UEW Hosts 2023 German Studies Institutions Partnership Workshop
In a celebration of international collaboration and academic exchange, the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) played host to the prestigious German Studies Institutions Partnership (GIP) workshop from Monday, 20th to Friday, 24th November 2023, at the Student Centre, North Campus, UEW.
Sponsored by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the weeklong event brought together scholars, students, and experts from diverse backgrounds to explore the intersections of interculturality, multilingualism, crisis communication, and curriculum development.
The workshop, titled "Germanistische Institutspartnerschaft (GIP) Bayreuth-Benin-Togo-Ghana," witnessed a series of thought-provoking paper presentations and scholarly discussions.
The first day kicked off with undergraduate students from partner institutions, including UEW, the University of Lomé, and the University of Abomey-Calavi, delivering insightful presentations on topics ranging from "Terrorism in Africa" to "Language as Homeland in Exile" and "Multilingualism's Effects on Pronunciation."
The second day featured three expert panels delving into "Crises and Conflict Resolution Potentials of Artistic Works," "Emerging Research Trends in Africa vs. Germany," and "Literary Representation of Historical Figures from an Intercultural Perspective."
GIP PhD students took centre stage on the third day, presenting their research findings. Concurrently, participants engaged with the Accreditation Office of UEW, discussing the institution's efforts toward accrediting the Bachelor of Arts in German Curriculum.
Day four was dedicated to planning the 2024 edition of the workshop, ensuring the continuity of this valuable initiative. The fifth day took participants on a cultural excursion to Accra, where they explored the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, delving into Ghana's rich history and culture.
Addressing the gathering on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Victor Antwi, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of UEW, emphasised the pivotal role played by DAAD in fostering international collaboration in education and research. He expressed UEW's delight in hosting an event that epitomises cross-cultural exchange and the pursuit of knowledge without borders.
Dr. Harrison Golo, Vice-Dean of the Centre for International Programmes at UEW, outlined the university's strategy to become a leading institution for international partnerships, fostering cutting-edge research and teaching while enhancing exposure to other countries for both staff and students.
Prof. Rebecca Akpanglo-Nartey, Dean of the Faculty of Foreign Languages Education at UEW, highlighted the growth opportunities provided by the GIP partnership, including exchange programmes for academic staff and undergraduate students. She underscored the significant sponsorships for academic staff study stays in Germany, as well as research and teaching stays in West African partner countries.
The main coordinator of GIP, Prof. Dr. Schiewer, provided insight into the project's stages, emphasising its unique goal of using the German language to bridge the gap between Germany and the Francophone nations of Benin and Togo.
The workshop not only showcased the intellectual prowess of the participants but also underscored the importance of fostering international collaboration and cultural understanding in the pursuit of academic excellence. UEW's commitment to these ideals was evident throughout the week, leaving a lasting impact on the future of the German Studies Institutions Partnership.