The Building Stronger Universities (BSU) initiative launched in 2011 with the aim of strengthening institutional capacity of Southern Universities. The fourth phase of the programme runs from May 2023 – April 2028 and provides funding to three universities in East Africa, namely Gulu University (GU) in Uganda, University of Hargeisa (UOH) in Somaliland, and State University of Zanzibar (SUZA) in Tanzania.
Danida Fellowship Centre (DFC) manages the Building Stronger Universities programme (BSU) on behalf of the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). The aim of the programme is to enhance the role of selected African universities as providers of scientific knowledge and research-based education while also aiming at increasing the research uptake by society.
The midterm review of the Building Stronger Universities (BSU) Phase III highlights success in enhancing research capacity and institutional autonomy in the Global South. The partnership model effectively fosters South-South-North collaboration, driving sustainable academic growth and local ownership. The review confirms progress in doctoral training and grant management, recommending strategic adjustments to align research with national development goals. This initiative continues to strengthen the capacity of universities to address local challenges.
