The Pan African University Institute for Water and Energy Sciences including Climate Change (PAUWES), graduated 82 students from 36 African countries in a ceremony held last May 22, 2025, in Tlemcen, Algeria.

Women comprised 40% of the graduating class, reflecting the institute's commitment to gender equity in traditionally male-dominated STEM fields. The graduates completed Master's programs in Water Engineering, Water Policy, Energy Engineering, Energy Policy, and Climate Change studies over two intensive years.

The ceremony featured an entrepreneurship competition organized by the PAUWES Entrepreneurship and Innovation Club, where five students pitched their research-based business ideas. Three emerged as winners, demonstrating the institute's focus on developing job creators rather than job seekers.

Professor Jean Koulidiati, Rector of the Pan African University, addressed graduates during the ceremony, emphasizing their role as future African leaders. "Africa is counting on you. Our continent's development will not be achieved by external forces but by her own sons and daughters who understand her unique challenges and opportunities," he said.

The graduation coincided with Africa Day week, adding symbolic significance to the celebration. Prof. Koulidiati noted that the timing was particularly appropriate as graduates stepped into leadership roles during the continent's annual unity celebration.

Students represented diverse African nations including Algeria, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

PAUWES, established in 2014 and hosted by the University of Tlemcen, has now graduated over 300 students who serve in leadership positions across Africa's public and private sectors. The institute focuses on critical areas for achieving Agenda 2063 aspirations, particularly water security, energy access, and climate resilience.