African Institute for Solutions and Development (AISD)

The African Institute for Solutions and Development (AISD) is a research-based institute established by Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN) to tackle significant societal challenges through innovative solutions and community engagement. Aligned with MAAUN’s core values, AISD seeks to empower students, faculty, and communities to collaboratively address pressing issues and foster sustainable development.

 

Vision and Mission

AISD is a platform designed to fulfill the broader vision of Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, the founder of MAAUN. The institute aims to:

  • Provide a collaborative environment for African researchers.
  • Develop evidence-based solutions to address challenges in Nigeria and beyond.
  • Engage communities in the design and implementation of projects to ensure local ownership and sustainability.

Approach

AISD employs a participatory and evidence-based approach, working closely with:

  • Federal, state, and local governments.
  • International and national development agencies.
  • Communities, ensuring their active involvement in decision-making and implementation processes.

AISD has a fully functional office at MAAUN’s Kano campus and field offices in Abuja, Maiduguri, Damaturu, Bama, and Ngala, ensuring a widespread reach and impact.

Current Activities

AISD is engaged in a variety of research and intervention projects aimed at addressing key societal issues:

Research Initiatives
Out-of-School Children Study:
  • Investigates the prevalence and drivers of out-of-school children in Kano State.
  • Provides recommendations to state and non-state actors.
Child Labor Study:
  • Examines factors contributing to child labor and suggests actionable solutions to mitigate these practices.
Diabetes Study:
  • Focuses on the rising incidences of diabetes in Kano and Northern Nigeria.
  • Offers strategies for healthy living and disease mitigation.
Drug Vigilance Study:
  • Assesses the scale and drivers of drug misuse among youth.
  • Provides insights to guide government actions for remediation in Northern Nigeria.
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Development Projects

1. Out-of-School Children Program:

  • Targets street hawkers and children engaged in menial labor.
  • Provides alternative education and a meal a day for their nutritional needs.

2. Hygiene Promotion Campaign:

  • Educates communities on waste management and maintaining a clean environment.
  • Led by MAAUN students.

3. Girl Child Education Access Program:

  • Supports young girls in JSS3 and SS3 to excel in exit exams.
  • Anchored by MAAUN students providing after-school homework support.

4. Economic Empowerment Initiative:

  • Organizes boot camps for small-scale traders, particularly women and youth.
  • Focuses on business development and financial literacy training.

5. Livelihood Training Centers:

  • In partnership with the Borno State Ministry of Women Affairs.
  • Operates centers in Maiduguri, Bama, and Ngala to provide vocational training.
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Conflict Management and Peacebuilding Program:

  • Equips individuals and communities with skills in communication, negotiation, mediation, and reconciliation.
  • Aims to foster social cohesion and build resilience in conflict-affected areas.

Why AISD Matters

AISD plays a critical role in addressing societal challenges by:

  • Bridging the gap between academic research and real-world application.
  • Promoting collaboration among African researchers.
  • Empowering local communities with sustainable solutions.
Contact Information

Email: ed.aisd@maaun.edu.ng

Phone: +2348083130614

The African Institute for Solutions and Development remains a beacon of innovation and community-driven progress, exemplifying MAAUN’s commitment to education and societal transformation.