This ATPS Strategic Plan Phase IX for 2023-2028 addresses the evolving needs and aspirations of ATPS stakeholders, aligning its strategic priorities and programs with both continental and global development agendas within constantly changing science and innovation space. This strategic plan was developed through interactive, participatory, and consultative processes, integrating inputs from stakeholders across the ATPS network in Africa and overseas. A pivotal Stakeholders’ Forum held on 29 November 2023, in Nairobi, Kenya, facilitated the harmonization of these inputs into a comprehensive plan.

This strategic plan is aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which identifies science, technology, and innovation (STI) as critical drivers for achieving the continent’s development goals. The plan supports the implementation of the 10-year Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA-2024), part of the long-term African Union Agenda focused on STI-driven sustainable development and economic transformation. STISA-2024 emphasizes building a knowledge-based economy through enhanced technical and professional competencies, robust research infrastructure, thriving innovations, and a conducive policy environment.

Furthermore, the ATPS plan aligns with the global United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs), which encompass economic, social, and environmental dimensions of development, highlighting the interlinkages necessary for achieving sustainable development. These goals are encapsulated in 17 interlinked objectives with specific targets and indicators highlighting a transformative agenda for

The ATPS Strategic Plan is designed to be smart, durable, and forward-looking, with significant potential to impact socio-economic development at individual, institutional, national, regional, and continental levels. The plan aims to achieve several key outcomes through STI research, policy, and practice interventions. These outcomes include increased R&D expenditures in priority sectors (Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Security; Climate Change and Environment; Energy; Health; Creative Industries & Entrepreneurship; and Education & Technology), evidence-based research informing policy and decision-making, enhanced capacity in STI across all levels, and technological advancements addressing societal challenges such as hunger, unemployment, poverty, climate change, and diseases. Additionally, the plan seeks to empower youth and women, foster stakeholder interactions and knowledge exchange, support start-ups and entrepreneurs, and promote integration, collaboration, and partnerships among STI institutions across Africa. The plan also aims to provide a framework for the expansion of ATPS’s successes in previous and current programmes for enhanced impact in its coverage locations.

To implement its Phase IX Strategic Plan, ATPS will collaborate with like-minded institutions and partners. It has already signed various Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and Partnership Agreements (PAs) with institutions in Africa and beyond to support thematic priorities, programs, and projects. Moving forward, ATPS will continue to forge partnerships that enhance its mission and objectives, ensuring the successful implementation of its strategic plan from 2023 to 2028.