Africa Oxford Initiative Recognised for Outstanding Contribution at the Vice-Chancellor's Awards 2024

The Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx) has been recognized in the 2024 Vice-Chancellor's Awards by winning the inaugural Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Contribution. There were 250 entries across the 11 categories this year, with 1,500 individuals nominated.

This award was given to the AfOx team for its range of activities aligned with the University’s strategic aims, including facilitating effective and equitable research collaborations and significantly increasing opportunities for African graduate students at Oxford. Additionally, the award recognized AfOx's contributions to increasing diversity at the University of Oxford and its partnerships with external groups, both nationally and internationally, that make a positive impact in Oxford and globally.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Irene Tracey, CBE FRS FMedSci, praised the AfOx team for the way they have worked tirelessly and collaboratively over several years to make a positive difference in pursuit of the University's academic mission.

The Vice-Chancellor's Awards recognize the achievements and celebrate success across the University—from academics and researchers to professional, technical, and support staff, whether they are in colleges, divisions, departments, central services, libraries, museums, or elsewhere.

In response to the award, Dr. Anne Makena, Co-Director of the Africa Oxford Initiative, shared her enthusiasm and the broader vision that drives the initiative:

"We are deeply honored and humbled by this award, which reflects both the hard work of our incredible team and the strength and depth of our partnerships across Africa. At AfOx, we believe that true excellence in research and education can only be achieved through inclusive, equitable, and impactful collaborations. We congratulate all the nominated projects and are grateful for the vote of confidence from the Vice-Chancellor, our Oxford colleagues, and our partners across the continent. This award inspires us to continue our efforts in building bridges between Oxford and African institutions, fostering environments where diverse perspectives thrive."

For more information about the Vice-Chancellor's Awards and the impactful work being recognized this year, please click here.