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Exhibition from November 5 to December 19, 2025, at the FZA of the University of Bayreuth, no registration required, open to the public.
Africa in Bayreuth. Bayreuth's African studies as reflected in politics and the media
Today, Bayreuth is the largest Africa center in Europe. Unlike in cities such as Cologne, Hamburg, Berlin, London, or Paris, African studies in Bayreuth did not follow on from colonial predecessor institutions. The exhibition tells this unique story—from its beginnings in the 1970s to its current international significance.
What once began as a political project of Bavaria quickly developed into a place of intellectual encounter – and also social friction. As early as the 1980s, Bayreuth researchers were committed to a principle that still applies today: shaping African studies with Africa – not just about Africa. Today, the Africa Multiple Cluster of Excellence continues this vision: as a global network for research, dialogue, and exchange.
Institutions: IAS; Cluster Africa Multiple; UBT
DISCLAIMER: Concept, research, texts: Dr. Ibrahima Sene / Chair of African History
Design: fresh!Advertising. Collaboration: Prof. Joël Glasman © 2025 IAS / Cluster Africa Multiple. All rights reserved.
Thanks to: University Archive, Bayreuth City Archive, Institute for Franconian Regional History, Iwalewahaus, City of Bayreuth, Nordbayerischer Kurier, Frankenpost.
This exhibition was funded by the DFG as part of the Excellence Initiative (EXC2025/1-390713894).
Studying African History
Research partners of the African History Department
