Brilliant article written by Prof Emmanuel Ojo detailing the benefits of the DAAD ( Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst). DAAD has benefited him and the Wits University community with knowledge, cultural exchange, networking, research funding, and he also credits his promotion to become an associate professor to DAAD project. It has created a platform for research collaboration of the Global South and North. The article is a compelling read, interesting, and enlightening
Choosing an academic career at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa, has been a transformative decision for me. With a background in global consulting prior to my 2009 full-time appointment at the University, I have recognised the necessity for academics in the 21st century, especially in the global south, to extend their research engagement beyond local boundaries. It’s imperative to purposefully reach out to the Global North for capacity-building, shared experiences, and research collaborations. This is because we are facing complex societal challenges that no single discipline can address. A collaborative approach, involving researchers from both the Global South and North, is crucial for developing a global research management and innovation system capable of addressing these worldwide challenges.
My engagement with the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD; Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) has been particularly impactful. As the Deputy Head of School for Postgraduate Studies at the Wits School of Education, the largest school at my university, DAAD has provided me with invaluable opportunities for knowledge and cultural exchange. My 2022 DAAD Scholarship for Research Stays for University Academics and Scientists at the University of Tübingen, Germany, allowed me to work on a joint research project with Professor Dr. Taiga Brahm, Chair for Economic Education. This collaboration further solidified our partnership with the Tübingen School of Education (TüSE), a connection that has become increasingly vital in the post-pandemic era. This program has enabled our staff and students to participate in exchange programs, enhancing their understanding of global partnerships and the German research and teacher education landscape.
The DAAD scholarship facilitated my writing and publishing of articles, and successful applications for research funding. One such project, a three-year collaboration with the University of Rwanda, is progressing exceptionally well. It was during my DAAD-funded research stay that I received my National Research Foundation (NRF) rating, leading to my promotion to Associate Professor. This experience has expanded my collaboration scope with colleagues in Germany and across Europe. My role as the Chair for Transformation, Internationalisation & Partnerships at the Faculty of Humanities at the University of the Witwatersrand and my interactions with TüSE, particularly with Ms. Deborah Diekmann, have led to my appointment as an External Expert on an EU-funded project comprising five European universities. Additionally, I serve as a Council member representing my university in a European university alliance, co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme.
I acknowledge the challenges in maximising the opportunities provided by DAAD. However, viewing these challenges as “opportunities for creativity and innovation” has been transformative. The support from colleagues, such as resolving accommodation issues in Tübingen through timely communication with the Welcome Center, has been instrumental. Although my family couldn’t join me immediately due to school commitments, the smooth visa application process and the warm welcome from my host in Tübingen made the experience seamless.
In conclusion, I heartily commend DAAD for its continued support of researchers in the Global South. Their contributions have been pivotal in facilitating global academic mobility. I am deeply grateful to Dr. Anja Hallacker, former Director of the DAAD Information Centre in Southern Africa, for her role in enhancing DAAD’s impact in the region. My experience is a testament to DAAD’s significant work in Africa and the global south. I am proud to share my journey, along with cherished photographs, in this special edition of Wisaarkhu, celebrating the collaboration between DAAD and NITheCS.
Professor Emmanuel Ojo
Deputy Head of School Wits School of Education, University of the Witwatersrand
