Where is SASUF Heading?
The South Africa–Sweden University Forum (SASUF) began its journey in 2018 as a groundbreaking initiative to foster collaboration between Swedish and South African universities in research, education, and innovation. After the success of its first funded phase (2018–2020), SASUF entered its second funded phase (2022–2024), during which the partnership expanded and deepened across multiple institutions and disciplines.
As we approach the end of the second phase, efforts are underway to plan for the future of SASUF beyond 2024. A dedicated working group, representing universities from both countries, is developing a proposal for a new phase spanning 2025–2028. This proposal, shaped by feedback from all partner institutions, evaluations of past activities, and global trends, will be submitted for funding during the first half of 2025.
Some of the main areas that are in the pipeline for the new SASUF period are:
Strengthen virtual collaborations and other models for international partnerships by utilising technology to enhance teaching, learning and research
Strengthen the relevance of SASUF from an AU/EU policy perspective
Open up the network for relevant higher education institutions and funding agencies from the African continent
Identify mutually relevant ways for collaboration with industry and the surrounding society in both countries
Broadened opportunities for student participation in research projects
While these plans take shape, we remain committed to keeping our community informed. Updates on the progression of SASUF’s future and its continuation will be shared throughout 2025. In the meantime, we encourage you to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook, where we will highlight ongoing activities, success stories, and key announcements. Together, we look forward to building on SASUF’s strong foundation and advancing impactful collaboration between our countries.
If you’ve been involved in SASUF activities, whether as an alumnus, researcher, or partner, we invite you to share your experiences and insight. Your feedback is crucial to shaping the next phase of SASUF!