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

2. Introduction to The Gambia
Location
Population
Climate
Economy

3. 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

4. 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

6. 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

7. 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

9. 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

11. 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

12. 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