Charlie Cobbinah

Charlie Cobbinah is a doctoral researcher whose work explores the intersections of decolonisation, higher education, and sustainable development, with particular attention to how the identities of African universities shape their roles in advancing sustainable futures on the continent.

He is part of the Wits–Edinburgh Sustainable African Futures (WESAF) doctoral programme, a collaboration between the University of the Witwatersrand and the University of Edinburgh.

At the centre of his research lies a simple but demanding question: to what extent is decolonisation transforming African universities, and what are the implications for their role in shaping sustainable futures?

Beyond rhetorical commitments, this question requires examining how universities understand themselves and how these institutions of higher learning imagine their responsibilities in shaping the societies they serve.

His doctoral work seeks to develop an interdisciplinary framework that brings decolonial discourse into conversation with debates on sustainability in higher education, exploring how African universities might rethink their intellectual missions in response to both historical legacies and future challenges.

Through research, writing, and scholarly dialogue, Charlie contributes to emerging conversations about reimagining the role of African universities in the twenty-first century and their place in shaping more sustainable futures for the continent.

Research

Beyond Academia

In 2019, Charlie founded We Are Inspirors, a community organisation built on a simple conviction: that young people, given the right community, resources, and opportunities, will become the best version of themselves.

Through mentorship programmes, workshops, and outreach initiatives, We Are Inspirors promotes education, leadership, and self-development among young people in Ghana. Charlie coordinates a team of volunteers, builds partnerships with schools and local institutions, and facilitates events that foster personal growth and community impact.

Education

• 2023 –

  PhD in Sustainable African Futures

  University of Edinburgh · University of the Witwatersrand · WESAF Programme

• 2024

  MSc by Research in Sustainable African Futures

  University of Edinburgh

• 2023

  BSc in Administration

  University of Ghana, Accra