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Welcome to the Institute of African Studies

IAS is an interdisciplinary hub that fosters a collaborative academic environment of students, faculty, and researchers with shared interest in African history, culture, intellect, and creativity.

Our purpose is to deepen public and scholarly knowledge of Africa’s diverse heritage, and cultivate an inclusive space for exploration, appreciation, and celebration.

IAS serves as Columbia University's central hub for Africa-centered academic programs and research. Collaborating with various departments and groups across the campus, IAS fosters learning, dialogue, and exchange surrounding Africa.

 

Pillar 1: External Grants and Collaborations

Since 2008, IAS has secured grants from prestigious institutions, fueling collaborations with Universite Paris 1, CEMAf, and Sciences Po. These grants have facilitated intellectual ties and initiatives in African education, public health, history, and international affairs.

Pillar 2: Preparing Future Africanist Scholars

Through academic and event programming, IAS prepares scholars for careers in development, diplomacy, business, governance, journalism, law, human rights, and research. IAS offers diverse academic programs and language training in Wolof, Arabic, Pulaar, Swahili, Zulu, and Yoruba.

Pillar 3: Interdisciplinary Partnerships and Dynamic Programming

IAS collaborates with institutions across New York -- fostering partnerships with the South African Consulate, NYAFF, MfAA, MOMI, and the Schomburg Center. Partnerships with SSRC and CODESRIA bring post-doctoral scholars to Columbia through the IAS Visiting Scholars program.

Pillar 4: Global Perspectives on Africa

IAS serves as a central forum for critical conversations on Africa's history, diaspora, and global impact. With the theme "Africa and the World," IAS navigates the global turn, discussing issues such as the Global Financial Crisis, Global Aid in Africa, and the Arts of Citizenship in African Cities.

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IAS believes in preserving regional uniqueness within the global agenda. The institute actively engages in inter- and cross-disciplinary discussions, challenging assumptions, and bringing together academics, policymakers, artists, activists, and journalists.

While maintaining a global focus, IAS is committed to bringing an African presence to discussions at regional, national, local, inter-regional, and global levels. The institute builds its program agenda on Africa while addressing broader global questions and concerns.