While numbers and statistics show the reach of ARISE II, it is the personal stories of its scholars that truly highlight its impact. These are the voices of students and staff who have stepped beyond their comfort zones, crossed borders, and returned home transformed — both academically and personally.
The Africa Regional International Staff / Student Exchange (ARISE II) Programme offers more than just mobility. It provides growth, global exposure, and a renewed sense of purpose to the individuals who participate. Here are just a few examples of how this programme is changing lives across the continent.
From Kenya to Ghana: A Future Food Scientist Rises
Grace, a Master’s student from Nairobi, had always dreamed of contributing to food sustainability in East Africa. Through ARISE II, she secured a placement at the University of Ghana, where she conducted research on crop preservation techniques using local, affordable materials.
During her stay, Grace collaborated with professors and farmers to test storage systems in rural areas. Her research not only earned her recognition from her host university but was later implemented in farming co-operatives back home in Kenya.
Grace says, “Without ARISE II, I would never have had the resources or platform to share my ideas. Now, I know my work is helping small farmers reduce post-harvest loss.”
Rebuilding Confidence Through Collaboration
Samuel, a young researcher from Nigeria, had never left his home country before being selected for a six-month exchange in Zambia. Initially nervous, Samuel was quickly welcomed into the university’s research department, where he joined a team studying renewable energy solutions for rural clinics.
Over time, Samuel contributed original ideas on solar panel efficiency and even co-authored a journal article with his new mentors. His experience boosted his confidence and opened doors to further funding and project work in Nigeria.
He shares, “This opportunity helped me grow not just as a scientist but as a person. I now mentor others in my institution to apply for international programmes.”
Supporting Disadvantaged Women to Become Leaders
Amina, a single mother from Tanzania, had faced social and economic obstacles in her pursuit of higher education. But ARISE II specifically encouraged applications from women like her. She was selected for a PhD exchange programme in Malawi, where she studied maternal health challenges in rural communities.
Her work focused on bridging local cultural practices with healthcare policy. Amina’s findings are now being reviewed by district health authorities in both countries. More importantly, her success has inspired other women in her hometown to return to school and believe in their potential.
“ARISE II gave me my voice back,” Amina explains. “I am now seen as a researcher, a mother, and a leader.”
A Pan-African Network That Keeps Giving
One of ARISE II’s greatest strengths is its ability to build lasting connections. Scholars don’t just travel and return — they stay in touch, collaborate online, and even meet at future conferences. These networks lead to continued joint research, cross-border policy recommendations, and pan-African solutions to regional problems.
Many alumni of the programme have gone on to:
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Publish peer-reviewed research
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Secure international PhD or postdoctoral fellowships
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Influence agricultural or health policy in their countries
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Establish community training programmes
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Mentor new applicants to ARISE II
In conclusion, ARISE II is more than just an academic exchange. It is a movement of transformation, driven by individual stories of resilience, ambition, and collaboration. Through these journeys, ARISE II is shaping a generation of African scholars who are not only qualified — they are empowered to lead change where it is needed most.
