The competition organizers want to maintain momentum and support the creation of experimental equipment manufacturing companies in Africa
The Association for the Scientific Promotion of Africa (APSA) announces the appointment of Arouna Darga, from Sorbonne University, as chair of the steering committee for the 2026 edition of the African Experimental Physics Challenge.
This transition marks a new stage in the evolution of this competition of excellence, which showcases African scientific talent in the field of experimental physics.
Academic excellence and entrepreneurial impact
Arouna Darga brings a unique profile that combines academic research, teaching, and social entrepreneurship. An associate professor at Sorbonne University, he has also distinguished himself as a committed entrepreneur by founding a company with operations in Burkina Faso and Togo.
His company develops and deploys innovative solutions to improve access to solar energy, particularly for productive uses such as solar pumping for market gardening. This practical approach to technological innovation for the benefit of African communities is perfectly in line with the spirit of the Experimental Physics Challenge Africa.
Training through practice
Arouna Darga’s commitment to training young African talent is particularly noteworthy. Under his leadership, in collaboration with the Physics and Optics Without Borders Commission, more than 1,000 young Africans have been trained in solar photovoltaic technologies.
One of the unique features of his teaching approach is the practical application of technology. His solar workshops enable learners to learn by making their own mini solar photovoltaic modules and small solar systems. He has also introduced the innovative concept of “training construction sites” in the solar field, with concrete installations in Cameroon, Togo, Madagascar, Burkina Faso, and Guinea.
A recognized expert in solar technologies and Internet of Things technologies, he brings a forward-looking vision of the technological innovations that will shape the future of the African continent.
Transforming innovations into products
This appointment is in line with the scientific excellence of the competition while opening up new perspectives. Arouna Darga succeeds Odette Fokapu, who brilliantly led the previous editions of the challenge.
Under his leadership, the 2026 edition aims to further integrate the private sector and fablabs into the competition’s dynamic, creating a broader ecosystem that promotes the transition from innovation to economic and social impact.
The 2026 edition will thus benefit from leadership that combines:
- international academic excellence;
- hands-on entrepreneurial experience;
- a commitment to training young Africans;
- expertise in future technologies;
- a collaborative approach with the private sector and innovation spaces.
The terms and conditions for participation and the full schedule for the 2026 edition of the African Experimental Physics Challenge will be announced at a later date by APSA and published by Afriscitech.
