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CFP: Seeking Chapters on African Ecofeminist Drama

Subject Fields African American History / Studies, African History / Studies, Arabic History / Studies Ecofeminist Drama: Theatre, Performance, and Ecological Futures Seeking chapters on African theatre and plays for the edited volume Ecofeminist Drama: Theatre, Performance, and Ecological Futures, currently under review with the University of Illinois Press. Proposals are due 30 March 2026. In 1974, Françoise d’Eaubonne introduced the term ecofeminism in Le féminisme ou la mort, articulating the interwoven domination of women and nature and calling for their collective liberation from systems of patriarchal and ecological exploitation. Since its emergence, ecofeminism has evolved into a dynamic and heterogeneous field encompassing philosophical inquiry, activist praxis, and interdisciplinary scholarship. Contemporary ecofeminist thought engages pressing questions of embodiment, care, environmental justice, material interdependence, and multispecies relationality in the context of accelerating ecological crisis. Ecofeminist Drama: Theatre, Performance, and Ecological Futures seeks to extend this intellectual trajectory by examining how theatre and performance not only represent ecofeminist concerns but actively reshape and reconfigure ecofeminist theory through dramatic form, performative practice, and aesthetic experimentation. Rather than reiterating established binaries—such as nature/culture, woman/nature, or human/nonhuman—this volume foregrounds theatre’s capacity to generate new epistemologies of ecological vulnerability, ethical responsibility, and relational survival. To ensure global representation, we especially welcome chapters focused on African drama and theatre. We invite original scholarly contributions that investigate drama and performance as sites where ecofeminist thought is materially embodied, dramaturgically enacted, and politically reimagined. Particular attention will be given to chapters engaging contemporary theatre and performance and articulating how ecofeminism is transformed through theatrical aesthetics, performance politics, and formal innovation. Confirmed Contributions A sampling of the confirmed chapters includes: Shakespearean Ecofeminism – Hadley Kamminga-Peck (Western Illinois University, USA) Ecofeminist Adaptation: Carol Ann Duffy’s Everyman (2015) – Özlem Karadağ (Istanbul University, Turkey) The Ecofeminist Agenda of Modern Russian Drama – Katherine Anna New (Oriel College, Oxford University, UK) Cuts to the Bone: An Ecofeminist Analysis of Catherine Banks’ Bone Cage – Emily A. Rollie (Central Washington University, USA) Ecofeminist Dramaturgy and the Theatre of Extinction in Caryl Churchill’s Escaped Alone – Işıl Şahin Gülter (Fırat University, Turkey) Proposals should therefore avoid duplicating these topics. Indicative Themes (Not Exhaustive) We welcome contributions including, but not limited to, the following areas: Contemporary ecological and climate change theatre Posthuman and more-than-human performance practices Ecofeminism, disability, illness, and staged vulnerability Environmental justice and feminist dramaturgies Material ecocriticism and theatrical matter (bodies, objects, landscapes) Indigenous, decolonial, and Global South ecofeminist performance Queer ecofeminism and affective ecologies in theatre Care ethics, interdependence, and survival in dramatic narratives Ecofeminist adaptations and reworkings of canonical texts Performance activism and ecofeminist praxis Multispecies theatre and animal studies Ecofeminist scenography, sound design, and spatial ecologies We are particularly interested in chapters that demonstrate how theatre and performance: extend and transform ecofeminist theory; challenge anthropocentric, patriarchal, and ableist environmental imaginaries; articulate innovative models of ecological ethics, relationality, and responsibility. Submission Requirements Interested scholars should submit: A 300-word abstract clearly outlining the chapter’s central argument, primary dramatic texts or performance practices, and its contribution to ecofeminist theatre studies A 200-word biographical note A list of 5–7 keywords Five key references Abstracts should articulate a focused and original thesis and demonstrate how the proposed chapter advances ecofeminist thought through theatre and performance. Only previously unpublished work will be considered. Contributors must hold a completed PhD. The editors seek a diverse and internationally representative group of scholars from theatre and performance studies, literary studies, environmental humanities, gender studies, and related disciplines. Important Dates Abstract deadline: 30 March 2026Notification of acceptance: 15 April 2026Full chapter submission: 30 July 2026 AI Policy Contributors must adhere to the AI usage guidelines outlined in the Bloomsbury AI Policy for Authors and Illustrators (December 2025): https://www.bloomsbury.com/media/0zxgch3t/ai-policy-for-authors-and-illustrators-dec-2025.pdf For the purposes of this volume, “AI systems” include publicly accessible generative platforms (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini, and similar tools) as well as AI-enabled grammar and editing systems. In accordance with these guidelines: Publicly accessible AI systems (free or paid) may not be used to generate, draft, rewrite, or substantially edit submitted chapters. Institutionally licensed or privately managed AI systems may be used solely for limited brainstorming or organizational assistance, not for composing substantive scholarly content. Authors remain fully responsible for the originality, intellectual integrity, and scholarly accuracy of their submissions. All accepted contributors will be required to formally attest to compliance with these policies. Submission Address Please send all materials as a single document to: 📧 Işıl ŞAHİN GÜLTERigulter@firat.edu.tr Contact Information Işıl Şahin Gülter Contact Email igulter@firat.edu.tr

By: Aaron Dorner

Monday, Mar 2, 2026

CULTURE AND SOCIETY

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Herskovits Library of African Studies Research Grant

Location Illinois, United States Subject Fields African History / Studies This travel grant was established in 2021 to facilitate and support research projects that significantly benefit from substantial onsite use of the unique, special and archival collections of the Herskovits Library. The grant is available to researchers whose projects explore new lines of inquiry, interdisciplinary and multi-layered research and contribute to the deeper understanding of the diverse peoples and countries of the African continent. Projects should emphasize the need for extensive onsite use of the library's collections. Funding Each year we will award one or more grants, up to a total of $3,000, open to all fields of study supported by the collections of the Herskovits Library of African Studies. We reserve the right to award only a portion of the requested amount. Grants will be awarded to reimburse expenses for transportation, accommodations, and meals for one or more on-site visits to Northwestern University Libraries. For more information about the application process go to https://www.library.northwestern.edu/libraries-collections/distinctive-special-collections/herskovits-library/research-grant.html Contact Email librarygrants@northwestern.edu URL https://www.library.northwestern.edu/libraries-collections/distinctive-special-…

EE 30 Under 30 - Nominations Open

EE 30 Under 30 EE 30 Under 30 Class of 2026 — Nominations Now Open EE 30 Under 30 celebrates young people across the globe who are building a sustainable future through education. The EE 30 Under 30 Class of 2026 will receive global recognition, join a growing community of inspiring EE leaders, and have access to ongoing opportunities for professional development and networking. Nominate yourself or a young leader you know by March 31. Nominate a young leader > Applicant Webinar Register here for our 2026 Applicant Webinar on March 10 at 10:00 AM U.S. Eastern Time (find your time zone) to learn more about the program and some tips for writing a strong nomination. A recording of the webinar will be shared with all registrants. Environmental education (EE) and leadership show up in many different forms! We aim to recognize leaders with a wide range of backgrounds who are bringing new constituencies and insights to EE. We highly encourage nominees from across sectors and disciplines to apply. We welcome nominees who are: Working at any scale: local, national, regional, or global, in rural or urban contexts, just to name a few! In any position or role: community organizer, director, consultant, artist, teacher, and much more. Using education in any context: in schools, businesses, communities, church groups, networks, government, the media—you name it! Collapse All Eligibility requirements Nominees must be 30 years old or younger (as of March 31, 2026). If you are over 30, you can still nominate someone else! Nominees can come from anywhere in the world. Nominations must be in English, but your nomination will not be judged based on your English language ability. Nominees must be using EE to address sustainability issues, build a more resilient environmental movement, and/or create healthier and more civically engaged communities. Read more about the key elements of EE here. Nominees must demonstrate some leadership in EE, but you do not need to be in a leadership position to demonstrate leadership! This can include (but is not limited to!) inspiring others to take action towards a shared vision, listening to and taking action for the needs of your community, innovating in the face of challenges, and welcoming everyone to participate and engage. For more about leadership, check out our blog "What Is a Leader?" Video requirement: All nominees need to submit a short introduction video (90 seconds max) and provide a letter of support. Please take a close look at the application, whether you are nominating yourself or someone else, to understand these requirements. We highly encourage you to use your own words and not rely on AI-generated content, including written responses from Chat GPT or other AI platforms. We will not consider videos that are AI-generated. Preview the nomination form Downloadable versions of the application can be accessed below for your personal use (Note: you must submit your application through Submittable to be considered for this award): Nominating someone else: DOCX | PDF Nominating myself: DOCX | PDF Spread the word about the EE 30 Under 30 Call for Nominations Check out our EE 30 Under 30 Promotion Toolkit for sample messaging and graphics. About EE 30 Under 30 Since 2016, NAAEE's EE 30 Under 30 program has recognized 301 individuals from 57 countries who are making a difference through environmental education. To address today’s complex challenges, we need a wide range of perspectives, skills, and experiences. EE 30 Under 30 celebrates the unique and passionate leadership of talented young leaders around the world and gives them a professional boost to increase their impact. Each year our awardees join a growing alumni network of inspiring environmental education leaders and receive ongoing opportunities to network, grow professionally, and promote their work. Since 2020, a number of EE 30 Under 30 alumni have been supported by the Changemaker Grants program, which provides financial and professional development support to bring new transformative ideas to life and sustain their ongoing work. The EE 30 Under 30 and Changemaker Grants programs are made possible by the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP) and the Sam and Mary Lawrence Foundation. Additional support was provided by the Environmental Stewardship Fund, a fund of Tides Foundation. FAQ Meet EE 30 Under 30 Alumni Changemaker Grantees Questions? Reach out to ee30u30@naaee.org Congratulations to Our 2025 EE 30 Under 30 Awardees! The North American Association for Environmental Education introduces its newest class of 30 visionary leaders under 30—rising changemakers from 21 countries who are transforming the future of environmental education. Get inspired by the stories and insights of the rising leaders making a difference in environmental education. Read the press release The North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE) is thrilled to unveil its tenth class of trailblazers under age 30 who are using environmental education to create lasting impact in communities worldwide. The EE 30 Under 30 Class of 2025 range in age from 16 to 30, hail from 21 countries, and work with a wide range of audiences to tackle complex environmental and social issues in their communities. They encompass a variety of topics and approaches to EE, from teacher training and outdoor education to new technologies that address fast fashion to community-centered programs for ocean conservation and ecosystem restoration. Their collective work is reaching more than 300,000 people each year.

TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme - SSA

The TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Programme provides postdoctoral researchers living and working in sub-Saharan Africa with the opportunity to make a three-month ‘Cooperation Visit’ to a research institute in Germany. Such visits must be undertaken within 12 months of the award. The aim of the visit is to initiate research collaboration between African and German scientists with the ultimate goal of developing longer-term links, perhaps through other Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, or German Research Foundation) programmes. DFG will cover travel expenses and provide subsistence costs for the stay in Germany. The administration and financial operation of TWAS is undertaken by UNESCO in accordance with an agreement signed by the two organizations. Deadline: 15 April 2026 Eligibility Applicants need to hold a PhD obtained not earlier than 2021; however, for female applicants the year limit for the PhD can be extended by two years per child, i.e. for a woman with one child the PhD year would be 2019 or later. This exception for female applicants has a limit of three children which equals a maximum of six years. Therefore, the PhD of a female applicant with three or more children should not have been obtained before 2015. At the time of submission of the proposal applicants hold a research position at an institution located in a sub-Saharan African country. Applicants need to have been engaged in a science system (including graduate and postgraduate training, research, teaching) for at least five years prior to a respective call in a sub-Saharan African country or MENA country. Applicants already on site in Germany are not eligible. Applicants with an established collaboration with the intended host are not eligible. Examples of established collaboration include one common publication with the host Professor; the host Professor was previously the applicant's MSc or PhD supervisor; or other types of extensive collaboration. Preparatory interactions (such as virtual meetings, including other forms of communication) prior to the planned guest visit are encouraged. Previous recipients of a TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visit cannot reapply. For a second visit, the German host can apply for funding under the DFG Initiation of International Collaboration Programme. Women scientists are especially encouraged to apply. All academic fields will be considered. Finding a German host Please click here for useful information on how to identify the best German host in your field.TWAS and DFG cannot provide any assistance in identifying a German host. Information sheet for the host institution in Germany:https://www.dfg.de/twas_information_sheet_host_institution_germany/ Informationsblatt für die gastgebende Einrichtung in Deutschland:https://www.dfg.de/twas_infoblatt_gastgebende_einrichtung_deutschland/ Submitting your application Applicants must complete the online application form by clicking on the 'Apply now' button at the bottom of this page. While filling in the online application, applicants also need to upload the following documentation: scanned copy of your passport, even if expired (page with your name and surname); a recent invitation letter from a German host: - maximum two pages on the host institution’s letterhead paper, - it should contain the proposed time of the visit (up to 3 months) and should refer to the proposed cooperation. The results of the selection will be available in January/February 2027. Therefore, the visit can take place between February 2027 and February 2028. - It should be made evident that the applicant and the proposed host have mutually agreed on the research proposal that will be submitted; - confirmation that the necessary research facilities are available; two reference letters from senior scientists familiar with your work. The letters need to be on headed paper and signed; copy of the PhD certificate; evidence of proficiency in either English or German; supporting statement from the Head/Director of the applicant's home institute: it must confirm that the Head/Director is favourable to the application and that the applicant will be granted leave to take up the cooperation visit in Germany if awarded. Other information TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits do not include provisions for accompanying family members. Applications for part-time visits will be considered ineligible. Successful applicants must not take up other assignments during the period of their Cooperation Visits. DFG shall be entitled to a repayment of all or part of any funds paid to an applicant hereunder, in the event that the applicant intentionally or negligently fails to fulfil any or all of the above conditions. The applicant agrees to pay any reasonable legal and/or collection costs incurred by DFG to obtain the repayment. Please be advised that applicants may apply for only one programme per calendar year in the TWAS and OWSD portfolio. Applicants will not be eligible to visit another institution in that year under the TWAS Visiting Professor programmes. One exception: the head of an institution who invites an external scholar to share his/her expertise under the TWAS Visiting Professor programmes may still apply for another programme. Please note that a detailed research proposal should be mutually agreed between the German host and the applicant before submitting it. Contact email: exchanges@twas.orgAPPLY NOW

Alliance for African Partnership (AAP) welcomes the largest cohort yet of African Futures Research L

Fourteen scholars from across the AAP consortium are embarking on a year-long program focused on artificial intelligence and sustainable futures East Lansing, Michigan — Alliance for African Partnership (AAP), a consortium of ten leading African universities, Michigan State University (MSU), and a network of African research institutes, is pleased to announce the sixth cohort of the African Futures Research Leadership Program, a competitive visiting scholar initiative supporting early career researchers from AAP member institutions. This year’s cohort — the largest in the program’s history — will explore the theme Artificial Intelligence in Africa: Transdisciplinary Innovations for Sustainable Futures. Each scholar is paired with mentors from their home institutions and MSU for one year of impactful research, professional development, including curriculum innovation, scholarly and policy writing, grant proposal development, as well as conference attendance. Scholars will engage both virtually and in person with mentors and colleagues across disciplines to co-create research that advances sustainable futures across the continent. “This sixth cohort marks a significant turning point for the African Futures Research Leadership Program,” said Jose Jackson-Malete, co-director of the Alliance for African Partnership. “Welcoming our largest and most interdisciplinary group of scholars to date highlights both the rising demand for collaborative research leadership opportunities and the strength of our partnerships across African institutions. The focus on artificial intelligence and sustainable futures also signals how the program continues to evolve to address emerging global and continental priorities while empowering scholars to lead transformative research in their fields.” This year’s scholars are: Patrick Wafula Wamalwa– Agricultural Engineering, Egerton University Evalyn Wanjiru Mwihia– Veterinary Pathology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Egerton University Florence Ndibuuza– Higher Education, Makerere University Evah Maina– Pharmacy and Health Sciences, United States International University – Africa Keiphe Nani Setlhatlhanyo– Industrial Design and Technology, University of Botswana Bakadzi Moeti– Educational Foundations, Faculty of Education, University of Botswana Thabang Madigoe– Business Management, University of Pretoria Sean Kruger– Economic and Management Sciences, University of Pretoria Sphiwe Skhosana– Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria Daurice Nyirongo– Open, Distance and eLearning (ODeL), Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources Elhadji Bassirou Toure– Mathematics and Computer Science, Université Cheikh Anta Diop Nedson Theonest Kashaija– Water Resources Engineering, University of Dar es Salaam Fochi Amabilis Nwodo– Property Law, University of Nigeria, Nsukka Salimatou Traoré– English, Université Yambo Ouologuem of Bamako The program will begin in February 2026 with virtual collaboration, followed by an in-person residency for nine of the scholars at MSU from August through December 2026, and continued virtual engagement into early 2027. Due to new visa restrictions, five scholars will participate virtually during the entire program. Scholars will receive a small grant for research, teaching, and professional development, including conference participation and publication support, as well as a stipend during their MSU residency along with visa and travel support. AAP aims for this cohort to generate innovative research aligned with AI’s potential to contribute to sustainable development in Africa — from health and education to environment, culture, governance, and entrepreneurship — and to lay the groundwork for long-term academic partnerships and future funding opportunities. For more information, visit the Alliance for African Partnership website. This project is made possible with the philanthropic support of Carnegie Corporation of New York

By: Justin Rabineau

Wednesday, Feb 18, 2026

AGRI-FOOD SYSTEMS

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Senckenberg Global Fellowships

Senckenberg offers fellowships to highly motivated and talented early career scientists (doctoral candidates and postdoctoral researchers) from the Global South (Ext. Link: List of countries belonging to the Global South). The fellowships are awarded for a period of three to a maximum of six months each. Our goal is to support excellent research, to expand and strengthen the worldwide cooperation network and to contribute to the global exchange of knowledge. We cordially invite you to apply for a Global Fellowship fellowship at Senckenberg. Our fellows will have access to the 41 million objects in our Senckenberg collection, to our research laboratories and research infrastructures, to our libraries, and to the expertise of our scientific staff. At Senckenberg, you will find optimal working conditions and open-minded colleagues with a broad range of scientific backgrounds in biodiversity, anthropology, geology, collection-based research, genomics, and conservation ecology. We look forward to hearing from you if you have an idea for a high-quality research project that you would like to implement together with a scientific host at Senckenberg. About the fellowship program The Global Fellowship Program addresses PhD students and postdocs from countries of the Global South (Ext. Link: List of all countries of the Global South). Regular application deadlines are March 1st (12 pm CET) and October 1st (12 pm CEST) of each year. Opening of online application submission 4 weeks before deadline. We offer fellowships for PhD students (1,600 €/month) or postdocs (2,700 €/month) for 3 months, in selected cases for up to 6 months. In addition to the stipend, we offer a one-time travel allowance (up to 1,200 €). Prerequisites Applicants from countries of the Global South will be considered. Applicants must hold a Master’s or PhD degree in one of Senckenberg’s research areas. You will contact a suitable scientist at Senckenberg, who can be your host, and together you will develop a concept for a suitable research topic, which you will spend the funded time working on at Senckenberg. This link to all Senckenberg institutes can help you find suitable hosts for your project ideas: all Senckenberg institutes. Please note that you are only eligible to receive a Senckenberg Global Fellowship if you do not receive a parallel project funding during the period of the fellowship. We would like to exclude double funding in any case. When submitting your application, please also note that it will take a maximum of 8 weeks to process your application before it is approved. After receiving approval, the fellowship must be started within 3 months. Required application documents Letter of motivation with information on your research interests and experience (max. 1 page, in the online form). Description of your project idea (planned goals, implementation) for the research to be carried out within the framework of the fellowship, agreed upon with your host at Senckenberg. Please explain how the submitted project topic would enrich your personal range of methods and your research portfolio (especially for postdocs). Is this research topic breaking new ground? (max. 1 page, in the online form) Letter of support from your host(s) at Senckenberg, acknowledging you and your proposed work, adding to the expertise of the host group, and outlining how your stay will add value to Senckenberg as well. Please explain how the named project topic fits into the Senckenberg research landscape, how the Fellow’s project will enrich the research of your working group and the research field as a whole. Will new ground be broken or existing knowledge gaps closed? (max. 1 page – upload) Your current curriculum vitae, including a complete list of your publications (upload) Certificates of your Master’s degree and, if applicable, of your PhD (upload) Optional: further letters of recommendation (e.g. from mentors, supervisors; upload) Please note that you can only apply online via our form. Please use our form/template for the texts under 1. and 2. and fill it out carefully and completely. Please make sure that the uploaded documents are complete. If any required documents are missing, we will unfortunately not be able to consider your application. The application form can be found on the Senckenberg website: Global Fellowships | Senckenberg Nature Research during the application period. Selection procedure A scientific selection committee will select the successful applications within approximately eight weeks after the application deadline. The selection committee is composed of renowned scientists from the Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung. The following evaluation criteria are applied: Scientific potential to reach the aims of the proposal Scientific excellence of the proposed work Prospects of developing a follow-up project to acquire additional funds Senckenberg supports equal opportunities for all genders and places particular emphasis on promoting career opportunities for women and underrepresented groups. Qualified women and other underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to equally qualified applicants with disabilities. Successful applicants and their hosts will be notified eight weeks after the application deadline. Project report A project report must be submitted within three months of completion of the project. An online form for the project report is available above. You must upload the following documents to the form: An informal, max. two-page report with the following content:a) the objective of the project (as per the application),b) the practical implementation,c) the results achieved andd) an outlook on planned publications and future plans. The text should not exceed 2 pages (excluding illustrations and diagrams). This confirmation form, fully completed and signed: Confirmation form Contact For organizational advice, please contact the e-mail address fellowships@senckenberg.de. For professional advice and consultation, please contact your professionally suitable potential hosts. Frequently asked questions Affiliation Applicants who do not currently have a temporary affiliation at a research institution are asked to contact us at fellowships@senckenberg.de. Application deadline Please send your application before March 1st (12 pm CET) and October 1st (12 pm CEST) of each year. Collections Natural History Collections are Senckenberg’s largest and most important research infrastructure. With around 40 million counting units, they represent the largest natural history collection in Germany and probably the sixth largest worldwide. You can find more about our collections here: https://www.senckenberg.de/en/collection/. Criteria A scientific selection committee will select the successful applications within approximately eight weeks after the application deadline. The selection committee is composed of renowned scientists from the Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung. The following evaluation criteria are applied: 1) Scientific potential to reach the aims of the proposal 2) Scientific excellence of the proposed work 3) Prospects of developing a follow-up project to acquire additional funds Equal opportunities Senckenberg supports equal opportunities for all genders and places particular emphasis on promoting career opportunities for women and underrepresented groups. Qualified women and other underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Equally qualified applicants with disabilities are given preference. Global South The OECD maintains a list of the so-called countries of the Global South, to which we adhere. The list is available at the following link: OECD List. You can find more information on how this list is being created here: https://www.oecd.org/oda.html. Grant / Stipend Young researchers who are temporarily abroad on another, fixed-term grant are eligible to apply, provided that double funding can be ruled out. Host - support letter Letter of support from your host at Senckenberg, acknowledging you and your proposed work, complementing the expertise of the host group and explaining how your stay will also add value to Senckenberg. Please explain how the named project topic fits into the Senckenberg research landscape, how the Fellow’s project will enrich the research of your research group and the research field as a whole. Will new ground be broken or existing knowledge gaps closed? (max. 1 page – upload) Institutes see https://www.senckenberg.de/en/research/institutes-overview/ Motivation letter Description of your project idea (planned goals, implementation) for the research to be carried out within the framework of the fellowship, agreed upon with your host at Senckenberg. Please explain how the submitted project topic would enrich your personal range of methods and your research portfolio (especially for postdocs). Is this research topic breaking new ground? (max. 1 page, in the online form) Project report A project report must be submitted within three months of completion of the project. An online form for the project report is available above. You must upload the following documents to the form: An informal, max. two-page report with the following content: (a) the objective of the project (as per the application), b) the practical implementation, c) the results achieved and d) an outlook on planned publications and future plans. The text should not exceed 2 pages (excluding illustrations and diagrams). This confirmation form, fully completed and signed: Confirmation form Report see Project report Research infrastructure The research infrastructure program comprises the infrastructure units that form the indispensable basis for research and are mostly also open to external users. Some of them are operated jointly with other institutions. Our research infrastructure includes collections, libraries, databases, laboratories and research platforms. More information can be found here. Residency Young researchers with permanent residence in Germany, EU countries, North America, Australia, etc. are not eligible to apply, regardless of their nationality. Selection procedure The selection process takes approximately up to eight weeks after submission of the application. Start of the fellowship Once you have received confirmation, you must start the scholarship within three months. If you are unable to meet this deadline for reasons beyond your control, such as a long processing time for your visa in your country, please contact fellowships@senckenberg.de as soon as possible. Postponing the start date by the required amount of time is therefore only possible in exceptional cases. Further delays are not possible and will result in the loss of the scholarship. Therefore, plan carefully in advance and apply in the application round that fits your schedule. Travel allowance If the travel costs exceed 1,200 €, the difference must be intercepted in other ways. Travel expenses Please advance the cost of your journey if possible. The costs will be reimbursed up to a maximum of 1,200 € after your arrival in Germany. If this is not possible, your host will book the trip for you – please make appropriate arrangements. Visa In order to take advantage of our Fellowship in Germany, you will need some documents from Senckenberg: 1) a letter of invitation 2) a visiting scientist contract 3) a hosting agreement. In case of your sponsorship, we will be happy to help you with these documents and with all further necessary steps and official matters.

Call for Papers: Academic Freedom as a Practice of Democracy

Volume 17: Academic Freedom as a Practice of Democracy At a panel during the Coalition for Action in Higher Education’s April 2025 national protest, urban and cultural studies scholar Davarian Baldwin made a rousing call for courage in the face of political and material repression in US colleges and universities: “We are the power that we have been waiting for.” Responding to this call, the 2026 volume of the AAUP’s Journal of Academic Freedom seeks to showcase work of students, educators, and activists—and of unions, scholarly associations, and other governance bodies—in fighting back against repression. The volume seeks submissions on initiatives that have been pursued, strategies that have been deployed, coalitions that have been built, and work that remains to be done in the fight for academic freedom. Submissions are due by March 9, 2026. We will consider any eligible submission relevant to the journal’s core focus on academic freedom. Topics of special interest for the volume include but are not limited to political education public outreach sanctuary campuses mutual defense compacts and other forms of coalition-building debt reveals boycott, divestment, and sanctions campaigns campus unionization protests and other forms of mass mobilization lawsuits political lobbying Check out the call for papers, submission guidelines, and editorial policy to learn more about this volume and past issues of the Journal of Academic Freedom. Questions? Reach out to jaf@aaup.org.

By: Aaron Dorner

Wednesday, Feb 11, 2026

CULTURE AND SOCIETY

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Michigan State University and the Alliance for African Partnership Awarded $895,000 Carnegie Grant

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Michigan State University and the Alliance for African Partnership Awarded $895,000 Carnegie Grant for REIMAGINE Project Advancing Graduate Education and AI in Africa Michigan State University (East Lansing, Michigan) has been awarded a 36-month, $895,000 grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York under its prestigious Higher Education in Africa program. The grant will support the Alliance for African Partnership (AAP) consortium’s efforts to advance innovative graduate education ecosystems across African universities and to develop a collaborative, transdisciplinary doctoral program focused on artificial intelligence. The AAP REIMAGINE initiative supports forward-thinking strategies that reshape higher education for the future. Through this investment, AAP—MSU’s flagship platform for equitable and sustainable collaboration with African higher education institutions—will expand its work to strengthen graduate student environments, enhance supervisory and research cultures, and foster institutional systems that enable student success on the continent. A key component of the project is the development of multiple Artificial Intelligence Doctoral Training Programs, designed to equip a new generation of African scholars with advanced AI expertise, research skills, and leadership capacity. The initiative will leverage MSU’s long-standing partnerships with universities across Africa, ensuring African-led direction, contextual relevance, and sustainability. “The REIMAGINE Project is fundamentally about examining how doctoral education and research ecosystems across African universities can evolve to better support transdisciplinary scholarship in artificial intelligence,” said Dr. Jose Jackson-Malete, Co-Director of the Alliance for African Partnership and Project Lead for the Carnegie-funded REIMAGINE initiative. “This work is critically needed now. Without intentional investment in doctoral training, supervision systems, and collaborative research environments, Africa risks falling behind in shaping—and benefiting from—the rapid advances in AI that are already transforming societies and economies worldwide.” Over the next three years, the project will: Review and strengthen policies for graduate student mentorship, supervision, and research environments across AAP member institutions. Support institutional innovations that promote student well-being, academic success, and professional development. Launch a continentally grounded transdisciplinary doctoral program focused on artificial intelligence, expanding access to emerging fields that drive economic and societal transformation. Foster deeper collaboration between MSU scholars and African research teams through joint programs, co-created curricula, and capacity-building initiatives. Since its inception in 2016, AAP has worked across the consortium and beyond to promote equitable partnerships, research excellence, and sustainable development solutions. This new investment from Carnegie marks a pivotal milestone in scaling AAP’s impact on higher education transformation. About the Alliance for African Partnership (AAP) AAP is a consortium convened by Michigan State University to promote collaborative, transdisciplinary partnerships among 10 member African institutions, MSU, and global stakeholders. The Alliance focuses on building capacity, supporting innovation, and advancing shared research priorities that address global challenges. About the Carnegie Corporation of New York Founded in 1911 by Andrew Carnegie, the Carnegie Corporation of New York is one of America’s oldest philanthropic foundations focused on advancing knowledge and understanding through grants in education, strengthening U.S. Democracy, international peace and security, and higher education in Africa, supporting initiatives that promote civic engagement, reduce polarization, and foster global cooperation, continuing Carnegie's legacy of social progress. The REIMAGINE program supports bold, future-focused approaches to revitalizing higher education and strengthening global knowledge systems.

By: Baboki Gaolaolwe-Major

Thursday, Jan 22, 2026

YOUTH EMPOWERMENT

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Africa Global Partnership Scholars

In an era where complex global challenges demand collective action, the need for international collaboration and knowledge sharing has never been more critical. Africa Global Partnership Scholars Program (Africa GPS) is a cohort-based program, designed for early to mid-career MSU faculty to create and deepen new scholarly partnerships with collaborators and peer institutions in Africa in support of MSU’s global mission. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES: Foster the development of a group of faculty members dedicated to establishing and enhancing international research connections, collaborating on solutions with African partners, and adopting a global perspective in their scholarly work Support MSU’s 2030 strategic plan goal of discovery, creativity and innovation for excellence and global impact Connect MSU faculty with potential collaborators and mentors in Africa, expand the scholars' international networks, and offer support for establishing long-lasting collaborations Heighten global awareness and research dialogue Elevate the status of MSU’s global mission Capitalize on opportunities to leverage external resources and form partnerships ELIGIBILITY FOR APPLICATION Tenure-stream or fixed term faculty at Michigan State University without prior scholarly experience in Africa are eligible to apply for Africa GPS. REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS As part of the application process, the applicant must submit the following materials: Completed application questionnaire An up-to-date curriculum vitae (max 4 pages) A one-page statement that describes your reasons for applying, potential research focus, and if known, the AAP consortium institution and African country of interest for the collaboration. If needed, AAP can help identify the country, mentor and/or the collaboration partner based on the applicant’s interests. A letter expressing strong support from the Chair/School Director/Dean. The letter should affirm: The candidate’s international interest, experience, and/or research The candidate’s strengths as a researcher within the context of unit expectations The candidate’s proposed project will advance the mission and goals of the academic unit, be supported by the unit, and benefit international partners Applicants are encouraged to obtain a commitment from their unit or college to provide a 20% cost share. While cost sharing is not required, preference will be given to proposals that include this match. FUNDING To facilitate the participation of faculty members selected as Africa GPS Fellows, AAP will provide support for the following: Up to $10,000 in support of international travel and scholarly collaborations with a researcher and/or mentor at an AAP Consortium member institution. The $10,000 may be used to support the MSU faculty members’ individual travel, collaborative research activities or to bring an African partner to MSU. Connection with potential collaborators, mentors, and institutions in Africa Structured workshops on establishing and navigating international partnerships Financial Guidelines: The financial support must be expended prior to the end of the program (one year after awarded). Preference will be given to applicants who provide a 20% match from the applicant’s unit, department or college. PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS Africa GPS participants are expected to develop a sustainable collaboration with peer researchers at an AAP consortium institution. As a result, within two years of being selected for the program, the scholar is expected to achieve the following outputs: A collaborative research paper coauthored with their African collaborator to be submitted for publication. A concept note of a proposal submitted to a funding agency to sustain the partnership with the African collaborator. Progress reports submitted every six months to AAP documenting how the collaboration is progressing and any challenges that may have arisen. Attend program orientation, professional development workshops organized by AAP, and other relevant events as shared by the AAP team. SELECTION CRITERIA FOR GLOBAL RESEARCH FELLOWS The criteria below will be utilized to evaluate candidates for their selection to the Africa GPS program: Commitment Level: Applicants need to show a readiness to dedicate the necessary time to maximize the benefits of the Fellowship year, along with a proven scholarly potential that supports such a commitment. Research Interest: Candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to international research and articulate how participation in Africa GPS will contribute to their personal and professional development Unit Support: Candidates must have strong support from relevant departmental or school and college administrators, indicated by enthusiastic recommendations. Alignment of Interests: The applicant’s international research interests should align with the Africa GPS’s mission to foster excellence in international research. Apply here: https://msu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bIS1j4JJxUE2voq SELECTION OF FELLOWS Application materials will be reviewed by a selection committee in International Studies and Programs. Scholars will be announced by May 2026. Funds must be transferred to selected scholars by June 30, 2026. If you have any questions, please contact Justin Rabineau at: rabinea1@msu.edu

AAP Steps Up Its Global Footprint at Falling Walls 2025

The Alliance for African Partnership (AAP) strengthened its global visibility this year with a significantly expanded presence at the Falling Walls Summit in Berlin, signaling a new phase in Africa’s engagement with one of the world’s leading platforms for science, innovation, and societal impact. The momentum follows a fast-growing collaboration between AAP and the Falling Walls Foundation, an alliance that has already produced tangible results. LUANAR in Malawi became the first institution in the consortium to launch a combined Falling Walls Engage and Lab, followed by the University of Botswana, which introduced the Gaborone Lab in 2025 and is preparing to roll out the Engage program in 2026. For AAP, these developments are more than individual wins: they mark the beginning of a wider rollout across the consortium, designed to strengthen research communication and create a more connected science engagement ecosystem across Africa. At this year’s Summit, AAP member universities made their strongest showing yet. Lab winners from LUANAR and the University of Botswana took the stage in Berlin, showcasing African innovation to an international audience of scientists, investors, policymakers, and global media. Senior leaders from across the consortium also attended, led by Michigan State University’s Vice-Provost for International Studies and Programs, Professor Titus Awokuse. During the delegation meeting with Falling Walls’ Executive Director, Andreas Kosmider, there was clear enthusiasm about the trajectory of the partnership. Discussions focused on deepening African participation in next year’s Summit and widening the circle of collaborators to include government ministries, policymakers, and funding agencies, an effort aimed at opening new channels for African–German cooperation. For AAP, the stakes are high. Strengthening research communication equips young African scientists to tell their stories compellingly, improving public understanding and increasing the influence of research on policy. The Labs, meanwhile, function as early-stage innovation pipelines, giving African entrepreneurs exposure, mentorship, and a global platform for emerging ideas. The partnership also enhances institutional visibility, positioning African universities as active players in global science diplomacy. Planning has already begun for next year’s Summit, with AAP leaders working on a coordinated roadmap to ensure a more visible and more diverse African presence in 2026. The goal is not simply to attend, but to shape the agenda by bringing African voices, research, and innovation to the centre of the global conversation. As AAP expands its Falling Walls footprint, the partnership is beginning to look less like a program and more like an ecosystem-building catalyst. It is strengthening the consortium internally, opening new possibilities externally, and giving African researchers and innovators a much-needed global stage. And if the early signs are anything to go by, the walls separating African science from global visibility are starting to crack, making space for a new era of collaboration and opportunity.

By: Baboki Gaolaolwe-Major

Thursday, Dec 11, 2025

CULTURE AND SOCIETY

+3

Culture in collaboration: repurposing folklore for youth empowerment

Africa, particularly Nigeria, has a teeming young population who attempt to creatively navigate rapidly shifting identities within an unstable economy. For them, storytelling becomes a powerful tool through which sense is made of their place in the world. My research on folklore reimagination interrogates how traditional narratives are transformed into contemporary artistic endeavour that reflect the social realities of the youth. Folklore reimagination thus becomes an avenue for skill acquisition and empowerment in a society plagued with mismanaged resources and youth unemployment. By perceiving folklore as a living resource rather than a mere relic of the past, my research attempts to revive cultural heritage into digital content for the screen, constituting a source of self-employment for young creatives. In addition to addressing SDG number 8 – decent work and economic growth, this research fosters partnerships between culture and performance, youth and communities, tradition and modernity, and between local narratives and a global audience, offering education opportunities and reduced poverty. The research goal is to develop a toolkit which serves as both a learning and teaching aid for students and teachers of creative writing, further resonating with SDG number 4. Besides offering a platform for creativity and skills acquisition leading to self-employment, this research provides a model for a cultural engagement that is rooted in heritage preservation, shared creativity, collaboration and mutual respect. The research, which began in 2022, is divided into three distinct phases – toolkit draft, evaluation and update. Phase one involves the draft of the toolkit, which is divided into 5 parts and provides ethical insights and guidelines on working with folklore from the point of collection until reimagination. Offering mostly a theoretical guide, this phase is completed, and phase two is in progress. Phase two demands working closely with student writers to test the toolkit draft. Through a close collaboration with my students, aspects of the toolkit are currently being tested for effectiveness. Through feedback provided by the students, the toolkit will be updated with practical guides and sample scenarios. Further updates are expected following curated workshops, writers’ conference and creative labs. The creation of this toolkit resonates with the theme for this newsletter - art in partnership. Currently under the mentorship of Dr Jeff Wray of Michigan State University and Professor Chinenye Amonyeze of University of Nigeria, this research highlights that art, generally and folklore in particular, is not just a memory of set time in history, but a flexible material that can be reshaped into performances and creative narratives with social and economic value, while fostering partnerships driven by art. Folklore reimagination is, at its heart, an art of cultural partnership which depends on collaborations between researchers and creatives. By centring youths as creative agents, it leverages heritage to build skills, empowerment and self-employment. In this partnership, cultural memory is perceived and treated as a resource for innovation and economic growth. This art of partnership is therefore a sustainable one built on shared stories – stories that bear identities shaped by the past, present and future.

By: Baboki Gaolaolwe-Major

Thursday, Dec 11, 2025

CULTURE AND SOCIETY

+1

2025 AAP Consortium Delegates Welcomed in Classic Warm Heart of Africa Style

Delegates to the AAP Consortium Meeting in Malawi were welcomed with a vibrant cultural reception on the afternoon of Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) Amphitheatre. The event offered a rich immersion into Malawi’s cultural heritage, from traditional dances that transported participants across the country, to rhythmic music echoing tales of generations past, complemented by a curated selection of local foods and beverages. Set in the warmth of Malawian hospitality, the reception also featured interactive activities celebrating African cultural diversity through language games and cultural lightning talks. Reception Planning The reception was carefully designed to celebrate cultural identity and diversity while ensuring an enjoyable and memorable experience for all attendees. Preparations began with identifying local performance groups whose artistry authentically reflects the Malawian cultural brand. Consultations with selected groups ensured a thoughtful balance of energetic and soothing performances suited to a diverse audience, ultimately creating a programme that offered a cultural tour of Malawi through music and dance. Organisers also coordinated with the hosting hotel to incorporate Malawian cuisine on the cocktail menu, showcasing the country’s culinary heritage. With the performances and menu in place, the reception hosts curated additional interactive activities to promote cultural exchange and engagement among delegates. Performances The Malawi National Dance Ensemble, popularly known as the Kwacha Cultural Troupe, headlined the afternoon. Established in 1987, the renowned 30-member troupe delivered a captivating sequence of traditional dances representing Malawi’s regions. Their repertoire included Beni, Chimtali, Chisamba, Chiterera, Mjedza, Malipenga, Ingoma, Mganda, Vimbuza, and Gule Wamkulu—the iconic masked dance of the Chewa people. Adding to the ambiance, Owen Mbilizi and his team offered a rich musical experience featuring original compositions and Malawian classics, blending skilled instrumentation with harmonious vocals. Delegates responded with enthusiastic applause and cheers throughout the performances. Local Foods Participants enjoyed an assortment of local delicacies, including mandazi, zitumbuwa (banana fritters), malambe (baobab) juice, and thobwa (sweet beer), alongside familiar continental snacks. The refreshment break provided an informal space for delegates to mingle, exchange reflections, and deepen their appreciation of the cultural showcase. Significance The cultural reception successfully highlighted Malawi’s artistic and culinary traditions while fostering a shared appreciation for cultural diversity among delegates. It was an afternoon filled with warmth, laughter, and a strong sense of community, the perfect icebreaker for the week’s engagements.

By: Baboki Gaolaolwe-Major

Tuesday, Dec 9, 2025

CULTURE AND SOCIETY

+1

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