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 printable version
AFRICA REGIONAL NETWORKS
The
Partnership for Higher Education in Africa (PHEA) is pleased to introduce this extensive database of regional research and training networks. The Africa Regional Networks Database was
developed by Mr. Jeffrey C. Fine and Mr. Peter Szyszlo as part of a study
commissioned by PHEA on regional networks engaged in research and post-graduate
education in Africa. Over 120 networks were surveyed using web-sourced
materials, supplemented by telephone and email exchanges. Field visits to West,
East and Southern Africa between September 2005 and 2006 validated information
concerning selected networks.
Selection
for entry in the database required that the network be operational, centered on a
discipline or body of knowledge and practice, and engaged in post-graduate
education and/or research. The depth
and size of the database indicates a new generation of initiatives with the
potential impact of promoting new fields of knowledge, new models of
instruction with enriched curriculum, and innovations in the organization and
financing of research and post-graduate training. The Partnership hopes that
the database will facilitate efficient design and implementation of initiatives
within and outside Africa and the strengthening of university-centered research
and post-graduate training.
The database includes about 20 networks
that focus on Africa but which are based outside of Africa, such as Third World
Organisation for Women in Science, based in Trieste. A full 41% of the networks
listed are based in South Africa, with another 15% in Kenya, although almost
all the networks reach across international borders. Coverage varies from a
narrow geographic focus to a pan-African or even global reach. Membership
composition of networks may include institutions and/or individuals. A significant proportion is based in
universities.
Records
for individual entries include contact information, including website,
principal focus, principal activities, membership composition, geographic
coverage, discipline and governance.
The date of entry and date of revision are also noted, so users will
know the age of the information provided.
The database is searchable
online using pull-down menus for four different options: network name, discipline/field,
contact person, and country. In
addition, users can search using any key words. For those wanting to manipulate the database, it is available to
download as a zipped Microsoft Access file or in plain text CSV format.
Feedback
from users, including amendments and additions, is welcome. Information and queries regarding the
database should be forwarded to doreen.lwanga@nyu.edu. Find an Organization
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