The African Studies Center at U.C.L.A. was established in June 1959, with the following objects: to bring together scholars from all of the social sciences, the humanities, education, law, and linguistics; to provide a framework for interdisciplinary collaboration and communication; to promote the organisation and development of undergraduate and graduate teaching programmes; and to further research on African subjects by both staff and students. It also serves to provide liaison with other institutes, centres, and associations in the same field, and works to improve the University's resources of Africana. In addition to its academic and professional functions, the Center furthers interest in Africa among the University community and the public at large.