The United States (US) has historically played a crucial role in shaping higher education and research in Africa through academic partnerships, funding initiatives, and scholarship programs. These collaborations have facilitated knowledge exchange, capacity building, and advancements in research across multiple disciplines.

However, recent US policy shifts threaten to alter these dynamics, affecting African higher education institutions and research endeavours, estimated at tens of billions of dollars. This article examines the implications of these policy changes for Africa and the US while exploring strategies for African universities to adapt and strengthen their global positioning.

Policy changes

A notable shift has occurred in US funding for international education and research collaborations. Previously, agencies like the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) provided substantial support for African research in climate change, public health, and technology. However, recent budgetary reallocations have led to reductions in some programs and a shift in priorities favouring domestic research interests. Stricter immigration policies have also raised concerns.

Extended processing times, increased scrutiny, and stringent work permit regulations will make it more difficult for African students and researchers to study and work in the US. Also, funding uncertainties in foreign aid initiatives, such as the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) and USAID’s education programs, have created instability for many African universities that rely on these partnerships.

Changes in intellectual property (IP) laws and restrictions on technology transfer could also limit African scholars’ access to critical research outputs, particularly in emerging fields like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy. These evolving US policies present both challenges and opportunities for African universities to reassess their academic strategies.

Higher education

One of the most immediate consequences is reduced student mobility and access to US-based education. Tough immigration regulations, increased tuition costs, and post-graduation work limitations make it harder for African students to pursue higher education in the US.

Delayed visa processing and higher rejection rates discourage many applicants, limiting their exposure to global academic networks and career prospects.

Cuts in US-sponsored scholarships and exchange programs further complicates the situation. Initiatives like the Fulbright Program and the Mandela Washington Fellowship have historically provided financial and academic support for African scholars, but their future remains uncertain.

Reduced scholarship opportunities disproportionately affect students from low-income backgrounds, widening the gap in access to quality education.

The impact extends beyond student access to curriculum development and faculty collaboration. Many African universities have benefited from joint research projects and faculty exchanges with US institutions. If these partnerships decline, institutions may struggle to adopt cutting-edge teaching methodologies and stay competitive in disciplines like artificial intelligence and environmental sustainability. Limited access to US research resources could slow innovation and knowledge production in Africa.

Impact on research

US policy changes also threaten research funding and international collaboration. Historically, African universities have relied on US grants for studies in public health, climate change, agriculture, and technology. Budget reductions and increased prioritisation of domestic research may limit these funding streams, slowing progress in key scientific areas.

Collaboration opportunities with US institutions are also affected. African researchers have long benefited from access to advanced methodologies, laboratory facilities, and academic mentorship in the US. However, stricter visa regulations and reduced funding for academic exchanges could weaken knowledge transfer, resulting in fewer co-authored publications between African and US scholars.

Access to scientific and technological resources is another area of concern. Many African researchers depend on US-based databases, laboratory equipment, and specialised software. Restrictions on technology transfer, intellectual property regulations, and rising costs of accessing research tools could make it more difficult for African institutions to remain competitive. Moreover, limited exposure to emerging fields like artificial intelligence and renewable energy could slow Africa’s progress in these transformative industries.

These challenges raise concerns about brain drain and talent retention. If research funding and academic mobility continue to decline, African scholars may seek opportunities in Europe, Asia, or other regions. This could result in a loss of skilled researchers essential for driving innovation in Africa.

However, the situation also presents an opportunity for African governments and institutions to build stronger local research ecosystems. Increased national research funding, enhanced intra-African collaborations, and the establishment of innovation hubs could help retain top talent and reduce dependence on external funding.

Stands to lose

The US policy changes not only impact African institutions but also result in significant losses for the United States itself.

Reduced international student intake means a loss of top African talent in STEM and innovation. Many African students in the US contribute to groundbreaking research in engineering, medicine, and technology. By limiting access, the US risks losing valuable intellectual capital.

Declining collaboration weakens US leadership in global research and knowledge production. US institutions have historically benefited from diverse perspectives and contributions from African researchers. Reduced engagement may hinder innovation and limit the impact of US-based research on global issues.

International students contribute billions to the US economy. Tuition fees, housing expenses, and consumer spending from African students support local economies. Unfriendly visa regulations and reduced scholarships could push students to Canada, Europe, or China, resulting in financial losses for US universities and businesses.

Weaker educational ties reduce US cultural and diplomatic influence in Africa. Education has been a key pillar of US-Africa relations, fostering goodwill and long-term diplomatic ties. A decline in student exchange programs and research partnerships could weaken the US’s influence while allowing other global powers to expand their presence.

While these policy shifts may aim to prioritise domestic interests, they ultimately diminish the US’s role as a global leader in education, research, and international collaboration.

To mitigate the negative impacts of shifting US policies, African universities and researchers must adopt strategic responses that safeguard academic progress.

African universities can deepen partnerships with institutions across the continent and in the Global South, including Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Platforms such as the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) and the Pan African University (PAU) facilitate collaborative research, knowledge exchange, and faculty mobility. Strengthening regional networks can reduce reliance on US institutions and create robust academic ecosystems that support innovation and capacity building.

Governments, private sector stakeholders, and philanthropic organisations must increase investments in higher education and research. National research grant programs, university-industry linkages, and public-private partnerships can provide alternative funding sources for scholars. Universities can also explore innovative financing models such as endowment funds and venture capital support for research-driven startups.

Beyond the US, African universities can cultivate relationships with countries like China, India, Germany, among others. Programs such as China’s Belt and Road Initiative in higher education, India’s Africa Scholarship Scheme, and the European Union’s Horizon Europe funding offer new opportunities. Diversifying international partnerships ensures access to alternative funding, technological resources, and capacity-building initiatives.

African universities and policymakers must actively engage with international institutions and regional policy bodies to advocate for fair and inclusive higher education policies. Strengthening the African Union’s role in shaping education diplomacy can help protect Africa’s academic interests. Universities should also collaborate with global education networks to push for equitable access to research funding, student mobility programs, and technology transfer.

While US policy shifts could limit African scholars’ access to global research networks, disrupt student mobility, and slow innovation in key sectors, they also present an opportunity for African institutions to build a more resilient, self-sustaining, globally competitive academic and research ecosystems.

The Author is a Professor of Chemistry at University of Eldoret, a former Vice-Chancellor, and a Quality Assurance Expert