Conference Theme:
- Historical, theoretical and conceptual perspectives on innovation and development
- Political economy challenges for innovation in Africa
- Digital revolution, AI, and the African gig economy
- The creative sector, arts, and innovation
- African knowledge traditions and innovation systems
- Sustainability-oriented innovation (energy, water, agriculture, manufacturing, etc.)
- Innovation policies and socio-economic transformation (STISA 2034, Agenda 2063, SDGs)
- Financing innovation in key economic sectors
- Innovation for sustainable health and wellbeing
- Inclusive innovation, education and development (gender, youth, disability)
Guidelines on how to submit:
Paper Presentations
We invite the submission of original unpublished full papers for the conference. Submission of a full paper not exceeding 8,000 words (including notes, tables, appendices, list of references, etc.) can be submitted against any of the themes mentioned above. All papers should be submitted for assessment via the online submission system that will be open from 1st March 2026.
Important dates to note:
Submission of papers and registration (ConfTool) opened on 1 March, 2026
Note: Abstract submission is encouraged for paper development and alignment with the conference theme. However, this does not guarantee acceptance of the paper. Nevertheless, full paper submission is still permissible without first submitting an abstract. 17 April, 2026
Notification of Abstract acceptance 15 May, 2026
Deadline for submission of full papers 17 July, 2026
Deadline for submission of concept papers for thematic sessions 17 July, 2026
Notification of paper acceptance (Reviews & Feedback) 28 August, 2026
Conference registration deadline 30 September, 2026
Deadline for up-loading of final paper 02 October, 2026
Conference Dates 10-12 November, 2026