AfricaLics

Call for Papers - 7th AfricaLics Research Conference
2026-11-10 - 2026-11-12 | Wits School of Governance,, 2 St. David’s Place, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa
The 7th AfricaLics Conference seeks to critically reflect on the relationship between innovation and society in Africa — examining power, inequality, and the social dimensions of innovation in the digital age. It calls for new, forward-thinking approaches to achieving shared development goals across the continent and globally.
Sub-Themes:

Historical, theoretical and conceptual perspectives on innovation and development
Political economy challenges for innovation in Africa
Digital revolution, AI, and the African gig economy
The creative sector, arts, and innovation
African knowledge traditions and innovation systems
Sustainability-oriented innovation (energy, water, agriculture, manufacturing, etc.)
Innovation policies and socio-economic transformation (STISA 2034, Agenda 2063, SDGs)
Financing innovation in key economic sectors
Innovation for sustainable health and wellbeing
Inclusive innovation, education and development (gender, youth, disability)

Ways to Participate:

1. Paper Presenter
Submit original, unpublished papers (max 8,000 words) aligned to conference sub-themes
2. Thematic Session Organiser
Submit concept notes for special sessions
3. Poster Presenter
Submit a one-page overview of your poster presentation
4. Day Delegate
Attend full conference; open to policymakers, researchers, and practitionersCall for Abstracts Now Open!
Important Dates:

Submission of papers and registration (ConfTool) opened on 1 March, 2026
Note: Abstract submission is encouraged for paper development and alignment with the conference theme. However, this does not guarantee acceptance of the paper. Nevertheless, full paper submission is still permissible without first submitting an abstract. 17 April, 2026
Notification of Abstract acceptance 15 May, 2026
Deadline for submission of full papers 17 July, 2026
Deadline for submission of concept papers for thematic sessions 17 July, 2026
Notification of paper acceptance (Reviews & Feedback) 28 August, 2026
Conference registration deadline 30 September, 2026
Deadline for up-loading of final paper 02 October, 2026
Conference Dates 10-12 November, 2026

Follow this link to learn more on the conference website.
