The Bridging the Gap Network is an innovative knowledge mobilization initiative designed to strengthen linkages between academic researchers, industry actors, and policymakers across Africa. Through strategic use of audio-visual storytelling—including podcasts, video interviews, and visual briefs—the platform translates complex academic research into accessible, actionable knowledge that informs practice and policy.
This initiative addresses the persistent gap between scholarly inquiry and real-world application by fostering inclusive and participatory knowledge exchange. By aligning with contemporary models of engaged scholarship and digital dissemination, the project seeks to expand the social and policy relevance of academic output. Recent literature affirms the critical role of digital tools, such as video podcasting, in democratizing access to research and facilitating evidence-informed decision-making across sectors (Greenhalgh, Wieringa, & Rycroft-Malone, 2023; Vial, 2019).
Grant support will enable the expansion of the Network’s production capacity, multilingual content dissemination, and stakeholder engagement strategies—ensuring greater reach and impact across Africa’s diverse policy, academic, and development landscapes. The Bridging the Gap Network thus represents a scalable, contextually grounded platform for amplifying the practical value of academic research in support of sustainable development and innovation.
VISION
Evolving into Africa’s leading platform for research-driven dialogue that bridges the divide
between theory and practice, unlocking collective intelligence for sustainable development.
MISSION
To amplify scholarly work, elevate African knowledge systems, and translate academic findings
into practical solutions that influence policies, business decisions, and community action across
the continent.
CORE COMPONENTS
1. Podcast Series
➢ Bi-weekly episodes featuring African scholars, professionals, and policymakers.
➢ Conversations are grounded in research but directed toward solving real-world challenges.
➢ Thematic episodes on governance, entrepreneurship, climate change, education, youth leadership, digital transformation, gender, and more.
2. Interpersonal Stakeholder Engagement
➢ Roundtables, webinars, campus-community dialogues, and policy cafes.
➢ Live sessions bridging researchers and industry experts to foster joint projects and knowledge exchange.
3. Academic Case Development
➢ Documenting real-life examples, research-to-impact stories, and industry
collaborations for use in classrooms and training programs.
➢ Co-creating locally relevant teaching materials based on podcast conversations and engagement outcomes.
