The Pan African University Institute of Water and Energy Science, including, Climate Change (PAUWES) Celebrates Seventh (7th) Master's Graduation

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November 30, 2023

Tlemcen, Algeria - Over 60 students from 27 African countries received their advanced degrees during the seventh 7^th Master’s graduation ceremony at the Pan African University Institute for Water and Energy Sciences (PAUWES) on November 30, 2023.

The ceremony was presided over by Professor Jean Koulidiati, the newly appointed Rector of the Pan African University, the AU flagship academic institution comprised of five institutes settled in five African regions on the continent.

In his keynote address, the Burkinabe physics scholar with over 30 years of academic and leadership credentials, congratulated graduands for becoming shining examples of academic excellence, qualifying them as Ambassadors of the PAU brand in Africa and worldwide. He urged them to join the PAU alumni network, pursue entrepreneurial risks, further opportunities in their fields, and contribute meaningfully to African integration and growth.

Professor Koulidiati baptized the 2023 graduating class the “Joseph Ki-Zerbo” cohort, honoring the eminent Burkinabe historian and scholar.

Conferring degrees upon the 2023 graduation cohort, PAUWES Director Professor Abdellatif Zerga, highlighted strengthened cooperation between host country Algeria, PAU and long-term partner Germany. This alliance continues advancing research, careers empowerment and sustainable development solutions tailored for African youth at PAUWES.

The diverse 2023 graduating cohort gained extensive theoretical and practical training, including field research, to develop innovative solutions directly addressing Africa's sustainable development challenges. Their studies and projects aligned strategically with the African Union's Agenda 2063. With advanced expertise in renewable water, energy, climate change, and associated policy domains, PAUWES graduates stand ready to take on pressing challenges and contribute to sustainable socioeconomic growth across Africa.

Established in 2014, PAUWES focuses on renewable water resource, energy and climate change studies. Over 200 students graduated from its Master’s programmes so far.

The Institute maintains a strong commitment to gender parity and inclusion, with 50% female enrollment in 2018 specifically. This year’s graduates were 31% female, representing countries like Nigeria, Uganda and Botswana, among others, while degree specializations included Water Engineering, Water Policy, Energy Engineering, and Energy Policy.

The graduation ceremony, massively attended by local authorities, university officials, diplomats, graduands’ relatives and other guests, was the culmination of week-long activities, part of which were festivities aimed at promoting cultural diversity and African cooperation. Students also recited a poem on Agenda 2063.

On November 26, PAUWES Director, Professor Abdellatif Zerga, convened a Board Meeting to review administrative issues, progress and future directions with distinguished members. Alongside Professor Koulidiati, the Board welcomed the recent establishment of PAU’s African Entrepreneurship Hubs on PAU campuses, which foster startups and job creation.

Upon arrival of the PAU Rector in Tlemcen, the entire PAUWES student body proudly showcased traditional attire and performed vibrant songs and dances representing their home cultures, from Nigeria and Chad to Cote d’Ivoire and beyond. The event displayed Africa’s rich cultural tapestry woven across 27 represented nations.

For further information, please contact:

Ms. Claudette Chancelle BILAMPASSI MOUTSATSI |

PAU Communication Officer| Department of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation| African Union Commission| E-mail: BilampassiC@africa-union.org| Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.