November 2024 — The UNICEF ESARO's Academia for Social and Behavioral Change Consortium is a groundbreaking initiative that aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice to empower communities and prioritize children's rights in Eastern and Southern Africa. This consortium brings together 28 universities from 17 countries, envisioning a future where Social and Behavior Change (SBC) is more than just a tool—it's a dynamic strategy empowering communities and driving lasting change.

The Co-creation Workshop

The journey of the UNICEF ESARO's Academia for Social and Behavioral Change Consortium began with a pivotal Co-creation Workshop held in Nairobi, Kenya from 14-15 November. Over 40 participants from 27 universities across 17 countries came together to emphasize thought leadership and system strengthening. The significant event aimed to enhance collaboration between academia and UNICEF, driving innovation and fostering continuous learning in the field of social and behavior change.

Collaborating for Change

Academia and UNICEF collaborated at the Workshop to train government workforces, shape policies, and foster solutions owned and led by communities—a true localization in action. The Consortium's efforts are anchored in four pillars: Skills Building, Networks and Centers of Excellence, Evidence Generation, and Influencing Policy and Implementation. By focusing on training, collaboration, evidence-based strategies, and policy advocacy, the Consortium aims to drive equitable and sustainable development with a strong emphasis on children's rights.

Vision and Impact

The vision for the UNICEF ESARO's Academia for Social and Behavioral Change Consortium is ambitious, aiming to expand to 30 universities, establish Centers of Excellence in three countries, and offer hands-on learning opportunities to students yearly by 2025. The Consortium's impact is already resonating across the region, with universities expressing enthusiasm for collaborative initiatives and shared visions for children's rights. Through strategic planning sessions, visioning activities, and priority area identification, the Consortium is shaping a future where academia and UNICEF work together to drive social and behavioral change initiatives forward.

Voices from the Region

Participants from various universities expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting the benefits of collaboration and the focus on child rights. Here are some of their insights:

• Dr. Said Mahamoudou, Comoros University: “The focus on child rights was eye-opening. SBC helps us articulate and address these issues.”

• Oliver Mweemba, University of Zambia: “Engaging with diverse university partners from so many countries has been incredibly beneficial. It’s a great opportunity to collaborate.”

• Dr. Abraham Kuol Nyuon, University of Juba, South Sudan: “The practical discussions on operationalizing the Consortium were exactly what we needed. We now need to translate this into action.”

• Prof. David Musoke, Makerere University, Uganda: “Collaboration is key. This network would allow us to write grants, conduct research, and expand our reach.”

• Josi Paz, UNICEF Angola: “In Angola, breaking down silos is critical. This collaboration makes us more strategic and effective.”

Leadership and Commitment

"Collaborations with academic institutions like this can significantly advance the localization agenda and promote child rights in our region. UNICEF is dedicated to partnering with academia to harness their expertise and knowledge for meaningful and impactful change,” stressed Etleva Kadilli, Regional Director for UNICEF Eastern and Southern Africa.

"This initiative is about building lasting capacities and fostering true localization—essential steps for sustainable development. Let's harness this momentum and make a significant impact together. To me, this Consortium is a no-brainer," said Vincent Petit, UNICEF’s Global Lead for SBC.

Conclusion

The UNICEF ESARO's Academia for Social and Behavioral Change Consortium is a beacon of hope in Eastern and Southern Africa, empowering communities, driving sustainable development, and prioritizing children's rights. Through collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision, this consortium is paving the way for a brighter future for all. Join us in this journey towards impactful change and social transformation!