The African Development Bank (AfDB) has announced that it is launching a fund to complement the Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) programme. JADS is a joint initiative between the AfDB and Japanese government, which was launched in 2017. The new programme is designated the African Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Fund. 

The creation of the new fund was highlighted by AfDB president Dr Akinwuni Adesina at a virtual event, entitled the ‘Value of Studying in Japan for Youth in Africa and Acceleration of the Partnership between Africans and Japan’. Organised by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, this event was aligned with the recent, eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development, held in Tunisia. The creation of the new fund was, however, only publicised on Thursday evening. 

“The fund will serve as a continental co-financing facility to help African countries build innovation-led and knowledge-based economies,” he said. “I would like to request for your strong support for the African Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Fund and to open academic learning opportunities for many of Africa’s youth.”  

Adesina also praised the JADS programme, under which high-achieving African students were awarded two-year scholarships to undertake postgraduate (Master's degree) studies in priority development areas. These include agriculture, energy, engineering, environmental sustainability and health.  

“Initiatives like the [JADS] programme are just beginning,” he affirmed. “Together, we have a unique opportunity to reach millions of youth with education.” 

“In a world that is increasingly becoming a global village, thanks to technological revolution, educational institutions really have to prepare students adequately for full-time employment,” highlighted AfDB VP for agriculture Dr Beth Dunford at the same event. “The [JADS] programme is one example of how best collaboration with Japan is helping students gain access to quality educational experiences. It is really critical that programme graduates apply their acquired skills and knowledge for the betterment of their home communities.”