CODESRIA/ZASB 7th Summer School 2026: Apply by May 1

The CODESRIA/ZASB 7th Summer School in African Studies and Area Studies in Africa 2026 offers a great chance for young scholars to dive into key topics about Africa. Organized by the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA) and the Centre for African Studies in Basel (ZASB), this program runs with support from the Oumou Dilly Foundation in Switzerland. It aims to build stronger ties between African researchers and those studying Africa from Switzerland. The deadline to apply is May 1, 2026, so interested PhD students and early career researchers should act soon.

Program Overview

This summer school focuses on interdisciplinary research about Africa and other parts of the world from an African viewpoint. It treats African Studies as part of Area Studies, which means looking at specific regions in depth. Organizers want to find ideas, methods, and theories that help study Africa as a source of knowledge. They also explore how African insights can shape studies of other areas and add to global learning.

The event gathers young social sciences and humanities scholars to discuss challenges like meeting high research standards while making real-world impact in Africa. Participants will learn to mix their fields with others and connect their work to policy and academic settings from an African angle.

Key Goals

The summer school has clear aims to help participants grow:

It lets PhD students and early career scholars work with senior experts on fresh theories, ideas, and methods tied to African Studies that fit their own research.
It pushes attendees to think about how African ways of knowing and being can improve tools in their fields or across disciplines.
It builds a community feeling among scholars who focus on knowledge shaped by Africa.
It helps new researchers find a strong spot for African Studies in wider scholarship, placing it at the heart of knowledge creation in Africa and beyond.

Eligibility Requirements

This program targets doctoral students ready to explore themes in African Studies, social sciences, and humanities. Key points include:

Open to PhD students and early career scholars at universities on the African continent.
PhD students from Swiss universities are welcome too.
Strong preference for those in their first or second year of PhD studies.

Applicants need to show how their work links to conceptual, knowledge-based, and method ideas in these fields.

Costs and Support

For participants from African institutions, the program covers travel, lodging, and meals during the summer school. Organizers will also consider a small number of self-funded applicants who can pay their own way. This setup makes it accessible for many.

How to Apply

To submit an application, prepare these items:

A motivation letter up to 500 words. Explain how the summer school will help your work.
A concept paper up to 2,500 words. Cover your research topic, its links to African or Global South ideas (especially V.Y. Mudimbe’s work), what you hope to gain, and one relevant book for discussion.
A full CV.
One recommendation letter from your school or PhD advisor.
A copy of your passport.
Proof of PhD enrollment (for students) or doctoral certificate (for early career scholars) from an African or Swiss university.

Apply online through the official form. For full details, check the CODESRIA/ZASB page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline for the summer school?

The deadline is May 1, 2026, so apply soon if you qualify.

Who is eligible to participate?

PhD students in their first or second year and early career scholars from African or Swiss universities in social sciences or humanities.

What costs does the program cover?

It covers travel, lodging, and meals for those from African institutions; self-funded spots are limited.

What documents are needed for the application?

You need a motivation letter, concept paper up to 2,500 words, CV, recommendation letter, passport copy, and proof of PhD status.