BECOMING A MEMBER
ACAF believes that academic freedom is vital for the realisation of the right to education, freedom of expression, the right to science, democracy, and sustainable development. By becoming a member, you are joining a network of passionate individuals and institutions committed to safeguarding academic freedom and democracy on the African continent.
Eligibility
The Coalition is open to individuals and institutions who are committed to the defence and promotion of academic freedom. Eligible members include academics, research faculty, scientists, leaders and administrators of higher education institutions, students, media professionals, lawyers, human rights defenders and activists from civil society organisations.
Requirements
- Commitment to academic freedom.
- Willingness to actively participate in ACAF’s discussions and initiatives, including advocacy, research, awareness-raising campaigns, monitoring/supervision, and contributing to the coalition’s collective efforts.
- Readiness to collaborate with other members and partners of the coalition across the continent and beyond.
Member benefits
As a member of ACAF, you will have the opportunity to:
01
Network and collaborate
Connect with a diverse group of academics, activists, and institutions across Africa and beyond, committed to defending academic freedom and intellectual autonomy.
02
Access resources and training
Participate in specialised workshops, conferences, advocacy training, and strategic litigation aimed at promoting academic freedom, with attention to regional and cultural particularities.
03
Contribute to change
Engage in advocacy initiatives that seek to bridge the gap between academia and society, influencing political agenda and raising awareness on the importance of academic freedom as a cornerstone of democracy and human rights.
04
Support at-risk scholars
Assist in the design and implementation of rescue packages for at-risk African scholars, with a focus on providing sanctuary and support within African universities.
05
Test case litigation
ACAF shall review national laws that affect university administration and regulation and institute test case litigation to challenge stifling laws that impact negatively on the exercise of academic freedom.
06
Monitoring
Support monitoring of academic freedom violations and report them or use them as tools to promote advocacy.
07
African Principles on Academic Freedom
Assist in the review of the Kampala Declaration on Intellectual Freedom and Social Responsibility and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to develop the new African Principles on Academic Freedom which reflect the peculiar experiences of higher education in Africa.
BECOME A MEMBER
To become a member, please click on the link below to fill out the form