The Faculty of Humanities at the University of Limpopo invites academics, researchers, postgraduate students, practitioners, policymakers and community leaders to submit abstracts for presentation at the 2026 Annual Spring Lectures. This year’s event will provide an engaging platform for interdisciplinary dialogue, scholarly exchange and critical reflection on how the humanities can contribute to addressing contemporary societal challenges in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Held under the theme, “Africa’s New Solutions for Old Global Problems: Re-thinking Teaching and Learning, Research, and Community Engagement in an AI Era,” the Spring Lectures seek to showcase innovative, African-centred perspectives that respond to complex social, political, cultural, educational and technological issues. Participants are encouraged to submit original research, theoretical reflections, case studies and innovative practices that advance ethical, inclusive and sustainable approaches to teaching, learning, research and community engagement.
Abstract submissions are now open and will close on 31 July 2026, following the opening of submissions on 21 July 2026. Revised abstracts must be resubmitted by 14 August 2026. Abstracts should be between 250 and 300 words, include key elements such as the research problem, aim, methodology, data collection approach and sample, and list a maximum of five keywords. All submissions must be made through the Conference Management System (CMS), together with the final digital presentation, and must comply with the submission guidelines provided by the organisers.
The conference welcomes papers across a broad range of sub-themes, including artificial intelligence and 21st-century skills, education and pedagogy, ethics and leadership, gender-based violence and mental health, language and identity, media and communication, indigenous knowledge systems, Africanisation and decolonisation, migration, social development, Ubuntu, religion and spirituality, among others. The Spring Lectures will be held as a face-to-face conference, offering delegates an opportunity to engage with leading scholars and professionals while contributing to meaningful conversations that shape the future of the humanities in Africa and beyond.
Prospective presenters are encouraged to prepare and submit their abstracts early and take advantage of this opportunity to share their research, collaborate with peers and contribute to transformative scholarship.
For enquiries, contact ulspringlectures@ul.ac.za or call 015 268 3252. Further information, including abstract submission, is available via the Conference Management System.