The aims of I.E.D.E.S. (the Institute for the Study of Economic and Social Development), which is directed by Professor Francois Perroux and forms a part of the Collège de France, are both to teach and to make comparative studies of the economic, social, cultural, administrative, and other problems arising from the present situation and the potential development of the so- called under-developed and developing countries. It is the only really important university institution in France whose aims are so defined. During the past io years it has already undertaken and completed a considerable number of activities, which are summarised below under three main headings. These activities will be continued in our study of the different countries of Africa.