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About

CSASE is a faculty-led, student-partnered, and alumni-empowered research center that bridges gaps between theory and praxis by connecting the most complex problems on the African continent with the most creative minds on Harvard’s campus. The Center promotes research excellence, provides networks of mentors, facilitates student internships and professional development, and forges institutional partnerships directed at Africa’s greatest needs and priorities in a technologically mediated global society.

Research

We seek to advance knowledge, foster innovation, and address critical challenges facing African countries through cutting-edge research. Our interdisciplinary approach brings together experts from diverse fields to produce research outputs that have a tangible impact on the African continent.

Funding

We are committed to supporting innovative projects and initiatives that align with our mission and values. We provide financial support in the following key areas:

Research and Development

We fund groundbreaking Africa-centered research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge and contributes to advancement of African societies.

Scholarships

We offer funding for scholarships, educational programs that promote access to learning opportunities, and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of education at all levels.

Creative Arts and Culture

We support cultural heritage preservation efforts, art exhibitions, and creative projects.

We invite applications from Harvard faculty and researchers working on innovative and impactful projects.

To start the application process, please email us a brief description of your project.

Fellowships

The application window for CSASE’s Spring ’25 fellowships is now open.

Application  →

Our Vision

To steward with excellence a dynamic Harvard community engaged in study, research, and policy design that addresses critical socioeconomic, governance, cultural, and technological developments in and affecting Africa, within an integrated ecosystem comprising faculty, students, alumni, and affiliates to measurably advance human flourishing in Africa.

Our Mission

Economic Impact in Sierra Leone
Driving Impact
Leveraging Harvard faculty research for meaningful policy impact
Pillar 1
Driving Impact
Strengthening institutional health in Africa | Nairobi
Strengthening Institutions
Strengthening institutions in and regarding the African continent
Pillar 2
Strengthening Institutions
Developing Leaders for Africa's Flourishing
Developing Leaders
Facilitating the intellectual development of leaders planning and/or affecting the future of Africa
Pillar 3
Developing Leaders

Our Strategic Areas

01

Innovation and New Technologies

02

Public Health

03

Law, Institutions & Governance

04

The Creative Sector (Music, Art, Film)

Alumni Spotlight

Plenyono Gbe Wolo, Coll. 1917

Professor Plenyono Gbe Wolo (1883 – 1940) – educator, theologian, lawyer, and son of a Kru chief – became the first Black African to graduate from Harvard University on June 21, 1917. Throughout his illustrious career, Wolo contributed greatly to the educational and social advancement of his country, Liberia, and the broader region. He was actively involved in initiatives aimed at empowering women and marginalized communities and a leading voice in legal reforms to strengthen the rule of law and access to justice in Liberia. Through his momentous accomplishments, Wolo continues to inspire and shape the next generation of leaders in his country and across the African continent.

Keep Reading  →

Partners