Evaluation of AAUs Core Programmes and projects under the Core Programme 2013–2017

The AAU at present has three key functions: convening, setting the intellectual agenda and implementing key programmes andprojects. The convening power has been strengthened over time and AAU has significantly developed its capacities to manage acomprehensive programme of work. In one area, notably in Knowledge Management and ICT the AAU has an emerging core strength.However the breadth of AAU’s programme may have contributed to the fact that in the eyes of external observers that wereinterviewed the specific role and contribution of AAU is not entirely clear. We have been struck by the continuity of the AAU’sprogramme framework across the three strategy plan periods which stands in contrast to the dynamics of change in the African HEIlandscape. But the team also detected within the AAU an ambition to reposition itself at a higher level in the future. The programme isrelevant to Sida’s Strategy for Research Cooperation and internal training activities and the operations of AAU’s small grantsprogramme has been exemplary in terms of efficiency, and governance structures are generally effective. In terms of sustainability,there is little doubt that there are key parts of the AAU programme such as COREVIP which are central to its identity and clearlyowned. However, the evaluation has been constrained by a lack of relevant data and analysis at the outcome and contribution level.