PhD research - African Studies

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PhD research - African Studies My name is Tim Hunt, Managing Director of World Student Advisors. I’m keen to hear ideas on how we can advance the visibility of African Studies.

PhD Africa Research highlights serious discussion on academic work relating to the African continent. I am study for a PhD n modern African history at the University of Ghent, Belgium. My research area is based around the life experience of a late Tanzanian, Mzee Issac Bhoke Muller Munanka. Known more popularly as Bhoke Munanka or Mzee. (Mzee is a respectful Swahili term an elder). I met him after two of his granddaughters graduated from a Higher Education College in North-London where I was the Director of International Relations. Munanka was a walking encyclopaedia of modern African history, I enjoyed his company and many fascination conversations. He was well known freedom fighter in the ‘50s during the time when Nationalism was evolving in Tanganyika. He met Julius Nyerere in the mid ‘50s who became founding President of Tanganyika. Nyerere was instrumental in the union with Zanzibar forming Tanzania in 1964. My research involves a biographical analysis of Munanka’s life experiences and an assessment of his agency by using a thematic approach. Lots of questions for example, ‘how instrumental was Mzee in the development of Tanganyika Nationalism in the 50’s?’. ‘Did Mzee play a role in the creation of PAFMECA the forerunner to the OAU’s Liberation Committee?’ ‘Following the Arusha Declaration in 1967 when Nyerere disclosed his Ujaama socialist policy. Munanka left the government service but was given an unofficial office in the State House working for the Office of the President. What tasks did he undertake for Nyerere?’ ‘Why is it when I read books based on events in Tanzania in the ‘60s and ‘70s Munanka is present by his absence?’ ‘Did Nyerere keep Munanka for covert tasks and responsibilities that have never been revealed?’ ‘Was Munanka the person given responsibility for the many freedom fighting movements and people in exile in Dar-es-Salaam during the ’60 and 70s?’ ‘What contribution to the historiography of Tanzania can be made by an examination of the life experience of Mzee Issac Bhoke Muller Munanka?’ Through this page, I am hoping to find people who could contribute to my research.

Birmingham City University Within the UK Higher Education LandscapeFor students considering studying in the UK, it is im...
16/10/2026

Birmingham City University Within the UK Higher Education Landscape

For students considering studying in the UK, it is important to look beyond rankings and focus on institutions that provide an appropriate balance of academic quality, practical learning and student support.

Birmingham City University represents a growing category of UK institutions that place significant emphasis on employability, professional practice and engagement with industry.

For African students in particular, preparation is often more important than the institution itself. A clear academic plan, realistic financial preparation and a strong understanding of academic expectations frequently determine student outcomes.

The UK continues to offer valuable educational opportunities, but long-term success depends greatly on how well students prepare before arrival.

I am happy to support students considering this route.

• Dedicated support from enquiry to enrolment, including applications, admissions guidance, CAS support, visa preparation and pre-departure planning.

Students interested in studying in the UK should begin planning early for the January 2027 intake.

Tim Hunt
Managing Director, World Student Advisors.

Looking at Anglia Ruskin University for January 2027 EntryWhen evaluating UK postgraduate study, the focus should move b...
13/10/2026

Looking at Anglia Ruskin University for January 2027 Entry

When evaluating UK postgraduate study, the focus should move beyond brand recognition and toward institutional structure, delivery, and alignment with the student’s academic aims.

Universities such as Anglia Ruskin, with its iconic campus in the famous city of Cambridge, represent a modern segment of UK higher education that combines professional programmes, applied research, and multiple learning environments across different cities.

For postgraduate applicants, particularly those in business, health, and professional disciplines, success depends less on headline rankings and more on course fit, preparation, and realistic financial planning.

In UK postgraduate education, outcomes are shaped by clarity of intention long before arrival.

I would be happy to talk to anyone who is interested in studying abroad to discuss logistics.

Happy to support families considering this pathway.

Tim Hunt
Managing Director, World Student Advisors.

Early Preparation Remains a Key Factor in Student SuccessAs discussions around international higher education continue, ...
09/10/2026

Early Preparation Remains a Key Factor in Student Success

As discussions around international higher education continue, one factor consistently emerges as a predictor of positive outcomes: preparation.

Students who engage early with programme research, financial planning, academic readiness and career objectives are generally better placed to make effective use of the opportunities available to them.

For African students considering UK higher education, the process should extend beyond choosing a university. It should involve understanding the purpose of study, expected outcomes and how the qualification supports wider professional goals.

At WSA, we advocate informed decision-making and evidence-based educational planning that helps students approach international study with clarity and confidence.

Happy to support students considering the PhD route.

Tim Hunt
Managing Director, World Student Advisors.

17/09/2026

I am currently reading David Olusoga’s Black and British: A Forgotten History. He highlights a striking historical juxtaposition.

On 1 August 1884, the British and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society held an “Anti-Slavery Jubilee” at London’s Guildhall. It marked the fiftieth anniversary of the abolition of slavery in most British colonies.

Just over three months later, the European Great Powers assembled at the Berlin Conference of 1884–85. No African representatives were present. The conference established rules for securing recognition of European territorial claims through “effective occupation”. It accelerated the Scramble for Africa and New Imperialism.

The contrast is striking. In the same year that Britain celebrated emancipation, European powers were creating a framework for extending their political, economic and territorial control over Africa.

History rarely offers a simple narrative of moral progress. The events of 1884 show how humanitarian ideals and imperial ambitions could coexist within the same political culture.

David Olusoga deserves great credit for this insightful and thought-provoking book. Highly recommended.

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