African Dynamics

Home to more than 1.5 billion people, Africa - the world’s second-largest continent, comprising 54 sovereign states, is exceptionally diverse in its cultures, economies, and ecosystems. Its population is projected to double within the next 30 years, with more than half living in urban areas. At the same time, Africa has the youngest global population, with approximately 65 percent under the age of 35 - a demographic reality that presents both immense potential and significant responsibility.

From the vast Sahara Desert to the resource-rich Congo Basin and the biodiverse landscapes of Southern Africa, the continent holds extraordinary ecological and mineral wealth that is vital to both its own future and global sustainability. Yet Africa also faces complex, interconnected challenges shaped by climate change, migration flows, inequality, resource scarcity, and geopolitical instability - issues that exemplify today’s ‘wicked problems.’

Through an unique alliance between Leiden University, Delft University of Technology and Erasmus University Rotterdam (LDE) , this multidisciplinary minor offers an opportunity to view these threats from different perspectives. Three complementary courses builds on the ambitions of the African Union Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Agenda 2030, and challenges mainstream practices with a frugal discourse.

After establishing a solid foundation in Africa’s historical trajectories, contemporary dynamics, and future prospects, the minor integrates academic inquiry with experiential learning through a six-week field study in Kenya. A close-knit cohort of LDE and Kenyan university students travels across Kenya, working in small, multidisciplinary teams that engage directly with local contexts, institutions, and communities, followed by structured virtual collaboration between Dutch and African-based peers. By valuing practical knowledge, mutual exchange, and co-creation, the programme fosters critical reflection, meaningful cross-cultural dialogue, and a deeper appreciation of how Africans interpret their realities and actively shape their futures.

Maximum number of students: 40 Prospectus number: 5000MAFDYN Language: English Registration: via [EduXchange]( https://eduxchange\.nl/\) see More Info 19 May (13:00hrs) until 30 June 2026

The minor aims to equip students from diverse disciplines with the knowledge and skills to critically engage with and strengthen Africa’s role in a globalised world in integrated and sustainable ways. It prepares future leaders to navigate socio-economic inequalities, resource constraints, climate adaptation challenges, and geopolitical complexities, while remaining attentive to how Africans themselves understand their continent and their place in the world.

The first two courses:

1. Provide historical and contemporary insight into the forces that have shaped Africa and its future trajectories.
2. Immerse students in real-life contexts to explore social, economic, infrastructural, environmental, and political challenges and opportunities.

The final course builds on this by:

1. Introducing key policy frameworks, multi-stakeholder partnerships, knowledge platforms, and funding mechanisms.
2. Enabling students to conceptualise and assess adaptive projects and partnerships.
3. Developing skills in participatory partnership through collaboration with students from African universities.

• Intended for third-year students from all disciplines at the LDE universities.
• The minor comprises 30 ECs over one semester. EUR students have the option to discontinue after completing 15 ECs.
• Combines academic study with experiential learning: direct engagement in real-world contexts, supported by structured reflection, critical analysis, and applied practice to deepen understanding and strengthen practical skills.
• Includes a six-week immersive field study in collaboration with Kenyan students, followed by a six-week Small Private Online Course (SPOC), also conducted in partnership with Kenyan peers.
• Language of instruction: English.

A maximum of 40 students can participate in the minor. Places are allocated on a first-come for students from each of the three LDE universities.

Enrol via EduXchange from 19 May – 30June 2026 and submit the Background and Commitment Form

Further information: African Studies Centre Leiden

Combining this study with other courses, internships, or exam resits is strongly discouraged, as the programme requires full commitment and active participation throughout its duration.

The six-week field study is a mandatory and defining component of the minor and takes place from early October to mid-November. Rather than a conventional study abroad programme, it is designed for students who are willing to embrace challenge and collaborative learning. The programme offers a transformative experience that calls for adaptability, openness, and the courage to step beyond familiar academic and cultural frameworks.

Students cover their own programme-related costs, such as group transport, accommodation, and meals, which are organised collectively. In addition, they are responsible for their own preparatory arrangements, including flights, visas, insurance, vaccinations, and other personal expenses. In due course, the minor coordinators will share information on possible opportunities to apply for study-abroad scholarships.

Education Coordinator: Madi Ditmars Academic Coordinator: Dr. Anika Altaf Board of Examiners: African Studies Education Committee: African Studies BA

No specific prior knowledge of, or familiarity with the African continent is required.