On October 11, the first meeting of the Advisory Board of the Africa Futures Center was held, part of the Innovation X Hub at Porto Business School. The primary aim of this inaugural meeting was to define the strategic vision and priorities for the center, which seeks to promote sustainable development and drive economic growth in African countries, with a particular focus on the African Countries of Portuguese Official Language (PALOP).
The Africa Futures Center is supported by a group of highly reputable and internationally experienced advisors who will play a crucial role in guiding its activities. The Advisory Board includes José Esteves, Dean of Porto Business School; Cândida Santos, Director of the Africa Futures Center; Gonçalo Oliveira, Manager of International Relations and Business for Infraestruturas de Portugal; Marco António Costa, Lawyer; Diogo Vieira da Silva, Impact Officer; Indira Campos, Resident Representative of the World Bank Group in Cabo Verde; Isaac dos Anjos, Secretary of State for the Presidency of Angola in the Productive Area; Ludovina Bernardo, President of ENH – National Oil Company of Mozambique; Nelma Fernandes, President of the CPLP Business Confederation; and Osvaldo Inácio, Executive Administrator of Sonangol.
During the meeting, the strategic goals and challenges facing the Africa Futures Center were discussed, as it aims to develop innovative solutions for critical issues such as sustainability, technological innovation, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure development in Africa. The advisors shared their insights, providing valuable suggestions that will be integrated into an action plan to be finalized in the coming weeks.
José Esteves, Dean of Porto Business School, highlighted the advisory body's role in the Africa Futures Center: "This is a strategic step to strengthen our connection to Africa, promoting sustainable development. We rely on this group of advisors to help create lasting impact with their experience and knowledge."
Cândida Santos, Director of the Africa Futures Center, highlighted the significance of assembling such a diverse and influential panel: “Collaborating with these esteemed experts will be vital for our success. Their guidance will enable us to develop initiatives that align with the emerging needs and opportunities across the African continent.”
In this way, the Africa Futures Center reaffirms its commitment to being an agent of change, leveraging the knowledge and expertise of its advisors to fulfill its mission of generating positive impact and promoting sustainable transformation in Africa.
