Overview of the Africa Thesis Award
The Africa Thesis Award is a prestigious annual initiative organized by the African Studies Centre Leiden, designed to recognize and celebrate outstanding master’s theses focused on African topics.
Established over two decades ago, this award encourages scholarly research and writing on Africa, promoting academic excellence and raising global awareness of African Studies. Winners not only receive a cash prize of €500 but also gain the opportunity to have their thesis published in the renowned African Studies Collection.
Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify for the Africa Thesis Award, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Completion Date and Institution: The master’s thesis must have been completed between 31 August 2024 and 31 August 2025 at a university located in either The Netherlands or an African country.
- Research Focus: The thesis must be grounded in empirical research within the Social Sciences or Humanities. Relevant fields include, but are not limited to, geography, political science, anthropology, development studies, economics, history, religion, and literature.
- Geographical Scope: The research must concentrate on an African country, region, or its diaspora.
- Grading Requirement: The thesis must have achieved a minimum grade of 8 out of 10 according to the Dutch grading system or an equivalent grade (such as an A or higher) from non-Dutch universities.
- Language: Submissions must be in English, French, or Dutch. If submitted in Dutch, a five-page summary in English is mandatory.
Selection Criteria
The jury will evaluate submitted theses based on the following aspects:
- Originality of Research: The thesis should present innovative insights or approaches related to African Studies.
- Theoretical Framework and Methodology: A robust and clearly articulated theoretical framework and research methodology are essential.
- Scientific and Societal Relevance: The work should contribute meaningfully to academic knowledge and demonstrate societal impact.
- Style and Readability: Preference will be given to well-written, engaging texts that appeal to both academic and broader audiences.
Application Process
Applicants must submit a complete package containing:
- A digital PDF version of the full thesis.
- A summary of no more than 300 words.
- A signed letter of recommendation from the student’s supervisor. This letter should confirm the thesis’ quality, grade awarded, and institutional affiliation.
- For Dutch-language theses, an additional five-page summary in English.
Submissions must be sent via email to [email protected]. Only complete applications will be reviewed.
Deadline: All entries must be received by 30 September 2025.
Award Ceremony
The winner will be honored at a dedicated Africa Thesis Award Ceremony. During this event, the laureate will present their research findings, providing an opportunity for engagement with scholars and experts in the field.
Jury Panel for 2025
The jury comprises leading experts in African Studies and related fields:
- Dr. Tanja Hendriks (Chair, KU Leuven)
- Dr. Agnieszka Kazimierczuk (Independent researcher and thinker)
- Mandipa Ndlovu (PhD candidate, African Studies Centre Leiden)
- Dr. Jody Metcalfe (Researcher, Utrecht University)
- Joost Bastmeijer (Africa correspondent)
The jury’s decision is final, and no further correspondence regarding the outcome will be entertained.
Additional Information
For inquiries or further details, applicants are encouraged to contact the African Studies Centre Leiden at [email protected].
This award provides an exceptional platform for emerging scholars to gain recognition and contribute to the vibrant field of African Studies. By combining rigorous academic standards with the promotion of societal impact, the Africa Thesis Award fosters research that is both innovative and relevant.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the awarding organization. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
