By Siviwe Mxuma

 

Rhodes University’s celebration of its 120th anniversary was marked by a significant event on 22 April 2024 – the launch of the EU-funded collaboration project Nature-based Solutions for African Resilience (NbS4AfrRes).

Aptly timed on Earth Day, this launch symbolised a commitment not just to commemorate the past but to shape a sustainable future for Africa.

The NbS4AfrRes project consortium, a formidable alliance comprising two South African universities, Rhodes University and the University of Cape Town, alongside two Senegalese institutions, Ecole Polytechnique de Thies and Université Cheikh Anta Diop, together with three esteemed partners from the EU — TÜ Delft (Netherlands), AgroParisTech (France), and Institut National de Recherche Pour L’Agricuture, L’alimentation et L’Environnement (INRAE, France) — embarks on a mission to enhance the capacity of both current environmental specialists and future professionals.

At the heart of this initiative lies a shared commitment to promoting Nature-based Solutions (NbS) as a cornerstone for climate resilience. With NbS gaining prominence on the agendas of global, continental, and national policies, the project endeavours to integrate these solutions into higher education curricula. By doing so, it seeks to empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate a rapidly changing world, while also equipping current professionals with specialised training courses to address pressing environmental challenges.

Dr Nomakwezi Mzilikazi, Rhodes University Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships, set the tone for the event with her impassioned opening address, highlighting the critical importance of embracing nature-inspired solutions in the face of unprecedented environmental threats.

She underscored the project's overarching objective of fostering a harmonious coexistence with nature, emphasising the transformative potential of collaborative efforts and innovative approaches. "The project's overall objective is to enhance the capability of future professionals through updated curriculum at four African higher education institutions in South Africa and internationally. The project will also build capacity of current environmental specialists and engineers for facilitating climate resilience in Africa. In the face of unprecedented environmental challenges, it is critical that we look to the wisdom of nature for guidance and solutions. Through collaborative efforts and innovative approaches, the project aims to restore and protect our planet's ecosystems and show a harmonious coexistence with nature. Nature-based solutions hold the promise for a healthier, more resilient future.”

The attendees were treated to a compelling video presentation by NbS4AfrRes, illustrating the urgent need for action in the face of climate-induced destruction.

Against this backdrop, Professor Sizwe Mabizela, the Vice-Chancellor of Rhodes University, reflected on the significance of the launch, coinciding with the University's 120th anniversary. He emphasised Rhodes University's commitment to nurturing future leaders and professionals, recognising the interconnectedness of global challenges that transcend geographic, social, and economic boundaries. "I sincerely hope this project will help deepen our knowledge and understanding of the interrelatedness and the inseparability of economic development, environmental justice, social justice, human rights and sustainable development – and that through this knowledge, we can act, individually and collectively to protect and preserve our planet, mitigate the impact of climate change, and build a more resilient future for generations to come."

The distinguished guests, including Vice Chancellor Prof. Aminata Niang Diéne from Universite Chiekh Anta Diop, Director Prof. Alassane Diéne from Ecole Polytechnique de Theiés, and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Daya Reddy from the University of Cape Town, expressed their enthusiasm for the project, underscoring its potential to drive meaningful change in Africa and beyond.

Ms Elodie Popenda, Head of European Affairs, AgroParisTech Mr Laurent Buisson, Dean of AgroParisTech, and Mr Willem van Valkenburg, Executive Director, TU Delft Extension School, emphasised the importance of engaging young people in nature-based solutions, highlighting the pivotal role of education in shaping a sustainable future. Ms Paivi Hernesniemi, the Project Coordinator from the European Union Erasmus+, stressed the need for genuine collaboration between higher education institutions and various stakeholders, emphasising the importance of curriculum development in driving the project forward.

As the event drew to a close, Dr Mzilikazi, expressed gratitude to all dignitaries and stakeholders for their unwavering commitment to the project's success. She reiterated Rhodes University's proud tradition of fostering collaboration and excellence in research and education, reaffirming its dedication to building a more resilient future for generations to come.

The launch of the NbS4AfrRes project marks a pivotal moment in Rhodes University's history, as it redoubles its efforts to address pressing environmental challenges through education, research, and collaboration. As the project gains momentum, it holds the promise of not only enhancing climate resilience in Africa but also inspiring global action towards a more sustainable and equitable world.