PAU Pan-African University

    In 2008, the Commission of the African Union decided to found the Pan-African University (External link) (PAU). It aims to contribute to social and economic development in Africa as a leading institution for teaching and research. The PAU’s institutes are based at existing universities in North, West, East, Southern and Central Africa. The rectorate is located in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

    The PAU’s five institutes and virtual formats aim to offer high-quality post-graduate education, foster entrepreneurship and employability, and connect with the private and public sectors and political decision-makers. In addition, the institutes contribute to applied research in key areas of sustainable development and act as networking hubs for other African universities.

    International partners act as sponsors for specific locations. Through donor support, study programmes have been expanded at master’s and doctorate level. Students from all over Africa are invited to apply for study places and scholarships, with the enrolment of women being particularly encouraged.

    Since the Pan-African University was founded, over 740 people from more than 30 African countries have graduated from its study programmes. The number of applicants has risen markedly since 2014.


    Germany’s contribution to establishing the PAU

    In 2010, a PAU steering group led by the BMZ was created in Germany to support the establishment of the Pan-African University. The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), the Federal Foreign Office, GIZ, KfW Development Bank and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) were also involved.

    Germany is partnering with the PAU Institute of Water and Energy Sciences (including Climate Change), PAUWES, which was set up at the University of Abou Bekr Belkaid in Tlemcen, Algeria. It offers international master’s and doctoral programmes for African students.

    This cooperation includes development policy instruments (financial support, advisory services) alongside university and research cooperation with partners from Germany and around the world. The teaching and research content of the four master’s programmes in the areas of energy and water were developed by experts from both the scientific community and the practical field – a best practice model that serves as a pattern for other PAU institutes. The teaching and research has a practical focus, which is ensured through close collaboration with the private sector.

    As at: 26/07/2023