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Virtual Networking Exchange
8th of April 2026

REGISTER

We’re excited to invite you to a Virtual Networking Exchange on Wednesday, 8 April 2026, from 2-5 pm CAT. This free online event will offer the opportunity to meet and interact with DS-I Africa projects, Data Science Communities working on data science and health in Africa, and the Private sector and stakeholders leveraging data science for health research in Africa! 

The theme for this  Virtual Networking Exchange is Strengthening Collaborative Pathways for Sustainable Impact: Building the Future of Data Science in Africa Together

The upcoming  Virtual Networking Exchange will serve as a dynamic platform for showcasing the consortium’s expanding ecosystem of data science innovation across the continent. The event will bring together researchers, practitioners, industry leaders, and policy stakeholders to highlight how interdisciplinary teams are leveraging data science, ML/AI, and digital technologies to address Africa’s most pressing health and development challenges.

Through interactive dialogues, project spotlights, and demonstrations, attendeees will gain direct insight into DS-I Africa’s collaborative infrastructure, research excellence, and emerging tools designed to advance scientific discovery and strengthen health systems.

In addition to highlighting scientific achievements, the  Virtual Networking Exchange is designed to attract new partners and funders by emphasizing tangible outputs, scalable research products, and opportunities for joint investment. 

Expected outcomes include

  • the formation of new strategic partnerships, 
  • increased visibility for ongoing innovations, 
  • identification of funding pathways for high-impact projects, 
  • the development of cross-consortium collaborations that accelerate translation and sustainability. 

How it works

The Virtual Networking Exchange is an informal networking event which provides an opportunity for members of the DS-I Africa consortium and other data science communities to to learn about the participating organizations. One week before the event, participants can learn about the different participating organizations through an interactive website. On the day of the event, participants will log in to the introductory session where they’ll receive information about the event. Participants will then choose a breakout room to visit. In each breakout room, participants will hear a short presentation from featured organizations/projects and can ask questions to the presenter. Participants are welcome to move around to different Zoom rooms to learn about several organizations. After an allotted time, the breakout rooms will close and participants will join a new round of networking with different organizations.

How to participate

Participants who indicate an interest in presenting on behalf of an organization, data science communities, or private sector may represent their organization on the agenda for the event. They will have a Zoom breakout room for an allotted time during which they can share information about their organization and interact with participants.

Note: There are a limited number of presenter slots available so please register as soon as possible. 

Whether you're a seasoned data scientist or just starting your journey, this is an invaluable chance to network, learn, and collaborate with a vibrant community of peers.

More information on the Virtual Networking Exchange and registration is available on the DS-I Africa website: https://dsi-africa.org/networking-exchanges/7th