Initialed by the permanent secretary of the Academy, Abdeljalil Lahjomri, and the rector of the AUF, Slim Khalbous, this agreement provides for the organization of meetings and conferences on the Chair of African Literature and Arts and the creation of prizes for the scientific research in the human and social sciences.
The agreement also stipulates cooperation in the human and social sciences to address the problem of employment of graduates in these disciplines, collaboration between the two parties at the African level and the strengthening of South-South cooperation, as well as the creation of a joint committee to coordinate the monitoring and implementation of projects.
In a word during this ceremony, Mr. Lahjomri indicated that this agreement aims to strengthen joint action between the two institutions in the field of social sciences with a view to promoting the emergence of a scientific elite, on the one hand , and action for Africa taking into account the Academy’s new scientific research projects focused on the Continent, on the other hand, underlining in this regard the need to contribute to artistic, cultural and literary creation in Africa.
In this sense, he recalled the recent creation of a Chair of African literature within the Academy, as part of its openness to its continental environment and the promotion of this literature which has not reached the notoriety and influence it deserves, highlighting the role that the AUF can play thanks to its extensive network of universities in Africa.
For his part, Mr. Khalbous emphasized the importance of cooperation at the African level, maintaining that the AUF is present in more than 40 countries on the Continent and will work to support literary and research projects in coordination with teacher-researchers within the Academy of the Kingdom of Morocco.
As part of the strengthening of the South-South partnership, Mr. Khalbous affirmed that the social sciences will be popularized within the countries of the Continent and the creation of prizes to promote scientific research in this area, on the basis of a common strategic vision between the Agency and the Academy.
More than 400 academic establishments in Africa are members of the Agency, he said, noting that this broad presence requires consolidation of the partnership and the development of research in various fields, notably the human and social sciences.
Founded more than 60 years ago, the AUF is one of the largest international organizations of higher education and research institutions in the world, with 990 academic institutions and research centers in 118 countries.
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Expert in African Literature and Arts
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Khalbous! It’s a pleasure to have you join us today to discuss the recent agreement signed between the Academy and the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF). This partnership seems to be a significant step forward for African Literature and Arts. Could you give us an overview of its main objectives?
Dr. Slim Khalbous: Thank you for having me! Indeed, this agreement, initialed by the permanent secretary of the Academy, Abdeljalil Lahjomri, and myself, aims to foster collaboration in the realm of African Literature and Arts. Our main objectives are centered on organizing conferences and meetings, as well as creating prizes for scientific research in the human and social sciences—a much-needed focus in our educational landscape.
Time.news Editor: It’s clear that supporting scientific research is crucial. How do you envision this agreement addressing the issue of employment for graduates in the human and social sciences?
Dr. Khalbous: That’s a great question. One of the central tenets of our agreement is to address the employment challenge faced by graduates in these fields. By enhancing collaborative efforts between the two institutions, we aim to create initiatives that not only boost the competency of graduates but also align their skills with market needs. This collaboration at the African level will play a pivotal role in innovating employment pathways and connecting students with opportunities.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of collaboration, the agreement mentions a focus on strengthening South-South cooperation. Can you elaborate on what this entails?
Dr. Khalbous: Absolutely. South-South cooperation is about fostering alliances among countries in the Global South to share knowledge, resources, and technology. The agreement focuses on creating a joint committee that will coordinate projects and facilitate the exchange of best practices among African nations. This will enhance our collective ability to tackle pressing social and human sciences issues while enabling countries to benefit from one another’s experiences and successes.
Time.news Editor: That sounds promising! And what do you see as the long-term impact of this agreement on the African academic landscape?
Dr. Khalbous: The long-term impact could be transformative. By investing in the production of knowledge and fostering a scientific elite in Africa, we envision a future where African perspectives and narratives are at the forefront. This initiative could also cultivate a culture of research that prioritizes local contexts and needs, thus empowering the continent to address its challenges more effectively and innovate solutions that are sustainable and contextually relevant.
Time.news Editor: As we wrap up, what is your message to those who are passionate about African literature, arts, and social sciences regarding this collaboration?
Dr. Khalbous: I encourage everyone to engage with this initiative. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or simply a lover of African culture, your involvement can contribute to a more vibrant academic and cultural landscape. This agreement represents an exciting opportunity to elevate African voices in the global discourse and ensure that our rich cultural heritage is celebrated and studied widely.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Khalbous, for your insights and for sharing the exciting developments unfolding in the field of African Literature and Arts. We look forward to seeing the positive changes this agreement brings.
Dr. Khalbous: Thank you, it’s been a pleasure discussing this important topic with you!