The International Studies Association (ISA) is set to convene its 2026 Midyear Conference at the University of Pretoria, bringing together scholars, practitioners, and students from across the globe to examine critical questions about Africa’s role in international relations. Scheduled for June 29 to July 1, 2026, this gathering marks a significant moment for higher education in South Africa as the country hosts a major international academic event focused on epistemological approaches to African states and global dynamics.

Background on the International Studies Association and Its Midyear Events

The International Studies Association stands as one of the premier professional bodies for scholars in international studies, political science, and related fields. Established decades ago, it fosters research, teaching, and dialogue on global issues. Midyear conferences like this one complement the larger annual meetings by offering focused, regionally hosted opportunities that highlight specific themes and locations. Hosting the 2026 edition in Pretoria underscores growing recognition of African scholarship within the broader discipline.

Partnerships with host institutions such as the University of Pretoria provide essential infrastructure, local expertise, and opportunities for South African academics to engage directly with international peers. The University of Pretoria, a leading research-intensive institution in the country, offers state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant academic community well-suited to such an event.

The Conference Theme: African States vs States in Africa

Central to the event is the theme “African States vs States in Africa: An Epistemological Interrogation of Africa and the World.” This framing invites participants to critically examine distinctions between formal state structures and lived realities across the continent, challenging conventional Western-centric theories in international relations. Discussions are expected to explore how African knowledge systems, histories, and experiences reshape understandings of sovereignty, governance, and global interactions.

Such themes resonate deeply with ongoing debates in South African higher education about decolonizing curricula and elevating indigenous perspectives. Academics attending will have the chance to contribute papers, panels, and roundtables that advance these conversations, potentially influencing teaching and research agendas at universities nationwide.

Partnership with the University of Pretoria and Local Context

The collaboration between ISA and the University of Pretoria exemplifies productive ties between global academic networks and South African institutions. Program chairs Christopher Isike from the University of Pretoria and Nadine Machikou from the University of Dschang bring expertise in African politics and international studies, ensuring the program reflects both local priorities and international standards.

Pretoria’s selection as host city aligns with South Africa’s broader role in continental and global affairs, including its membership in BRICS and leadership in African Union initiatives. The conference venue benefits from the university’s secure campus environment and proximity to research hubs, facilitating rich exchanges among attendees.

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Preliminary Program and Key Sessions

A preliminary program has already been released, outlining a diverse array of panels, keynote addresses, and networking opportunities. Topics span security studies, economic integration, migration, environmental governance, and the intersection of technology with traditional diplomacy. Participants can expect sessions that blend theoretical innovation with empirical case studies from across Africa and beyond.

Workshops and professional development sessions tailored for early-career researchers and PhD candidates are also featured, addressing skills such as publishing in international journals and securing research funding. These elements directly support the career trajectories of emerging academics in South Africa’s higher education sector.

Opportunities for South African Academics and Institutions

For faculty and administrators at South African universities, the conference offers unparalleled networking with global counterparts. It provides a platform to showcase research from institutions like the University of Pretoria, University of the Witwatersrand, and Stellenbosch University, while fostering collaborations that could lead to joint publications or grant applications.

University leaders may draw insights on internationalisation strategies, curriculum development, and student mobility programs. The event also highlights the importance of investing in research infrastructure to attract and retain top talent in the competitive global academic market.

Registration, Travel, and Practical Details

Registration remains open through the official ISA channels, with options for in-person attendance at the University of Pretoria campus. Travel advisories emphasize the secure nature of the venue and recommend early booking of accommodation, including options at nearby facilities such as Future Africa. Limited travel grants are available to support participation from scholars in resource-constrained settings.

Attendees are encouraged to explore Pretoria’s cultural offerings alongside the academic program, enhancing the overall experience and promoting a holistic view of South African higher education environments.

Broader Implications for Higher Education in South Africa

Events of this scale contribute to elevating the profile of South African universities on the world stage. They support national goals outlined by the Department of Higher Education and Training around research excellence, international collaboration, and transformation. By hosting such conferences, institutions demonstrate capacity to lead in specialized fields like international studies.

Longer-term outcomes may include increased citation rates for African-authored work, enhanced postgraduate training programs, and stronger linkages between academia and policy-making circles in Pretoria and beyond.

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Future Outlook and Sustainability of Regional Conferences

Looking ahead, the success of the ISA 2026 Midyear Conference could pave the way for more frequent regional gatherings in Africa. This model supports sustainable academic exchange by reducing travel burdens for Global South scholars while maintaining high intellectual standards. Stakeholders in South African higher education are well-positioned to build on this momentum through follow-up workshops and collaborative initiatives.

Continued investment in digital platforms for hybrid participation will further broaden access, ensuring that the benefits extend to academics at smaller or rural institutions across the country.

Engaging with the Conference Community

Whether presenting original research, chairing sessions, or simply attending as an observer, participants play a vital role in shaping the discourse. The conference encourages inclusive dialogue that values multiple epistemologies, aligning with South Africa’s constitutional emphasis on diversity and redress in education.

Resources for proposal development and session planning remain accessible via the ISA website for those planning future involvement. This ongoing engagement strengthens the pipeline of ideas flowing into South African lecture halls and research centers.