Al Akhawayn University has been selected to join the African Engineering and Technology Network (Afretec), led by Carnegie Mellon University Africa. This prestigious network is dedicated to advancing inclusive digital transformation across Africa through research, education, and entrepreneurship.
William Mutero, Director of the Center for Inclusive Digital Transformation in Africa (CIDTA) at Carnegie Mellon, spearheaded the selection of Al Akhawayn University, alongside seven other African institutions. “Al Akhawayn was chosen for its commitment to advancing technology in the region, its innovative approach to engineering education, and its strategic location in the MENA region,” Mutero stated.
Al Akhawayn University’s focus on digital transformation and its efforts to train a new generation of tech professionals aligns seamlessly with Afretec’s mission. Mutero highlighted the university’s diverse programs, including those in artificial intelligence, robotics, renewable energy systems, cloud and mobile software engineering, and big data analytics.
Conrad Tucker, Director of Carnegie Mellon University Africa and Associate Dean of International Affairs, noted that adding Al Akhawayn as the eighth partner in Afretec is a critical milestone. “We have deliberately opted for gradual, thoughtful growth to build a strong foundation, maximizing the impact of our members across the continent,” he said.
Afretec partners benefit from access to essential resources, including $3.5 million annually, to strengthen teaching, research, entrepreneurship, and technological advancements. These resources are shared among members, enabling them to drive forward key initiatives at both local and continental levels.
Stanley Mukasa, Director of Partnerships for Entrepreneurship and Industry at Carnegie Mellon Africa, expressed his excitement about Al Akhawayn joining the network’s entrepreneurial pillar. He emphasized the university’s track record in fostering entrepreneurship, adding that Afretec has already supported the creation of over 10 businesses and 85 jobs in just four years. Through initiatives like CyLab Africa and Upanzi Digital Public Goods, backed by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Afretec has been instrumental in driving innovations in digital identity and payments.
Al Akhawayn University President Amine Bensaid welcomed the partnership, describing it as a unique opportunity to further the university’s mission of supporting educators and students to innovate and make a tangible impact on society. “This collaboration with Afretec will enhance our ability to provide resources and opportunities for our faculty and students, empowering them to contribute to the technology field and generate lasting benefits for our communities and the continent,” Bensaid stated.
Launched in 2022, Afretec brings together African universities focused on technology to collaborate closely, accelerate inclusive digital growth, promote technological development, create jobs, and shape public policy. Carnegie Mellon University, renowned as the world’s second-best university in computer science and the top in artificial intelligence, leads the network. Other members include the American University in Cairo, Cheikh Anta Diop University, the University of Lagos, the University of Nairobi, the University of Rwanda, and the University of the Witwatersrand.
Afretec’s main objectives are to produce locally relevant innovations, train globally competitive tech talent, foster a digital knowledge ecosystem, and develop a robust entrepreneurial tech landscape in Africa. The network has made significant strides, equipping African engineering students with the skills needed to drive digital transformation in sectors such as healthcare, transportation, agriculture, commerce, and education.
Through online programs and job readiness initiatives, Afretec members provide high-quality engineering education, with 95% of graduates securing positions at top companies such as Microsoft, IBM, Google, Safaricom, MTN, and GIZ.
