What does ASAI mean in PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

ASAI’s main objectives are to promote public knowledge and understanding of African affairs, support original research on the continent through grants and fellowships, promote professional development opportunities for its members, encourage productive relationships between Irish and African institutions, collaborate with other international associations related to Africa studies, and facilitate connections between scholars working on issues related to Africa.

Becoming a member of ASAI is easy! All you need to do is fill out the online application form found on our website. We offer several different membership levels depending on your current career status; student, early career researcher/professional or established researcher/professional.

Yes! ASAI publishes an annual journal called AfroFocus which focuses on a specific topic or theme each year related to African Studies. We also publish short monographs that are edited collections from symposia or conferences held by our organization. Both these publications are available in both print and digital format.

Each year ASAI hosts an Annual Conference that brings together students and researchers from around the world to present their latest work at a variety of panels and workshops. We also hold regular symposia throughout the year that focus on contemporary issues in Africa-related studies as well as special film screenings featuring African filmmakers or documentary films about topics relevant to the continent.

Due to public health concerns surrounding COVID-19 many of our events have been postponed until further notice. However we have begun hosting some virtual events via our website so please be sure check there often for updates!

Absolutely! All donations towards ASAI go towards student grants, awards for excellence in research as well as our publishing efforts such as AfroFocus journal and monograph series. For more information about how you can donate please visit our website here.

Unfortunately it does not. Your membership fee only covers part of the expenses associated with hosting an Annual Conference – including venue fees and catering services. Attendees may have additional costs such as travel expenses if they choose to attend in person.

Yes! Every year we award several scholarships designed specifically for students wanting to attend our Annual Conference who otherwise may not be able understand due financial difficulties presented by attending conferences abroad.