Academia-Industry Training (AIT) Swiss-Africa Program (2010–2024) Alumni Event
The Academia-Industry Training (AIT) Swiss-Africa program, running since 2010, has played a pivotal role in fostering collaboration between research-based startups, industry leaders, and investors. This initiative, spearheaded by the University of Basel’s International Office in partnership with the Swiss Embassy in Pretoria, is supported by Swiss and South African government institutions, along with key partners from Rwanda and Nigeria. The program provides entrepreneurs with international market access, networking opportunities, and business development insights, strengthening the link between academia and industry. Each year, AIT hosts an Annual Conference and Swiss Residency Week, creating a platform for knowledge exchange and strategic partnerships. The program has facilitated connections between Swiss and African innovation ecosystems, helping startups scale internationally.
The 2024 AIT Swiss-Africa Alumni Meeting in Stellenbosch brought together nearly 60 entrepreneurs, alumni, and stakeholders, highlighting the program’s long-term impact.
The key outcomes of the AIT Swiss-Africa program from 2021 to 2024 highlight Africa’s entrepreneurial potential, demonstrating the continent’s ability to offer innovative solutions to global challenges. Collaboration remains essential, as entrepreneurs thrive when supported by strong networks and ecosystems. A major focus has been on bridging academia and industry, ensuring that academic research aligns with commercial needs to drive innovation. Lastly, Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs), play a pivotal role in supporting research spin-offs, providing a robust model for nurturing startups throughout their business journey.
The AIT webinar series, launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, has become a key resource for stakeholders, covering topics such as university-market linkages, investment readiness, and startup resilience. Sessions like “Challenges of Growth” helped prepare alumni for scaling their businesses internationally. The program’s long-term impact is evident in its strong alumni network, which fosters continued collaboration, mentorship, and knowledge exchange. Many alumni have expressed interest in regional networking events, mentorship programs, and hands-on workshops to further strengthen their entrepreneurial ecosystems. As the AIT Swiss-Africa initiative moves forward, it remains a beacon for university-industry collaboration, supporting entrepreneurs in Africa and Switzerland and driving innovation for impact.
