Research and innovation are critical drivers of social and economic advancement, and in many countries—particularly in the developing world—they are deeply anchored in graduate education. However, these domains continue to grapple with a host of policy, funding, and infrastructural challenges that hinder their full potential. For Africa, strengthening research and innovation is not merely a continental aspiration; it must be regarded as a global imperative. The continent holds vast and underutilized potential to contribute meaningfully to global knowledge production, scientific discovery, and technological advancement. Unlocking this potential requires deliberate and coordinated efforts from African universities and research institutions, governments, international development partners, and the private sector alike. This chapter provides a systematic analysis of some of the most pressing challenges, emerging opportunities, and likely trajectories in advancing research and innovation across the continent.