The Centre for Applied Research and Innovation in Supply Chain, Africa (CARISCA), based at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kühne Foundation, through its Learn Logistics programme, to formalise a strategic partnership aimed at transforming logistics and supply chain education across Africa.
This marks a new chapter in CARISCA’s operations following its transition into a Centre of Excellence, independent of USAID funding. The Kühne Foundation has stepped in to provide sustained funding for the Centre’s activities over the next three years.
Professor Nathaniel Boso, Director of CARISCA, expressed gratitude to the Kühne Foundation for its swift and generous support, which began even before formal discussions were concluded.
“For the past three months, Learn Logistics has graciously supported CARISCA by covering staff salaries and ongoing activities, bridging the gap left by USAID’s disengagement,” Professor Boso noted. “This MoU formalises our collaboration, with the Foundation taking over CARISCA’s funding for the next three years. But more importantly, we are working together to elevate logistics and supply chain education across the African continent.”
Dr. Andre Kreie, Director of Global Logistics Education at the Kühne Foundation, highlighted the Foundation’s long-standing commitment to logistics. He explained that the Switzerland-based Foundation, linked to a logistics magnate, supports education, research, culture, medicine, and, more recently, climate change.
“We work with different universities to help develop capacities in logistics and supply chain management. This includes scholarships for interns and support for research activities, initiatives very similar to what CARISCA and KNUST did together with Arizona State University,” Dr. Kreie said.
He added that the Foundation, impressed by CARISCA’s progress and impact, stepped in with interim support following the end of USAID funding and now looks forward to formal engagement from July and continued collaboration.
The Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, reaffirmed the university’s unwavering commitment to the CARISCA project and the new partnership.
“At KNUST, we never tire of supporting our partners,” she said. “This is not a short-lived relationship; we are in this for the long haul. As you extend your impact across the sub-region and the continent, KNUST will serve as a backbone to connect you with other institutions.”
Professor Dickson also underscored the central role of logistics and supply chain management in development across all sectors including healthcare, food security, shelter, and climate action.
“If logistics and supply chain systems are not functioning well, no sector can perform at its peak. We are proud of CARISCA’s work, and we believe this partnership will amplify its impact.”
