Open Call for Expression of Interest (EOI) to host AfricaLics Conferences and PhD Academies (2027 – 2030)

The AfricaLics network is officially inviting expressions of interest from institutions across the African continent to host its premier events for the 2027–2030 period. This strategic call is central to the network’s mission of fostering capacity building, knowledge exchange, and research excellence in innovation and development studies throughout Africa. The opportunity encompasses hosting both the biennial AfricaLics Conferences and the AfricaLics PhD Academies. The conferences serve as a primary forum for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss the role of innovation systems in addressing developmental challenges, while the PhD Academies provide intensive training and mentorship to the next generation of researchers. To be considered, interested institutions must demonstrate the necessary infrastructure and organizational capability to manage international academic gatherings. Proposals should clearly reflect a commitment to the core AfricaLics values of interdisciplinary dialogue, innovation for sustainable development, and inclusive knowledge building. Furthermore, applicants are expected to outline preliminary support structures, including logistical management, local participation, and potential funding strategies to ensure the long-term success of these events. This open call provides a significant opportunity for universities and research centers to enhance their visibility within the global innovation community and strengthen their ties with the wider AfricaLics network. By hosting these events, institutions become active architects of the continent’s innovation agenda, helping to shape the discourse on learning, competence building, and inclusive growth for the remainder of the decade.