SOAS University of London

Founded in 1916 as the School of Oriental Studies, it was established to train British administrators and commercial agents for overseas postings, initially focusing on Asia. It expanded its remit to include Africa in 1938, becoming the School of Oriental and African Studies. Its iconic Brutalist building in Bloomsbury opened in 1973. While its origins were linked to colonial administration, SOAS has evolved into a world-leading centre for critical and post-colonial studies, promoting a deep understanding of the Global South. It was granted a Royal Charter in 1976.