The Resilience of Sudanese Scientists in the Face of War

A Look at Recent ASFI Publications

As Sudan faces the devastating impacts of war, the African Science Frontiers Initiatives (ASFI) has been at the forefront, offering a lifeline to Sudanese scientists enduring unimaginable challenges. A series of articles published by distinguished ASFI members reveals the experiences of Sudanese researchers displaced by conflict, shedding light on the immense obstacles they face and the resilience they continue to demonstrate. Here, we highlight three pivotal articles, each offering unique insights into the challenges and hopes of Sudan's scientific community during this turbulent time.

1. The Fate of Sudanese Refugee Scientists in Times of War: Impact, Experiences, Challenges, and Prospects

Authored by Tanzeel M. A. Omer, Madani M. Madani, and Toga K. Mohamed, this research examines the fate of Sudanese scientists displaced by the war that erupted in April 2023. The paper explores how these scientists have been forced to leave behind established careers, research, and community support structures, encountering both the loss of economic stability and the disintegration of essential networks. Through interviews with displaced scientists, the study uncovers both the profound hardships and unexpected growth opportunities the conflict has created. Forced adaptation to new cultures has expanded perspectives, spurred resilience, and, in some cases, fueled innovative approaches to scientific inquiry.

As the authors highlight, however, these gains come at a significant cost. The disruption to Sudan’s scientific landscape has far-reaching implications, from potential setbacks in educational advancement to losses in research output. These findings underscore the critical need for international support to prevent further erosion of Sudan's academic and scientific heritage.

2. When War Disrupts Science: The Sudanese Case and Its Larger Implications

In this editorial, Eman Sobh, Ajibola F. Oladejo, Eunice F. Fondze-Fombele, and Bright I. Nwaru take a broader perspective on the disruptions facing Sudanese scientists. The paper provides a compelling commentary on the enduring consequences of conflict on scientific progress, emphasizing the detrimental impact on scientists who remain in Sudan as well as those displaced across Africa and the world. The authors commend ASFI for its intervention, which has provided essential support to scientists navigating the hardships imposed by war, setting an example that they hope other organizations will emulate.

The authors advocate for sustained, cooperative efforts to alleviate the negative effects of war on science, calling for a global commitment to preserving scientific knowledge and infrastructure in Sudan. This piece poignantly reminds readers that the effects of war extend beyond borders and that the protection of scientific endeavours is a collective responsibility.

3. Science in Times of War: Reflections from Sudan

This article, contributed by Nawal K. N. Alamin, Alkhair A. A. Idris, Gamal E. A. Khugali, Giddani O. A. Kalcon, and Mahir S. S. Khaleel, provides a powerful account of the war’s impact on scientists who have remained in Sudan. These researchers offer a first-hand narrative of the conflict’s consequences on their professional and personal lives, describing how war has led to mass displacement, separation from colleagues and family, and the destruction of research and educational resources. In Khartoum and beyond, university buildings have been damaged, occupied, or rendered non-functional, pushing students and faculty into an academic limbo and raising concerns about the nation’s educational future.

The authors stress that, while rebuilding infrastructure is challenging, the emotional and psychological toll on the Sudanese scientific community may be even more complex to address. Their call for international solidarity and revitalized policies reflects a pressing need to rebuild Sudan's education system, support its scientists, and protect the future of scientific research in the region.

Supporting Sudanese Science Through Resilience and Recovery

These recent publications highlight the incredible resilience of Sudanese scientists, who, despite facing unprecedented challenges, continue to adapt and contribute to their fields. ASFI’s support has been instrumental in this journey, offering critical assistance to help these researchers sustain their work and maintain hope for a brighter future.

The Malak Foundation is proud to collaborate with ASFI in raising awareness about the struggles and triumphs of Sudan’s scientific community.

We stand in solidarity with these scientists, and we echo the calls for continued support and proactive measures to safeguard the essential contributions they make to global science. Let us all strive to ensure that the voices of these scientists are heard and their work endures, even in the face of adversity.