To promote and undertake scientific research on Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in the field of the social sciences and humanities; to function as a national centre in the field of African studies and to contribute to the education and teaching in these sciences; and to promote the dissemination of knowledge and an understanding of African societies in the wider public sphere.

The African Studies Centre is an independent scientific institute that undertakes social-science research on Africa and aims to promote a better understanding and insight into historical, current and future social developments in Sub-Saharan Africa. The ASC formulates a new research programme every five years, facing the developments on the African continent and at the same time building on the results of the Centre’s previous research.

Research & education
Library & publications
Development Partnerships
Tracking Development