ACE-DS hosts regional seminar on text and data mining to strengthen research and innovation in Africa

The University of Rwanda, through its African Centre of Excellence in Data Science (ACEDS), has welcomed experts, researchers, policymakers, and higher education leaders from across Africa for a two-day Regional Seminar on Text and Data Mining (TDM) for Universities and Research-Oriented Institutions in Africa.

The seminar took place from 2^nd through 3^rd June and was organized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in collaboration with ACE-DS to strengthen research capacity and promote innovation in African universities and research institutions.

The seminar forms part of WIPO's ongoing initiative to support research and innovation by increasing awareness of Text and Data Mining and equipping researchers and institutions with the knowledge and skills needed to harness data-driven technologies for scientific advancement.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the University of Rwanda's Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration, Dr. Raymond Ndikumana, underscored the importance of Text and Data Mining in accelerating research, innovation, and evidence-based decision-making across Africa.

He encouraged participants to take full advantage of the seminar by deepening their understanding of emerging issues, including copyright and legal considerations in Text and Data Mining, as well as the application of TDM in drug discovery within resource-constrained African research environments.

"The University of Rwanda remains committed to partnering with universities across the continent in this important endeavor as we continue to promote research and innovation," Dr. Ndikumana said.

Throughout the seminar, participants explored practical strategies for strengthening Africa's research ecosystem through data-driven approaches. Discussions focused on addressing data and capacity challenges, bridging the continent's digital and data skills gap, and enhancing collaboration among universities, research institutions, governments, and innovation stakeholders.

The seminar also provides an important platform for exchanging experiences and best practices on the responsible use of Text and Data Mining to support scientific research, knowledge creation, and sustainable development.

As a regional leader in data science education and research, ACEDS continues to advance the University of Rwanda's mission of delivering high-quality research, fostering innovation, and building partnerships that address Africa's development priorities.

By hosting initiatives such as this seminar, the University reaffirms its commitment to strengthening research excellence and positioning Africa's higher education institutions to fully leverage data and emerging technologies for socio-economic transformation.