University Partnerships

U.S. Africa Institute facilitates transformative university partnerships among U.S. higher education institutions and between American and African universities. Through our University Partnership initiatives, we build sustainable academic and research collaborations that advance capacity building, research excellence, and meaningful faculty and student exchanges.

Academic and Research Partnerships

We broker and support strategic partnerships between African and American universities in key areas including:

• Capacity Building: Institutional development, curriculum enhancement, and infrastructure strengthening
• Research Collaboration: Joint research projects, co-authored publications, and shared research resources
• Faculty Exchange: Visiting scholar programs, collaborative teaching opportunities, and professional development
• Student Exchange: Study abroad programs, dual degree pathways, and cross-cultural learning experiences
• Institutional Development: Administrative partnerships, best practice sharing, and systems strengthening

American Spaces Partnership Program

As part of our University Partnership program, we offer academic support programs to students in partnership with American Spaces, which are integral components of the Office of Public Affairs at U.S. Embassies worldwide. This innovative program advances the shared cultural roots and bonds between African and American students and young professionals, providing a powerful bridge for connection and an opportunity to share new learnings through education, cultural exchange, volunteerism, and leadership development.

Collaborative Program Design

Our course curriculum offerings are thoughtfully designed based on the skills and talents of our volunteer pool in combination with American Spaces’ recommended program areas. We employ a collaborative team approach for all aspects of program design, including:

• Course curriculum development aligned with student needs and institutional priorities
• Strategic planning that integrates local context and global perspectives
• Instructional delivery that leverages diverse expertise and teaching methodologies
• Continuous assessment and program refinement based on participant feedback

Learning Clubs Initiative

As a result of our collaborative partnership developed in 2021 with American Spaces, six dynamic Learning Clubs have emerged that drive our course design and implementation:

• Cross-Cultural Book Club: Exploring literature that bridges African and American experiences
• Creative Club (STEAM): Fostering innovation through Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics
• Debate/Human Rights/International Relations Club: Developing critical thinking and advocacy skills on global issues
• English Language Development Club: Building language proficiency and communication skills
• Environmental Health Science Club: Addressing environmental challenges through scientific inquiry and community action
• American Culture and History Club: Deepening understanding of American society, history, and cultural traditions

These Learning Clubs create vibrant communities of practice where students engage in peer learning, develop leadership skills, and build lasting cross-cultural connections.

Impact and Vision

Through our University Partnership & Global Exchange Program, we create pathways for academic excellence, cultural understanding, and global citizenship. By connecting institutions, scholars, and students across continents, we advance educational equity, research innovation, and the development of future leaders equipped to address global challenges through collaboration and mutual respect.