SPI participates in the global service facility 14 workshop on AI for facilitating and strengthening R&I

As part of its ongoing commitment to strengthening international research and innovation between EU and AU partnerships, SPI took part in the 4th Workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Facilitating and Strengthening R&I at the Africa-Europe Interface, held on 15 April 2025 during GITEX Africa in Marrakech, Morocco.

This high-level event, organised under the Global Service Facility 14 framework, is part of a broader effort to implement the AU-EU Innovation Agenda (2023–2033). The workshop highlighted the transformative potential of AI in boosting scientific cooperation, knowledge exchange, and innovation across the African and European continents.

SPI team led by Andre Almeida organised the 4th Workshop promoting the discussion of AI as a catalyst for cross-border collaboration in strategic priority areas such as climate change, food security, sustainable agriculture, public health, and energy. SPI’s involvement reinforced its active role in supporting knowledge-based development and digital transformation across regions.

The SPI team engaged with researchers, innovators, and policy stakeholders, exploring the integration of AI tools to streamline project management, enhance research translation, and build resilient R&I ecosystems.

SPI also contributed to the documentation process, supporting the event’s aim to produce a comprehensive summary report highlighting actionable insights and follow-up measures to enhance the AU-EU Innovation Agenda’s AI dimension. Additionally, the training sessions were recorded and will be made publicly available via the European Commission’s official YouTube channel.

By actively participating in this pivotal workshop, SPI continues to support sustainable and inclusive international innovation efforts, contributing to long-term partnerships between Europe and Africa in the digital age.