Türkiye’s engagement with Africa has been positively shaped through diplomatic ties over the years, yielding fruitful outcomes in recent times. In a reflection of this growing relationship, Turkish students are now exploring Africa as a destination for education and cultural exchange. One such example is Beyza Betül Ekici, a postgraduate student at İnönü University, who shared her experiences of learning English in Uganda with Merhaba Africa, a Turkish platform dedicated to fostering relations between Africa and Türkiye.
Ekici, a history researcher and coordinator at the İnönü University African Studies Center, joined a three-month English program at the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) during the summer of 2024. Her story, detailed in Merhaba Africa and also highlighted by The Wall Africa Journal, offers a unique perspective on education and cultural immersion in Africa.
A Journey to Language and Culture
Beyza’s decision to study abroad stemmed from her participation in an Africa symposium organized by her university. Recognizing her need for language proficiency, she chose Uganda—a country where English is an official language—to combine her academic goals with field experience. Supported by a newly signed protocol between İnönü University and IUIU, Beyza and her peers became the first Turkish students to pursue such an endeavor in Uganda.
Upon arrival, the students were warmly received by IUIU, which arranged comfortable accommodations and personalized guidance throughout their stay. Their English classes, conducted by native speakers, focused on improving listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. In addition to academic lessons, the students actively engaged with the local community, participating in cultural events, social activities, and visits to iconic sites like Sipi Falls and the source of the Nile River.
The Broader Impact of Türkiye-Africa Relations
In her reflections, Ekici emphasized the importance of such educational exchanges in strengthening Türkiye-Africa relations. She noted that learning English in Uganda was not only cost-effective compared to Western countries but also allowed her to appreciate Africa’s cultural diversity and resilience. Beyza highlighted the opportunities for both Turkish and African students to benefit from these interactions, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.
This story, shared in Merhaba Africa and seen by The Wall Africa Journal, underscores the significance of expanding academic and cultural ties between Türkiye and African nations. As Turkish students increasingly choose African countries for their education, such initiatives can pave the way for stronger collaborations, benefiting both regions.
Encouraging Cross-Cultural Exchange
Ekici’s journey is a testament to the value of exploring new horizons and embracing different cultures. She encouraged other students to seize similar opportunities, advocating for the continuation of such programs to build bridges between Türkiye and Africa.
Through platforms like Merhaba Africa and collaborative efforts by universities, the potential for academic and cultural exchange between the two regions continues to grow, promising a future of enhanced partnership and understanding.