The second annual Africa-U.S. Presidential Forum, hosted on Castle Point in the University Center Complex’s TechFlex for the first time (the event was last held at Rutgers University) in collaboration with the Nekotech Center of Excellence, brought together leaders from across the African continent, technical experts, and state officials for a day dedicated to advancing educational opportunities in STEM for African students. The forum, held on September 19, focused on promoting access to advanced degree programs in artificial intelligence and MBA programs tailored to technically minded scholars. This year’s event marks a deepening partnership between Stevens and Nekotech and a broader effort to enhance Africa’s position in the global technology and innovation landscape. The Stute had the opportunity to speak with President Farvardin about the event and learn more.
At the heart of the forum is a shared vision between Stevens and Nekotech: to create a pipeline of highly skilled African students equipped to transform their home countries and industries. Nekotech, co-founded by H.E. Rev. Dr. Princess Asie K. Ocansey of Ghana, has spent years fostering these educational ties, placing students at U.S. universities through a combination of unsecured loans, sponsorships, and prep scholarships. The initiative aims to support 10,000 African students annually, with a recently announced $1 billion allocation for educational loans over the next five years.
Dr. Ocansey, who co-chaired the event alongside Stevens President Nariman Farvardin, emphasized the transformative power of education in addressing Africa’s economic needs. “Through this sponsorship, we aim not only to transform the lives of individual students by empowering them with the skills to shape technological progress but also to strengthen the economies of Africa,” said Ocansey. The event also highlighted Stevens’ commitment to serving as a hub for the next generation of African innovators.
President Farvardin underscored the importance of preparing students for an unpredictable technological future. “At Stevens, we do not just prepare students to master the technologies of today; we equip them with the agility to excel in the technologies of tomorrow,” said President Farvardin. “This mindset ensures our students can thrive in rapidly changing environments.”
This year’s forum intentionally coincided with the United Nations General Assembly, drawing African dignitaries already in the region. Dignitaries included a king from Ghana, the President of Malawi, and approximately 60 ministers and vice presidents from various African nations, including Ghana, Malawi, Chad, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Zambia.
Many noted the cultural richness of the event, with President Farvardin describing it as a fantastic evening with speeches, food, and culture featuring a unique mix of traditions. A notable feature of the evening was the presence of Ghanaian royalty seated on elaborate thrones, with additional seats reserved for other esteemed guests, including a queen from Ghana.
Stevens’ Dina Iskaros, Director of Graduate Admissions, was instrumental in organizing the event, ensuring that the logistics were seamless, with a wide range of African nations represented. Much from Iskaros’s work, the event had plans for every detail, coordinating everything from the awards ceremony to the themed chocolate bars made for the occasion — one each featuring the King of Ghana, the President of Malawi, and President Farvardin himself.
Nekotech’s work ensures that students receive a world-renowned education and then return to their homes. As the forum continues to grow, Stevens and Nekotech hope that more African students will take advantage of these educational opportunities, contributing to Africa’s long-term economic and technological development.
With this year’s forum’s success, Stevens has already extended an invitation to host next year’s event. President Farvardin noted that everyone seemed to rejoice at the evening’s success, adding that both Stevens and Nekotech were honored to have facilitated such meaningful conversations and collaborations.
As Africa continues to invest in STEM education, partnerships like the one between Stevens and Nekotech will play a critical role in shaping the continent’s future. They will prepare a new generation of leaders to address global challenges through technological innovation.
