Founded in 1963, the Centre of African Studies at the University of Edinburgh is the only such academic unit in Scotland dedicated to the study of Africa.

Drawing on a proud history of links between Scotland and Africa, from the missionaries who played a major role in southern Africa to the African leaders, such as Julius Nyerere, who studied at Edinburgh, the Centre of African Studies brings together African expertise from across the University of Edinburgh, Scotland, and more widely. In turn, the Centre seeks to relate African Studies to the wider community, through links with NGOs and major educational and cultural organisations in Africa and Scotland.