What You Need to Know
The National Research Week 2026, scheduled for April 20-24, aims to enhance collaboration between academia and industry in Mauritius. With participation from both public and private higher education institutions, the event will focus on fostering a strong research culture and engaging with international researchers to promote innovation and sustainability.
Africa-Press – Mauritius. The second edition of the National Research Week, set to take place from 20 to 24 April 2026, will feature expanded participation, with private higher education institutions joining their public counterparts to promote a more inclusive research environment across the country.
This announcement was made today by the Minister of Tertiary Education, Science and Research, Dr Kaviraj Sharma Sukon, during a press conference held at the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC) in Ebène. Also present were the Chairman of the MRIC, Dr Khemduth Singh Angateeah, the Executive Director, Professor Theesan Bahoorun, and heads of various academic institutions.
Dr Sukon also emphasised the importance of strengthening engagement with international researchers, noting that such collaboration would create valuable opportunities for local academics to share knowledge and gain global exposure.
The Minister likewise underscored the need to strengthen collaboration between academia and the private sector to help bridge the gap between research and industry. In this regard, he encouraged private companies to take an active role during Research Week and contribute to its organisation. Dr Sukon pointed out that the National Research Week constitutes a key platform to revitalise research activities in Mauritius and to foster a strong research culture among students, emerging researchers, and the wider public.
National Research Week 2026
This second edition of the National Research Week will be held under the theme “Research for Innovation, Society and Sustainability”. The opening ceremony will be held at the Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Tower in Ebène, while the subsequent four days of activities will be hosted at the University of Mauritius (UOM).
The programme will be coordinated by the UOM, the University of Technology (Mauritius), the MRIC, and the Mauritius Institute of Education, with each institution leading discussions around a specific sub-theme.
Participants are expected from institutions operating under the aegis of the Ministry, alongside representatives from Business Mauritius and members of the Association of Private Higher Education Institutions, who have been invited through Business Mauritius.
The National Research Week is an initiative aimed at bridging the gap between academia and industry in Mauritius. This event highlights the importance of research in driving innovation and addressing societal challenges. By involving private higher education institutions alongside public ones, the week aims to create a more inclusive research environment that benefits both students and the broader community. The collaboration between various educational institutions and the private sector is crucial for revitalizing research activities and fostering a culture of innovation in the country.
