16th Annual Workshops and Conference: Embracing Innovation in Research Management
WARIMA successfully concluded its 16th Annual Workshops and Conference in Lomé, Togo, from 27th to 30th January 2025, under the theme “Innovation and Technology in Research Management: Transforming West African Research Landscapes.” The conference, hosted by the University of Lomé, brought together research management professionals, academics, and innovation leaders from across West Africa and beyond to explore cutting-edge approaches to research administration and management. Hosted in partnership with regional and international organisations, the event provided a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, professional development, and strategic networking among West Africa’s research management community.
Delivering his opening address, Mr. Dembo Kanteh, President of WARIMA, emphasised the critical importance of embracing technological innovation in research management. “As we navigate an increasingly complex research environment, we must harness the power of emerging technologies to enhance our research management capabilities,” he stated. “This conference represents our collective commitment to positioning West African research institutions at the forefront of global research excellence through innovative management practices.”
The conference featured compelling presentations that addressed both traditional challenges and emerging opportunities in research management. A presentation by Samba Lamine Cisse from the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTTB) explored “Navigating a Changing Landscape: Opportunities and Challenges for Research Managers.” His presentation examined how research project management is evolving in response to digital technologies, multidisciplinary collaboration, open science initiatives, and the growing demand for high-impact research outcomes.
The event also showcased enlightening technological applications through Umri Uriyo’s presentation on “Forecast and Co-pilot: The Combination of Two Artificial Intelligence (AI) Applications Capable of Revolutionising Project Management Practices.” As Project Operations Officer at the Institut de Recherche en Santé, de Surveillance Epidémiologique et de Formation (IRESSEF), Uriyo demonstrated practical AI applications that can significantly enhance efficiency and effectiveness in research project execution.
The conference’s parallel sessions facilitated cross-institutional learning and explored innovative strategies for amplifying research impact, mobilising funding, and strengthening research infrastructure across the region. These sessions provided valuable opportunities for participants to share experiences, challenges, and solutions while building collaborative networks for future partnerships.
WARIMA extends its gratitude to all partners who supported this year’s workshops and conference, recognising that strategic relationships exemplify the collaborative spirit essential for advancing research excellence across West Africa and demonstrate how strategic investments in professional development can strengthen the region’s research ecosystem.
Speaking about the conference’s impact, participants highlighted the value of connecting with diverse research management professionals from across the continent. The event not only strengthened individual expertise but also opened new avenues for collaboration and career advancement, enabling participants to contribute more effectively to the evolving research landscape in West Africa.
The conference was preceded by intensive Pre-Conference Workshops from 27th to 28th January 2025, which provided hands-on training in specialised research management topics and emerging technologies.
The success of the 16th Annual Conference underscores WARIMA’s vital role in building robust research management capabilities across the region and positions the association to continue leading efforts in advancing research and innovation management throughout West Africa.