The O.R. Tambo Africa Research Chairs Initiative (ORTARChI) launched its first ten host institutions and individual research Chairholders on what would have been O.R.’s 103rd birthday. ORTARChI is an initiative between the Foundation, South Africa’s National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC), and seven councils of the Science Granting Councils Initiative in Sub-Saharan Africa (SGCI).
For the next five years, the Chairs at these public universities in seven countries across the African continent will conduct research and support high-end skills development on a diverse range of topics including climate, public health, entrepreneurship and youth employment. Aligned to the global concept of research Chairs, these world-class researchers will not only lead multidisciplinary research teams, but also train the next generation of researchers. ORTARChI provides five years of funding amounting to approximately $15million, granted after a rigorous review process and in recognition of institutional excellence and capacity in identified disciplines; commitment to supporting high-quality research leadership; and talent; as well as to individual, internationally-recognised researchers.
In addition to the support provided through the grant for postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows, funds will be provided by the NRF and the OATF for 55 African female doctoral students studying under the supervision of the respective Chairholders. Through international and regional strategic partnerships, the Chairs will contribute to the development of long-term, mutually beneficial, research collaboration on the African Continent.
To donate to the female doctoral students’ funding initiative, contact info@tambofoundation.org.za