Gambian Perspectives on Mutual Learning Dr Lamin Sidibeh University of The Gambia June 21st 2012

Introduction to The Gambia Location Population Climate Economy

Theoretical Rationale Contemporary discourse in the Western World New postcolonial theory emanating from The Gambia Growth-centred and People-centred visions of development (David Korten, 1995) Justice, sustainability and inclusiveness

Theory informing Gambian context Practices that challenge Western dominating discourses Regaining political independence from colonial rule However, colonial economic structures remain Therefore persistent problems of economic underdevelopment, instability and mental colonisation Relevance in North-South study visits

Practices that challenge Western dominating discourses The nature of the Tide – NEA relationship, establishing reciprocity, mutuality and equality (examples) Teachers perceptions and feelings towards ex-colonial masters have changed

The learning process Multidimensional – even beyond original objectives Week-long study visits from UK to The Gambia Personal and professional learning from formal and informal experiences Day conference with UK and Gambian teachers

Complex cultural processes Through cultural interaction images of the other are transformed The single story phenomenon Increases in confidence, personally and professionally Equality in knowledge sharing and understanding Relaxed atmosphere Learn and unlearn

Enhanced mutual understanding Pre-existing / deep-rooted prejudice and stereotypes, misrepresenting others Mutuality as understood in NEA-Tide partnership, give-give, receive-receive Exposes prejudices / stereotyping / discrimination Unlearning and learning

Conclusion Findings reveal important achievements in partnership People from different cultures can interact, collaborate and learn from each other Pre-requisite, positive mutual objectives Explicit acknowledgement of neo-colonialism Partnership as model for others to emulate Evidence of beginnings of ripple effect in The Gambia Potential and need for further research, impact and expansion