The AfricaLics Conference 2026, set to be hosted at the University of Witwatersrand from November 10 to 12, 2026, represents a pivotal moment for the innovation and development research community. Under the theme “Critical, Retrospective and Creative Perspectives on Innovation and Society in Africa,” this event aims to engage scholars, policymakers, and practitioners in a profound dialogue regarding the continent’s socio-economic trajectory. The conference is designed to serve as a platform for deep intellectual exchange, moving beyond traditional analysis to embrace a multifaceted approach to the study of learning and innovation systems. By encouraging critical and retrospective reflections, the event seeks to evaluate the efficacy of past innovation policies while simultaneously fostering creative, forward-looking strategies that address the contemporary challenges facing African societies. Participants will delve into complex intersections of innovation, inequality, digital transformation, and sustainability, ensuring that the discourse remains grounded in the realities of the African context. As a premier event within the AfricaLics network, this conference facilitates the vital connection between academic research and actionable policy, providing a space where diverse voices—from seasoned academics to emerging researchers—can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of how innovation can best serve social development goals. This gathering is an essential opportunity for those committed to reshaping the innovation agenda in Africa. Attendees can expect a program characterized by rigorous academic inquiry, collaborative knowledge sharing, and the pursuit of innovative solutions that promote sustainable development across the continent. By bringing together leading experts and fresh perspectives, the AfricaLics Conference 2026 is poised to influence the next generation of research, policy, and practice, solidifying the network’s role as a driving force for positive change through innovation.
