African International Conference 2026
The African International Conference provides a platform for scholars, practitioners, policymakers, government, and innovators to converge and delve into the critical issues shaping the African continent.
- Date and time
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- Attendance
- This is an in-person event
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African Renaissance: Reclaiming narratives and advancing a shared future
The continent is witnessing a surge of innovation across various sectors, from technology and entrepreneurship to renewable energy and healthcare. However, realising Africa's full potential requires a concerted effort to address the challenges of integration and ensure that the benefits of development are shared equitably across the continent.
Through insightful presentations, colourful posters, robust discussions, and collaborative efforts, we will explore good practices that can be employed to drive sustainable development, foster regional integration, and foster societal and sectoral advancements.
Call for abstracts
The theme of this event is ‘African Renaissance: Reclaiming narratives and advancing a shared future'. The deadline for submissions for abstracts is 30 January 2026.
Conference sub-themes
We invite scholarly contributions that align with the conference theme, African Renaissance: Reclaiming Narratives and Advancing a Shared Future, under the sub-themes:
- Advancing Good Governance and Human Rights for Justice, Equity, and Resilient Communities.
- Education, Technology, and the Digital Future of Learning
- Culture, Creativity, and Transnational Indigenous Networks in Development.
- Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability
- Health, Medicine, Food and Human Security.
- Epistemic Pluralism: African Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Dialogue with Global Thought.
- African Indigeneity, Innovation, and Economic Agency in a Globalized World.
Presentation formats
Oral presentations (In-person)
Presenters will deliver a structured presentation, followed by a dedicated Q&A session with attendees. This format is designed for the comprehensive exploration of research findings.
Poster presentations (In-person)
Presenters will showcase their research using a printed, A1-sized poster. Poster sessions are designed for dynamic exchanges, involving a 5-minute research overview followed by a 5-minute Q&A period with small groups of rotating attendees. This format encourages speed-style networking.
Abstract submission guidelines
Interested participants are invited to submit an abstract that adheres strictly to the following requirements:
Submission content
The abstract must be a maximum of 250 words and address the following five elements within the body text:
- Background: A brief context setting out the societal or scholarly challenge being addressed.
- Research Question/Objectives: A clear statement defining the primary aim or research questions of the study.
- Research Narrative: A summary of the methodology, work completed and projected next steps.
- Thematic Connection and Impact: Explicitly articulate the connection of the research to the conference theme and/or its potential impact on African society.
- Accessibility for Non-Specialists: Demonstrate the translation and suitability of the research for a wide, non-specialist audience.
Required information
Please ensure the following details accompany your abstract submission:
- Full Name(s) of Author(s),
- Institutional Affiliation,
- Abstract Title,
- Keywords (Maximum 5).
Early bird registration is £150 till 14 February 2026. The main registration fee is £200.00.
Submit your abstracts by 30 January 2026
We eagerly anticipate reviewing your abstracts. Further details will be shared upon abstract acceptance.
Successful applicants will have their submitted abstracts provided within the conference programme.
Other key activities
A pre-conference workshop is included as part of the itinerary for 2026 conference.
In plenary and parallel sessions, our guest speakers will share ongoing research, activities and findings with you.
A range of panel discussions, roundtable debates and networking opportunities will open conversations on our conference themes whilst allowing you to develop your professional networks.
If you have any queries, please email africa-conference@bradford.ac.uk.
Our conference partners
Thank you to our partners:
