The Office of International Relations (OIR) of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has organised a public lecture exploring the strategic importance of global engagement with African higher education institutions.
The lecture focused on the mutual benefits of partnerships and the role of organizations like the Association of International Educators (NAFSA).
The lecture attracted faculty members and students and highlighted the importance of sustainable and equitable partnerships that respect Africa’s unique context while enabling institutions to thrive in a competitive global education ecosystem.
It was on the theme: “Advancing International Education Exchange-Partnership between African Higher Educational Institutions and NAFSA: Association of International Educators.”
The Executive Director and CEO of NAFSA, Dr. Fanta Aw, delivering the lecture, said research collaboration between African researchers and their counterparts abroad must be geared towards solving the myriad of challenges facing the continent.
According to her, the joint research was sine qua non for knowledge sharing that needs to be relevant to Africa.
Dr. Fanta Aw delivering the lecture
“It doesn’t have to be in the Western way. The solution is that it has to be indigenous to Africa. We have a lot of innovation in our continent,” she added.
Dr. Aw continued, “The ability to initiate collaborative research and integrate indigenous knowledge systems into global research efforts is a real opportunity for us.”
She underscored the need for tertiary education curriculum and administration to be matched to the specific knowledge and skills requirements for the socio-economic development of Africa.
Dr. Aw urged tertiary institutions to capitalize on technology through digital platforms to break geographical barriers and roll out collaborative online curricula.
She said NAFSA is an Association of International Educators, the world's largest and most comprehensive nonprofit association dedicated to international education and exchange, as well as advancing policies and practices that ensure a more interconnected, peaceful world today and for generations to come.
According to her, NAFSA membership provides one with a unique access to best-in-class programs, critical updates, and resources to professionalize one’s practice.
Some participants in the lecture
“Members gain unrivaled opportunities to partner with experienced international education leaders and peers. Become a member and discover how one year of membership can make a difference,” said Dr. Aw.
The Provost of the College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, Prof. Moses Jojo Eghan, chaired the lecture.
Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC