Who are we?
Established in 2015, we are a committee of students at the University of St Andrews (UK) dedicated to coordinating an annual event focused on Africa and the African diaspora. SAASUM plays an important role in the introduction of African affairs to highly capable and enthusiastic students who might otherwise have little connection to the continent. The benefits of this event lie in giving students the opportunity to instigate inquiry into Africa’s historical ties to the Western world, to change narratives around Africa’s political and economic affairs, and to inspire a genuine interest and desire to participate in Africa’s future.
what are we doing?
SAASUM 2024, the 10th Annual Summit, will be held on the 10th February 2024. It is a conference that focuses on a particular topic which reflects a vital theme that is affecting contemporary Africa. Previously this year we hosted His Excellency Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the current King of the Asante, as well as his administration in our first conference of the year. Past speakers at the summit have included Presidents, Nobel Laureates and Chairs of Fortune 500 companies. In 2022 we had the pleasure of welcoming Dr Luis Franceschi, the Assistant Secretary General of the Commonwealth, as our keynote speaker. In 2020, we hosted His Excellency, President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana. This year’s theme is “Empowering Africa: Unveiling the hidden drivers shaping tomorrow”, where we hope to discuss the underrepresented groups that are pushing Africa forwards, and how better to include them in the conversation.
why are we doing this?
Our aim is to collaborate with professors and students to develop awareness of global issues at a local level. We also aim to give the University community a rare and invaluable opportunity to directly engage and interact with some of the greatest leaders from the African continent on the critical issues and trends shaping its affairs today.
How you can help us?
You can help us achieve our mission of organizing another successful SAASUM for our St Andrews community by making a donation or spreading the word for us!
Where will the money go?
The minimum target will cover the costs of our speakers' transportation to and accommodation in St Andrews. Any additional donations will help towards:
- Printing the SAASUM Annual Review
- Developing our website
- Creating awareness of SAASUM in the lead up to the event
- Paying for venues to stage debates before the Summit
Please note: all payments will be processed at the time of donating. This means that you will be charged immediately upon making your donation. In the event that a project does not reach its specified target, rest assured that your donation will be directed towards future summits. This approach allows us to maximise the impact of your support and ensures that your contribution continues to make a meaningful difference. If you have any questions or concerns about this update, please do not hesitate to contact us at saintsfunder@st-andrews.ac.uk
help us succeed!
Please help us to bring this amazing opportunity to the St Andrews community by:
- Donating today - check out our rewards!
- Signing up as a follower or a helper
- Sharing the project through word of mouth, social media, email or any other way you think fit!
Your support and sponsorship make a difference! Thank you for helping us make this happen. (All donations will be held securely with the sole purpose of funding this and future summits.)
