Academy of Technology and the Physical Sciences

Artificial Intelligence

The Academy’s focus on AI and Data Science drives Africa’s leap into intelligent technologies that can analyse and predict real-world systems. Through the Laboratory Institute for the Frontiers in AI and Data Science, we pursue cutting-edge research in machine intelligence, data engineering, algorithmic foundations, and high-impact applications—from agriculture and health to industry and national infrastructure. Our aim is to build Africa’s capacity not only to use AI, but to create it, shaping homegrown models, tools, and scientific breakthroughs that strengthen the continent’s technological sovereignty.

Quantum Technologies

Societies that master quantum technologies may solve previously intractable problems in science, energy, healthcare, and logistics, create entirely new industries, and secure strategic advantage in the information and knowledge economy. Through the Laboratory Institute for the Frontiers in Quantum Technologies, we investigate quantum computing, quantum information theory, and advanced measurement systems, developing tools and methods that push the limits of precision, speed, and security. Our work positions Africa to contribute to and lead in the emerging quantum era, enabling transformative applications across science, industry, and national infrastructure.

Power Systems

Reliable, efficient, and sustainable energy underpins the stability and growth of societies. Through the Laboratory Institute for the Frontiers in Power and Energy Systems, we investigate generation, transmission, storage, and smart distribution technologies, integrating advanced materials, control systems, and renewable solutions. Our work strengthens energy security, improves efficiency, and empowers Africa to build resilient infrastructure that supports industry, communities, and the transition to a technologically advanced civilisation.

Water

Access to clean water and effective sanitation is fundamental to human health, societal resilience, and economic development. Through the Laboratory Institute for the Frontiers in Water Technologies and Sanitation, we develop innovative systems for water treatment, distribution, monitoring, and wastewater management. Our work advances sustainable water infrastructure, protects communities from waterborne risks, and equips Africa with the technologies and knowledge needed to secure vital resources for thriving societies.p>

Robotics and Automatiom

Intelligent, autonomous, and practical machines empower Africa to boost productivity, modernise infrastructure, enhance agriculture and healthcare, and build homegrown technological leadership—positioning the continent to thrive in the rapidly evolving global economy. The Institute for the Frontiers in Embedded Systems, Robotics and Automation tests, implements, and extends these cutting-edge technological concepts. Our work drives resilience in African industries, infrastructure, and services—creating locally-relevant technologies that strengthen productivity, improve livelihoods, and expand the continent’s capacity to innovate and compete globally.

Continental Connectivity

Cyber-physical infrastructure may very well be at the heart of mankind’s next civilisation leap, uniting the physical world with intelligent, coordinated systems. At the Institute for the Frontiers in Cyber-Physical Infrastructure and Continental Connectivity, we investigate and build architectures that cohere machines, people, and ecosystems into secure, real-time, continental-scale networks. Our work strengthens Africa’s technological sovereignty, enabling societies to operate smarter, respond faster, and create resilient infrastructures that uplift the lives of all.

Transport and mobility

Pivotal for economic growth, urban development, and societal resilience, is the flow of people, goods, and ideas. The Institute for the Frontiers in Transport and Mobility explores forward-looking solutions in autonomous systems, intelligent logistics, sustainable infrastructure, and integrated mobility networks, cognizant of Africa's imminent growth and prosperity. We are enhancing efficiency, connectivity, and accessibility while positioning the continent to lead in robust mobility systems.

Space

Space is mankind’s next continent—the vast frontier where knowledge, habitation, and exploration converge. At the Institute for the Frontiers in Space and Earth Observation, we pursue technologies that reveal our planet, extend our reach across the Solar System, and lay conceptual foundations for humanity’s eventual interplanetary and interstellar journeys. Our work positions Africa to participate meaningfully in this ascent, contributing sovereign science, engineering, and imagination to the future of spacefaring civilisation.

Materials and Manufacturing

Materials and manufacturing form the foundation of technological progress, defining what societies can build, produce, and sustain. The Institute for the Frontiers in Materials and Manufacturing investigates advanced materials, smart fabrication, additive manufacturing, and precision engineering to develop innovative, high-performance systems. By translating frontier research into locally-relevant manufacturing solutions, our work strengthens African industries, accelerates industrialisation, and empowers the continent to design, produce, and scale technologies that drive economic growth and societal advancement.