AFoWYESTI Executive Director Participates in the Berlin Falling Walls Science Summit 6–9 November 2025 AFoWYESTI
From 6–9 November 2025 AFoWYESTI Executive Director, Prof. Catherine Ngila, participated in the Berlin Falling Walls Science Summit 2025, an internationally renowned event that brought together global leaders, innovators, researchers, and policymakers to celebrate the Science Breakthroughs of the Year 2025 and foster dialogue on the future of science and innovation.
Keynote Address
On 6 November, Prof. Ngila delivered a keynote address titled “Female Leadership in Science: Why It Matters More Than Ever – Towards Inclusive and Unifying Futures” at the Meitner Stage, Falling Walls Science House, Berlin.
Her presentation highlighted the critical role of women in science and reinforced AFoWYESTI’s mission to advance science, technology, and innovation (STI) by creating greater opportunities for women and youth across Africa. The keynote emphasized the importance of inclusive leadership in driving scientific excellence and sustainable development.
High-Level Roundtable Engagements
On 8 November, Prof. Ngila participated in two high-level discussions focused on strengthening international research collaboration and promoting equitable scientific partnerships.
Breaking Down the Wall of Creating Just & Global Collaborations
This strategic roundtable explored how African, European, and global research partnerships can evolve from transactional engagements into meaningful, long-term collaborations, particularly within the context of the global energy transition.
Briefing for the Falling Walls Executive Table
Under the theme “Fostering Inclusive and Fair Africa–Europe Research Networks,” supported by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the discussion examined practical approaches to strengthening research cooperation between Africa and Europe.
Key questions addressed included:
• What barriers limit the development of joint international research initiatives?
• How can African researchers and institutions be more effectively integrated into global scientific collaborations?
Advancing AFoWYESTI’s Mission
Prof. Ngila’s participation reflects AFoWYESTI’s continued commitment to promoting equitable research partnerships, strengthening inclusive research ecosystems, and expanding opportunities for women and youth in STEM across Africa.
We congratulate all Science Breakthroughs of the Year 2025 Laureates for their outstanding contributions to advancing scientific knowledge and innovation, and we remain committed to supporting initiatives that drive transformative research and global collaboration.
Learn more about the Falling Walls Science Summit: https://falling-walls.com/
