Welcome to CCAN

The Center for Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience (CCAN) is a leading multidisciplinary hub committed to advancing knowledge of the human brain, behavior, and emotion within the African context. Through cutting-edge research, innovation, and evidence-based interventions, CCAN strives to bridge science and society, translating discoveries into meaningful impact. With a strong focus on low-resource and culturally diverse settings, the Center fosters solutions that enhance wellbeing, inclusion, and human potential across communities.

Our Vision

To be Africa’s premier center of excellence in cognitive and affective neuroscience, driving transformative research, innovation, and interventions that unlock human potential, promote mental wellbeing, and foster inclusive societies across the continent and beyond.

Our Mission

CCAN is committed to:

  • Advancing scientific knowledge on the brain mechanisms cognition, emotion, and behavior.
  • Promoting evidence-based interventions for neurodevelopmental and mental health challenges.
  • Integrating neuroscience with digital innovation to improve learning and wellbeing.
  • Building local and global research capacity through collaboration, training, and open science.

Focus Areas

Cognitive Development & Learning

Understanding how children and adults acquire, process, and apply knowledge across diverse educational and cultural contexts.

Emotion, Mental Health & healing

Investigating affective processes and their role in mental wellbeing, resilience, and socio-emotional development.

Neurodiversity & Inclusion

Studying conditions like ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities with an emphasis on inclusion, support, and empowerment.

Brain and Technology

Leveraging AI, VR/AR, neuroimaging, and digital tools for cognitive enhancement, assessment, and intervention.

Culture, Environment, and Neuroscience

Exploring how social, cultural, and ecological contexts shape brain development, behavior, and emotional functioning.

Clinical and Translational Neuroscience

Bridging neuroscience discoveries with clinical practice to develop evidence-based approaches for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

Capacity Building and Knowledge Translation

Strengthening African research, training, and policy frameworks while ensuring science informs education, health, and community practice.

Current Projects

  • Child Functioning Studies Comprehensive research on cognitive and emotional development in children across diverse African contexts.
  • NEPAS – NeuroWellness and Personalized Support for Neurodivergent Individuals Innovative approaches to supporting neurodivergent individuals through personalized interventions and wellness strategies.
  • Digital Transformation for Neurodiversity Inclusion in Africa and Asia (AAN-DI) Leveraging digital technologies to promote neurodiversity inclusion across African and Asian communities.