Africa has become an increasingly important geopolitical partner for Europe. This development has significant implications for universities’ international engagement, not least because many of the global challenges that universities contribute to addressing can only be tackled through close, knowledge-based collaboration with partners in Africa.
This growing focus is reflected in increased national and EU attention to strategic university partnerships, knowledge exchange, and innovation, as well as in a rising interdisciplinary interest across Aarhus University’s faculties and professional environments in strengthening research collaboration with and in Africa.
This event brings together researchers and colleagues from across Aarhus University to explore current experiences, opportunities, and strategic perspectives related to AU’s engagement with and in Africa.
The afternoon will provide space for networking and exchange across faculties and disciplines, with a particular focus on sharing insights from research projects, partnerships, and collaborative initiatives. It will also offer an overview of funding opportunities as well as Aarhus University’s current strategic reflections and future direction in this area.
Time: Tuesday 23 June 2026, at 12-00 - 16:15
| 12.00 - 12.45 | Lunch and informal networking |
| 12.45 - 13.00 | Welcome remarks by AIAS Director Andreas Roepstorff |
| 13.00 - 13.25 | Introduction to the strategic focus on Africa and EU-level funding calls |
| 13.25 - 14.40 | Researchers from across Aarhus University will share their experiences, projects and perspectives |
| 14.40 - 15.00 | Coffee break and networking |
| 15.00 - 15.30 | Presentation by stakeholders in Africa/Denmark research collaboration |
| 15.30 - 16.00 | Presentation and joint discussion of AU’s strategic reflections and future directions by Søren Michael Sindbæk |
| 16.00 - 16.15 | Closing remarks and perspectives on next steps by Andreas Roepstorff |
Participation in the workshop is free of charge, but participants will need to cover their own travel and accommodation expenses.
Registration link can be found here
