Research Forum for VREF NextGen Scholars

Dear colleagues in the VREF “Next Generation Scholars” Community,
We are happy to share this invitation and hope to see you at the second Research Forum for Next Generation scholars across the VREF programs- where we will focus on:

Reflections on Advances and Opportunities in Informal and Shared Mobility

REGISTER AND JOIN!

Date: Wednesday 04 December 2024
Time: 12:00 – 14:00 GMT 
Register here!

Informal and shared mobility systems are vital components of the transportation landscape in many areas in the global South serving as primary modes of travel for millions across these regions. Characterised by minibuses, motorcycle taxis (e.g., boda-bodas and okadas), tuk-tuks, and shared ride services, these systems offer flexible, affordable, and accessible travel options. providing critical last-mile connectivity and enhancing mobility in underserved areas. This research forum aims to explore advances and further opportunities in informal and shared mobility systems, with a focus on approaches to enhance mobility, improve community connectivity and provide equitable access.

Questions will include:

  • What role does technology play in shaping informal transport?
  • What policies or interventions could support the development of informal transport while addressing its challenges?
  • What is the ideal future of informal transport in Africa, especially considering rapid urbanisation and mobility needs

Program

Welcome and introduction: Henrik Nolmark, VREF
Moderators: Robert Ambunda, University of Namibia; Paschalin Basil, University of Nairobi, Kenya
Logistical host: Karin Henriksson, VREF
The All-VREF NextGen initiative – short orientation and news: Robert Ambunda, Paschalin Basil

Presentations

Title: Utilizing GIS to Evaluate the Spatial Distribution of Tricycle Services in Ghana
Presenter: Solomon Dzikunu Quarshie, University of Ghana, Ghana
Discussant: Obed Bore, Centre for Transport Studies, University of Cape Town, South Africa

Title: Revolutionising the Minibus Taxi Industry in Cape Town: A Living Lab Approach to Technological Disruption in the Sector
Presenter: Haniefa Gaibe, University of Cape Town, South Africa
Discussant: Ariana Salas Castillo, Center for Sustainable Urban Development, Climate School, Columbia University, USA

Title: The after life: women in the taxi industry
Presenter: Zethu Zonke Bella Gavrilov, Witwatersrand University, South Africa
Discussant: Rasheed Azeez, Lagos State University, Nigeria

Plenary Discussion
Closing – news from VREF; short survey

BACKGROUND

In 2021 VREF’s “Mobility and Access in African Cities” program (MAC) launched a series of virtual seminars or “webinars” – known as Research Forum – on issues related to sustainable urban mobility and equitable access in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) cities. This series was later expanded to a separate series of “MAC NextGen Research Forums” focusing on current work by young scholars in SSA, specifically advanced master students, Ph.D. candidates and early career scholars.
Starting in 2024, VREF is initiating its “VREF NextGen Research Forums” to enable exchange of knowledge and perspectives among NextGen scholars within all its programs.
The purpose of the Next Gen Research Forum is:
>> to stimulate scientific discussion among the NextGen community on specific issues and themes in the area of sustainable urban mobility and equitable access;
>> to provide an opportunity for young scholars to present and discuss their on-going work with their peers within the community;
>>to provide a meeting place for dialogue and exchange among young scholars and other stakeholders within the community
The Research Forum on 04 December 2024 is the second in the special series “VREF NextGen Research Forums” – designed specifically for young scholars and other stakeholders within the community.

Do you have questions, thoughts or ideas related to the VREF NextGen program?
Do not hesitate to contact us: secretariat@vref.se