On 28 and 29 September 2026, the Agence universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF) organizes in Dakar the Regional Conference of Rectors (C2R) in West Africa, in parallel with the Research & Innovation Days co-hosted with OASCP and funded by the European Union. The event places at the heart of the debate the transformation of research results into innovations useful to the economy and society.
The Senegalese capital will be the hub of regional academic and scientific reflection for two days. Created in 2023 in Dakar, Regional Conference of Rectors (C2R) brings together the rectors and presidents of universities members of AUF in West Africa. This edition 2026 promises decisive: it aims to bring the search for the concrete needs of African companies and societies closer together.
The opening session, entitled « Dialogue on research and innovation : Africa / Europe », will bring together leading figures, including Professor Nassirou Bako-Arifari, Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs of ECOWAS, and H.E. Mrs Aude Maio-Coliche, Ambassador of the European Union in Senegal. The debate will be moderated by Professor Slim Khalbous, Rector of AUF.
From innovations to the market: the journey of researchers and entrepreneurs
The first panel will give the floor to researchers-entrepreneurs whose innovations have crossed the path of valorisation and commercialization. The second panel will explore the university-industry link, a crucial question for adapting research to the needs of the economic fabric.
Finally, a third panel will address the financing of research and innovation, highlighting available instruments, risk sharing and new alliances between states, development banks, international partners and the private sector.
A regional and international event
Rectors, researchers, innovators, representatives of regional and international institutions and private sector actors are expected in Dakar. The event illustrates the desire of the UFA and its partners to strengthen research and innovation capacities in the region, in line with sustainable development objectives.
Beyond panels and exchanges, the Regional Conference of Rectors and Research & Innovation Days reflect an ambition: to make research a lever for economic and social transformation in West Africa. Dakar, the cradle of the C2R, confirms its role as the regional intellectual and scientific capital.
Mamadou SY
