Studying Africa at the School of International Studies: Growth and Challenges

This article examines the historical and institutional evolution of African Studies in India, with particular emphasis on the Centre for African Studies at the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University. It outlines the transformation of the field from a small sub-division established in 1955 into an independent academic centre by 2009—a shift that parallels the deepening of India–Africa diplomatic and economic relations. The article highlights the contributions of key scholars and their foundational work, demonstrating a transition from descriptive Area Studies to more nuanced analyses engaging with globalization, diaspora studies and South–South cooperation. It also situates the discipline within the wider academic landscape of Indian universities and underscores the importance of outreach initiatives in bridging academia and policy. In doing so, the article reflects on how African Studies in India has increasingly adopted interdisciplinary and policy-relevant approaches, aligning itself with contemporary global realities. It further points to the growing need for strengthening research capacity and expanding thematic coverage within the field. Overall, the article presents African Studies as an essential framework for interpreting contemporary global dynamics and strengthening international partnerships.