful population
With 70 percent of its people under 30 years, Nigeria needs to harness the strength in its youthful population.
Africans rising Why #ENDSARS protests are different, and what lessons they hold for Nigeria
Although the Nigerian government has announced the disbanding of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, protesters have not let up. They are now calling for wider reforms.