Collaborative Master of Science (MSc) in Food Security and Sustainable Agrifood Systems

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Overview

This Collaborative MSc is a joint initiative between Africa University and UNU-INWEH, developed with the support of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). It addresses global and regional challenges in food security and sustainability through education, research, and capacity development.

Mission

To provide transformative, inclusive, and interdisciplinary education that empowers future leaders to drive sustainable development in Africa and globally through innovation, research, and capacity-building in food security, agrifood systems, water, environment, and health.

Vision

To be a leading pan-African and global hub of excellence, in collaboration with UNU-INWEH, producing world-class graduates and leaders through the MSc in Food Security and Sustainable Agrifood Systems who advance sustainable food systems, climate resilience, environmental innovation, and socio-economic transformation.

Goals & Objectives

Reinforce AU and UNU-INWEH's shared commitment to education and research for sustainable development, in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and African Union Agenda 2063.

Degree conferred by

Africa University and annotated as a joint programme with UNU-INWEH.

An additional UNU-INWEH certificate may be issued upon request.

Collaborating Partner

Supporting Partner

Mode of Delivery: Blended (online modules, in-person coursework, and field-based research)

Duration: 18 months (Full-time)

Qualification Level: ZNQF Level 9 / Master's Degree

Credit Load: 270-340 credits

Academic Credential: Degree conferred by Africa University, annotated as a joint programme with UNU-INWEH

First Cohort Launch: August 2026

Total Fees: Semester 1 - USD1285, Semester 2 - USD3600, Semester 3 - USD1285

The programme aims to:

Equip learners with advanced knowledge and tools to promote food security and sustainable agrifood systems.

Enhance technical, policy, and innovation capacities through interdisciplinary training and applied research.

Support the development of regional expertise and leadership aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and African Union Agenda 2063.

Promote North-South partnerships, knowledge exchange, gender equity, youth empowerment, and inclusivity in agricultural transformation.

  1. AU and FAO e-Learning Modules: Foundational and specialised online training in food systems, food security, climate resilience, gender impact in agriculture and agri-entrepreneurship.
  2. Residential Coursework at Africa University: Interdisciplinary academic instruction, case-based learning, and policy simulations.
  3. Field-Based Research Project: Real-world application through a supervised dissertation that contributes to local or regional agrifood innovation ecosystems.

Target Participants

The programme targets mid-career professionals, policy actors, researchers, and practitioners who possess:
An Honours Bachelor's degree (or equivalent, ZNQF Level 8). At least two years of relevant experience in agriculture,
development, nutrition, policy, or environmental science. Demonstrated English language proficiency.

Academic Governance, Relevance & Responsibilities

  • The programme will operate under Africa University's General Academic Regulations, in close collaboration with UNU-INWEH.
  • Quality assurance will be ensured through academic oversight mechanisms, including co-supervision of research projects and annual reporting to UNU-INWEH management.
  • UNU-INWEH staff and affiliates will be invited to deliver guest lectures.
  • The awarded degree shall appropriately reference UNU-INWEH as academic collaborator.

This joint MSc programme supports UNU-INWEH’s mission to:

  • Strengthen water, environment, and health interlinkages
  • Advance capacity development and applied research
  • Promote sustainable, science-based solutions to food, water, and ecosystem challenges
  • Enhance regional innovation ecosystems for sustainable development

In line with Clause 1 of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), AU and UNU-INWEH shall jointly:

  • Promote academic cooperation, guest lectureships, and knowledge exchange
  • Facilitate joint research supervision and publication opportunities
  • Organise joint training events, symposia, and dissemination of research
  • Support gender-balanced recruitment and regional diversity among student cohorts

All activities will be carried out in accordance with each party’s governance rules and as outlined in individual collaboration agreements or work plans.

ACADEMIC UNITS

PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS

RESOURCES

CONTACT US

Main Campus

+263 8688002151

info@africau.edu

AU, 1 Fairview Rd, Old Mutare, Zimbabwe

AU Global Campus

+263778879492

globalcampus@africau.edu

38 Lanark Road, Avondale, Harare