Center for African Studies at the University of Florida

Happy to see our CAS Director Dr. Miles Larmer in Morocco June 10th, partnering with UM6P's Institute for Advanced Studies for a masterclass on African Studies. We are grateful for opportunities to build global connections and foster meaningful dialogue across institutions.

As the global transition toward clean energy accelerates, demand for critical minerals such as lithium is reshaping political, economic and environmental dynamics across the Global South.

On Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 10:30 AM in Salle Laâyoune, UM6P - Mohammed VI Polytechnic University Campus Benguerir, the Institute for Advanced Studies (IAS-UM6P), in collaboration with the UM6P Africa Initiative, will welcome Prof. Miles Larmer, Director of the Center for African Studies at the University of Florida, for a seminar examining the governance challenges and societal expectations surrounding Ghana’s emerging lithium industry.

Drawing on field research and interviews with policymakers, industry actors and local communities, this seminar will explore how questions of value creation, environmental stewardship and social beneficiation are influencing the future of lithium mining in Ghana and, more broadly, the politics of transition minerals in Africa.

Hope on Pause?: The Politics of New Lithium Mining in Ghana

Prof. Miles Larmer is Director of the Center for African Studies and Professor of History at the University of Florida. His research focuses on African political, social and environmental history, with recent work examining the opportunities and challenges created by the growing global demand for transition minerals.

Congrats Graduates!!

Congratulations to our new PhDs Dr. Aaron King, Dr. Audrey Culver Smith, Dr. Austin Britton, Dr. Ian Pshea-Smith, Dr. Gavriella Hecht, Dr. Zainab Ali, and Dr. Zeyu He!

One year of language in just 8 weeks. 🔥
AFLI students dive into African languages with native instructors, conversation sessions, and even host family visits for real-world practice.
https://africa.ufl.edu/academics-programs/african-languages/afli/

Bring Africa into your classroom
The University of Florida Center for African Studies Teachers’ Institute equips K-12 educators with the tools to teach Africa’s geography, history, and culture.
✔️ $400 stipend upon completion
✔️ Real lesson plans you can use immediately

Spots are limited—apply by May 25!
🔗 Learn more: https://africa.ufl.edu/outreach/teachers-institute/

Become a CAS Ambassador!

We are looking for passionate, driven students to represent the Center for African Studies. As an ambassador, you will promote programs, engage your community, and help shape the future of African scholarship at the University of Florida.

Link here: https://africa.ufl.edu/people-2/student-groups/ambassadors/cas-ambassadors-application-form/

The Lens on Africa Graduate Research Video Competition is BACK for 2026 — we want to see YOUR research!
UF graduate students: if your research touches on Africa or African-related themes, this is your moment to shine. Submit a 3–5 minute video showcasing your work and compete for:
1st Place: $750
2nd Place: $500
3rd Place: $250
Prize money supports research travel in Africa or presentation at an Africa-related conference.

📅 Deadline: August 21, 2026
🔗 Learn more & submit: africa.ufl.edu/funding-opportunities/lens-on-africa-graduate-research-video-competition-25/