The African Studies Centre is advancing a bold vision for African-led, interdisciplinary research and teaching. Through deep partnerships with scholars, institutions, and communities across the continent, the Centre contributes to academic debates, informs public policy, and amplifies African voices in global discourse. Its rigorous postgraduate programme equips students with critical, research-driven perspectives on Africa’s histories, politics, anthropology, and global connections, preparing them for impactful careers in academia, policy, and development. At the heart of the Centre’s mission is the co-production of knowledge that is both locally grounded and globally relevant. We seek to expand our research agenda to addresses urgent themes such as Environment and Climate Change, Education, Leadership Studies, and Artificial Intelligence, while also deepening regional expertise in areas like the Sahel, Horn of Africa, Sudan, the Great Lakes, Francophone and Lusophone Africa. What sets our vision apart is its scale and ambition.
Why Your Gift Is Important
Funding for the African Studies Centre provides the necessary faculty and infrastructure for growth, scholarships, deeper university-wide interaction, and seamless collaboration with academic institutions in Africa.
Support the African Studies Centre
Donations are directed toward critical resource gaps and initiatives with the widest possible reach for our faculty and students. We also prioritise dialogue and partnership. Areas of need include:
- Expanding the Centre’s thematic and geographical coverage in teaching and research.
- Developing impactful research and training partnerships with African universities and governments, to create the next generation of researchers, practitioners and leaders working on themes that are vital to Africa’s development.
- Scholarships for Africans based in Africa to study African Studies tailored to African challenges.
- Supporting visiting scholars and collaborative academic links with Africa.
- Knowledge exchange by funding essential lectures, seminars, conferences and workshops.
- Faculty exchanges between the Centre and select universities in Africa.
- High-profile convenings, public engagement, and digital outreach that amplify African perspectives.
If you are considering a gift, we invite you to start a conversation with us at african.studies@africa.ox.ac.uk
We can help tailor your contribution to specific goals and connect you with the University’s Development and Alumni Engagement Office.
