​​The Centre for Military Studies (CEMIS) was established in 1990 under the aegis of Stellenbosch University and the SANDF as an integral part of the contractual agreement between Stellenbosch University and the SANDF as approved by the US Senate and Board since 1996. CEMIS is housed within the Faculty of Military Science at Saldanha.

CEMIS prides itself on its multi- and interdisciplinary research philosophy and focuses on high research and scientific standards, international academic citizenship and best-practice research processes with concrete deliverables while enhancing a national and international research profile.

CEMIS values includes intellectual independence, a research driven framework, integrity in research, high ethical standards and the widest possible dissemination and transfer of knowledge generated by its core team. CEMIS abides by the ethical norms and requirements for social scientific research and undertakes and produce knowledge from open and public sources.

The exchange of knowledge on security trends, guidance to researchers and students active in the security field and contributions on civil-military relations and aspects of continental conflict takes place through joint projects with international and national peers. Knowledge created is disseminated through conference-participation, publications, digital media and workshops. Projects that focus on third stream income and the creation of new knowledge deserve priority.