Waterloo entrance

Strategic Priorities

Guided by our strategic priorities, PAIR advances Pan-African and Afro-diasporic research that is rigorous, community-accountable, and globally engaged.

Our work aligns with University of Waterloo’s centennial vision, Waterloo at 100, and its interconnected Global Futures framework, which addresses challenges cutting across society, health, environment, technology, and the economy. 

Priority 1: Research Excellence & Innovation

Establish PAIR as a leader in Pan-African and Afro-diasporic research.

PAIR advances interdisciplinary Pan-African and Afro-diasporic research that is rigorous, collaborative, and globally engaged. Our key focuses include: 

  • Interdisciplinary research clusters (e.g., Black health, migration, digital diasporas, decolonial futures) 

  • Tri-Council and international research funding 

  • Annual Pan-African Research Symposium 

  • Digital archives of African and diasporic primary sources 

Priority 2: Community & Global Engagement

Build reciprocal partnerships with African, Caribbean, and diasporic communities.

PAIR builds long‑term, reciprocal partnerships with African, Caribbean, and Afro‑diasporic communities locally and globally. Community engagement is foundational to our research. Our key focuses include: 

  • Community Advisory Boards in Waterloo and diaspora regions 

  • Partnerships with African universities and research organizations 

  • Community‑Based Participatory Research (CBPR) projects 

  • Youth and community scholar fellowships 

Priority 3: Inclusive Education & Curriculum Development

Integrate Pan-African perspectives across disciplines and programs.

PAIR integrates Pan-African perspectives across disciplines and levels of study at the University of Waterloo. Our key focuses include: 

  • Development of a Pan‑African Studies minor or certificate  

  • Faculty support for decolonizing curricula  

  • Public lectures, teach‑ins, and speaker series  

  • Cross‑listed and interdisciplinary courses 

Priority 4: Institutional Transformation & Capacity Building

Embed equity, diversity, and inclusion in PAIR’s operations and culture.

PAIR embeds equity, diversity, and inclusion in its structures, culture, and practices. Our key focuses include: 

  • Recruitment and retention of Black faculty, staff, and students 

  • Mentorship networks for Black scholars 

  • Equity-focused metrics, evaluation, and accountability 

Priority 5: Knowledge Mobilization & Impact

Translate research into policy, practice, and public discourse.

PAIR ensures research informs policy, practice, and public understanding. Our key focuses include: 

  • Open-access Pan-African research journal 

  • Policy briefs and practitioner resources 

  • Podcasts, documentaries, exhibitions, and digital storytelling 

  • Alignment with global equity priorities, including SDG 10: Reduce Inequalities