The Center for African Studies houses a matrix of ways to engage with Africa from home and on the continent. We provide resources, guidance, and networking opportunities for students, faculty, and staff across the university who aspire to engage with Africa and bring African knowledge into their scholarship and praxis. Pitt Embraces Africa builds on the Global Plan for Pitt, with the goal of taking Pitt to the world and bringing the world to Pitt; preparing and supporting globally minded students, faculty, and staff; ensuring global impact; and providing global operations support.

A key aspect of this initiative is developing and strengthening partnerships in Africa in places such as Senegal, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. Pitt has several interdisciplinary teams establishing research collaborations with institutions in these countries.

Vice Chancellor for Global Affairs and Director of the University Center for International Studies Ariel Armony is one of the initiative’s strongest supporters. Armony said, “Pitt Embraces Africa is a wonderful way to bring together all of the University’s work in and around the continent...We are launching some exciting partnerships and new opportunities for students. Embracing Africa is embracing the future, and I’m thrilled at current developments and even more excited for what’s to come.”

Ongoing Initiatives