What if the future of research is determined not by the strength of individual institutions, but by the connections between them?
This thought-provoking question set the stage for one of the most engaging discussions at the Second Africa–Europe Clusters of Research Excellence (CoRE) Conference, hosted by the University of Glasgow, where researchers and higher education leaders from across Africa and Europe gathered to reimagine how international partnerships can address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Representing the University of Johannesburg’s Postharvest and Agroprocessing Research Centre (PARC), Founding Director Prof. Olaniyi Fawole joined the CoRE-SFS (Sustainable Food Systems) parallel session, “Networking the Networks for Enhanced Impact,” contributing to conversations on how research collaboration must evolve beyond individual projects and institutions towards interconnected ecosystems that generate lasting societal impact.
Rather than focusing solely on research outputs, the session explored how universities, research institutes, industry, policymakers, entrepreneurs, development agencies, and communities can work collectively to strengthen sustainable food systems, improve innovation, and build resilient research ecosystems.
Drawing on PARC’s experience in developing impactful research programmes and international collaborations, Prof. Fawole highlighted the importance of moving beyond conventional partnerships to build networks that are intentional, inclusive, and mission-driven.
“Individual institutions create excellence. Networks create scale. Networks of networks create transformation,” he remarked during the discussion.
His contribution resonated with the broader objectives of the CoRE initiative, which seeks to strengthen equitable Africa–Europe partnerships, promote researcher mobility, develop future research leaders, and accelerate scientific solutions to shared global challenges.
The conference also provided a valuable platform for researchers, policymakers, funding organisations, and academic leaders to exchange ideas, identify new opportunities for collaboration, and strengthen relationships that will shape the future of research and innovation across both continents.
For PARC, participation in the conference reflects the Centre’s commitment to building globally connected research that extends beyond scientific discovery to influence policy, drive innovation, strengthen food systems, and contribute to sustainable development.
As international collaboration continues to play an increasingly important role in solving complex societal challenges, PARC remains committed to fostering partnerships that connect expertise, share knowledge, and translate research into meaningful impact for communities in South Africa, across Africa, and beyond.
- Date: 14-17 June 2026
- Location: University of Glasgow, United Kingdom