40 Years Supporting Excellence DAAD Regional Office for Africa
1 Foreword
Publisher DAAD DAAD Nairobi: 40 years supporting excellence Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst German Academic Exchange Service Kennedyallee 50, 53175 Bonn/Germany www.daad.de
Section Eastern and Southern Africa Dear readers,
Project coordination In September 1973 the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) opened Christoph Hansert, DAAD Nairobi Cay Etzold, Heide Albertin, DAAD a small adjunct office in Nairobi, where it began steering the new In-Country Nele van Leeuwen, Trio MedienService, Bonn scholarship programme for Sub-Saharan Africa funded by Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) to enhance human Content and editing capacity. By the early 1970s the BMZ had realised that sustainable development Christoph Hansert, Anja Bengelstorff, DAAD Nairobi Dr. Isabell Lisberg-Haag, Trio MedienService, Bonn would not be possible without educated African leaders and experts. This meant www.trio-medien.de engaging the universities. Offering scholarships at institutions at home instead Marta Schuman, En:Comms of sending students to Germany was a truly innovative move.
Authors By 1979 the small office had grown into the fully fledged DAAD Regional Achim Keding, Shaban Mayanja, Parsalelo Kantai, Nele Förch, Office for Africa, providing information about the DAAD’s full range of academic Hans Helfer, Hartmut Glimm, Richard Jacob, Cay Etzold, Gabriele von Fircks programmes. Having navigated its way through the politically difficult 1980s, the office saw the onset of democracy in the 1990s, with universities and DAAD Photo credits alumni playing decisive roles. The past decade was marked by the founding of Amunga Eshuchi, Cover photo, pp. 2, 7, 14, 23, 31, 39, 43, 48, 53,59, 75 new universities in many Eastern African countries. A region-wide quality assurance H.E. Mr. Ken N. Oside: p. 5 DAAD: pp. 3, 8, 21, 29, 37, 44, 45, 61, 63 system was developed in a collaborative effort by the DAAD, the Inter-University Allan Gichigi: p. 9 Council of East Africa (IUCEA) and the German Rectors’ Conference (HRK). Getty Images: p. 11 Since 1973 more than 5,753 individual scholarship holders have been funded and Mirco Lomoth: pp. 13, 56 through strengthening university cooperation the number of DAAD grants for Isabell Gathoni Kinyanjui: pp. 18, 27, 34, 42, 50, 70 private: pp. 20, 66, 68, 69, 73 Eastern Africa has totalled 10,565. Michael Meinhard: p. 47 What will the next 40 years bring for German-African cooperation in higher education Achim Keding: p. 64 and research? Looking at the dynamic development throughout the region, I am Layout and Typesetting optimistic. I envisage, for instance, the creation of African-German Centres of Stefanie Naumann, Excellence and joint universities. I see DAAD alumni around the world questioning old Designbüro Lübbeke Naumann Thoben, Cologne paradigms and developing new ideas for challenges not yet imaginable. One thing www.LNT-design.de is for sure: the DAAD will still be in Africa and will continue to make its motto of “Change by Exchange” a reality! Printed by ditges print+more gmbh, Siegburg
Print-run March 2014 – 3,000
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This DAAD publication was made possible with funding from the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development Dr. Margret Wintermantel
2 3 Mr. Ken N. Oside
Table of contents Preface
Introduction 6 40 years in Nairobi (1973 – 2013)
DAAD in Eastern Africa: Friendship for Change by Exchange 6
Wangari Maathai and the regimes of fear 10
1970s: From humble beginnings to a regional office 14
Paul Ndalut: Taking science to the people 18 Dear readers,
Regional Director: Hartmut Glimm 20 This year marks four decades of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) in East Africa. As a DAAD alumnus, I am happy to be associated with the 1980s: Rethinking partnership 22 40th anniversary celebrations. Since 1973, when the DAAD opened its offices Auma Obama: A powerful voice enabling young people 26 in Nairobi, more than 2,400 Kenyan students have benefitted from postgradu- Regional Director: Hans Helfer 28 ate study and research opportunities through scholarships and grants offered by the DAAD. By the same token, more than 276 German students and scholars 1990s: Winds of change 30 visited Kenya for study or research activities in 2012 alone. In addition, through Hamadi Iddi Boga: Nichts ist unmöglich/ Nothing is impossible! 34 the framework of the joint Kenyan German Postgraduate Training Programme Regional Director: Richard Jacob 36 launched three years ago, over 60 academic staff members from Kenyan universi- ties are pursuing their PhDs in various fields in Germany. This is made possible 2001-2010: Changing challenges 38 H. E. Mr. Ken N. Oside with funding from both the DAAD and the government of Kenya through Ambassador of the Joy Kiiru: Education opens opportunities 42 the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI). Republic of Kenya Regional Director: Cay Etzold 44 The hundreds of Kenyan postgraduate students and scholars who come to to the Federal Regional Director: Gabriele von Fircks 46 Germany every year constitute the foundation upon which we are now building Republic of Germany Since 2010: Joining hands 48 a deeper and more enduring set of relationships between Kenya and Germany. Kenya seeks and encourages such partnerships because we understand the Regional Director: Christoph Hansert 48 daunting but worthy challenge facing our country – the transformation of our Abraham Rugo Muriu: Attitude matters 50 economy. It is, therefore, in this spirit that I personally wish that scholarship DAAD funding programmes 52 opportunities be availed to undergraduate students as well. As we join hands in this pursuit of knowledge and economic progress through Alumni thoughts on the DAAD and Germany 54 academic exchange and cooperation, it is my strong hope that our efforts will translate into a long-lasting friendship and collaboration in which we ultimately Profile: Eastern Africa and its alumni 56 serve humanity together. Interview Christoph Hansert: »Huge potential for German universities« 58 As a beneficiary of a DAAD scholarship, I am truly grateful. Burundi: Willy Marcel Ndayitwayeko 60
Ethiopia: Tsige Gebre-Mariam 62
Rwanda: Christophe Bazivamo 64
Sudan: Muna Abdelaziz Mohamed 66
South Sudan: Aggrey Abate 68
Tanzania: Mayunga Nkunya 70 H. E. Mr. Ken N. Oside Uganda: Elizabeth Sentongo 72
40 years of DAAD funding for German Studies in Eastern Africa 74
4 5 40 Jahre DAAD in Ostafrika Kolumnentitel
Introduction »DAAD in Eastern Africa: Friendship for Change by Exchange« »
In March 2012 during a coffee break at our alumni con- ference on »Change«, a group of participants including the Chairman of the Kenya DAAD Alumni Association, Prof. Simon Onywere, and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of Kenyatta University, Prof. John Okumu, discussed the difference between doctoral studies in Germany and in other countries. They both agreed that German PhD supervisors build strong personal ties with their PhD candidates. This friendship is typically main- tained over decades by both sides, building the basis for a lifetime of joint projects in teaching and research. And the alumni give back. Each year our alumni organise two dozen alumni events from El Obeid in North Kordofan (Sudan) to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. Topics range from partnerships among universities with newly elected gov- ernors and grant proposal writing, to research initiatives on water issues in urban slums and constitutional reform. Our alumni are not only those who studied in Germany but also individuals who have gone to an African Centre of Excellence at home or abroad. Today they are univer- sity and government leaders, top-level researchers, and NGO managers who collaborate closely with German companies, development cooperation agencies, political foundations, as well as with high-profile universities and research institutions in both Germany and Africa.
6 7 Introduction DAAD in Eastern Africa
»DAAD in Eastern Africa: Friendship for Change by Exchange« « REGIONAL INTEGRATION The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the East African Community (EAC) are the two key regional integration schemes in In this brochure we want to pieces focus on how they perceived Eastern Africa. The IGAD, which focuses primarily present some of these Germany and how the DAAD scholarship on security, water and development, encompasses alumni. The selection, has impacted their lives and careers. eight countries in all: Sudan, South Sudan, Ethiopia, which was made in Kenya, Uganda, Eritrea, Somalia and Djibouti. The In the second part we present one cooperation with the EAC includes the East African countries of Burundi, alumna or alumnus from each of our national alumni associa- Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania; it has Eastern African neighbours. Among tions, intends to show- an elaborate system of specialised joint bodies ECONOMY others, readers will meet Christophe case typical cases, across various fields, including higher education. Eastern Africa’s largest national economy is Sudan, Bazivamo, a key member of the East bringing together a mix of The Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) whose gross domestic product in 2012 was esti- African Legislative Assembly and vice old and young, male and brings together more than 100 universities, the mated by the World Bank at USD 58.77 billion chairman of the ruling party in Rwanda, female, academics and National Commissions for Higher Education, the (including South Sudan). The same GDP rankings and Muna Mohammed, a medical doctor non-academics. The respective ministries and national and interna- put Ethiopia and Kenya in second and third place, and committed educator from Sudan. choice not to focus exclusively on tional stakeholders. The DAAD is not only a key at USD 43.13 billion and USD 37.23 billion respec- our most prominent alumni was The brochure also includes special partner of IUCEA but has also been accepted tively. While Sudan’s economy is driven largely by therefore a deliberate one. features, which include a look at the role from the beginning as a full and active member oil and oil products extraction, both the Kenyan and of German Studies in the region as well as institution. Ethiopian economies are driven primarily by non- In the first part we highlight four an interview with the current director of the mineral sectors, agriculture and service industries, decades of cooperation and friendship. Regional Office, who analyses the including transport and communication. Ethiopia’s We asked the former Regional Office dynamics of the past and explores the growth rate of 7.3 % led the region in 2012. Kenya’s directors to present personal memories of future. Finally, we pay tribute to our most 2012 growth rate of 4.2 % was expected to grow their years in Nairobi. These accounts are prominent alumna, the Nobel Prize winner significantly in 2013, up to 6.1 %. Burundi has the complemented by views from Kenyan and late Wangari Maathai. region’s smallest GDP, estimated by the World Bank alumni from the same decade, whose at USD 2.3 billion in 2012. Her life exemplifies how the combination of high-quality academics and a strong GEOGRAPHY international network of colleagues and friends has made the DAAD slogan The Eastern Africa region today consists of eight countries: Tanzania, Ugan- »Change by Exchange« a reality. da, Burundi, Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Sudan and South Sudan – all mem- As the first female professor in Eastern TOTAL FUNDING FIGURES bers of the African Union. At 1,861,484 km2 Sudan is not only the largest in Africa and a fighter for democracy and the region, but in all of Africa. Rwanda is the region’s smallest country, at sustainability, Wangari Maathai has been 26,338 km2. Eastern Sub-Saharan Africa boasts immense natural resources, a role model for DAAD scholars in the past
including rich reserves of both surface and ground water, fertile soil for agri- 40 years – and will certainly continue to be 25,192 5,753 10,565 cultural production, land for livestock production and impressive freshwater one in the decades to come. 13,915 bodies such as Lake Turkana and Lake Victoria (Africa’s largest) for fishing. Among the big draws for tourists are Africa’s two highest mountains − Kilimanjaro and Mt. Kenya – and some of the world’s most famous animals: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalo. Individual scholarship holders Individual scholarship holders Scholarships/grants Scholarships/grants Sub-Saharan Africa Eastern Africa Sub-Saharan Africa Eastern Africa
8 9 Introduction Wangari Maathai and the regimes of fear
Wangari Maathai and the regimes of fear »
Trees and treeplanting used to be a Kenyan a development strategy, linking state-led role rural women in Africa have played national obsession. On coming to power at collective action for the environment with almost invisibly in protecting the environ- the end of the 1970s, former President Kenya’s agricultural productivity. ment and managing resources. Daniel arap Moi revived the defunct ritual of It is even more difficult, if one is thinking the National Tree Planting Day, when every String of »firsts« begins with the in terms of trees, to talk about Prof. mwananchi − from school-going child to DAAD Maathai’s legacy. By the time she scored senior civil servant − would plant a tree. yet another of the many firsts of her life by Prof. Maathai’s rural background in central becoming the first African woman to win Kenya had given her first-hand knowledge In old Voice of Kenya TV footage, Moi can the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004, millions of of the travails of village folk in a world that be seen among ordinary folk, with trees had been planted under the auspices has changed dramatically over the past shirt-sleeves rolled up to his elbows, of her Green Belt Movement. Yet Kenya’s half-century and more. A US-trained gravely watering a tree seedling. In other total forest cover had continued to fall, biologist, Wangari Maathai was a ‘first’. footage, he is standing at the end of a with all the pernicious accompanying But her distinction would only come with human conveyor belt, boulders being effects, such as increased soil erosion and an extra mile of sweat and tears. Studying passed down the line from one pair of »Wangari Maathai increased desertification. Botany first in Mt. St. Scholastica in hands to another for His Excellency to worked under Professor Kansas and later at the University of plant at the bottom of a slope. Trees and Peter Walter during her Honouring the role of Africa’s Pittsburgh, she writes about how, after rocks. The rocks were the emergency time at the Univer- women finishing her Master’s degree in January measure to guard against one of the chief sity of Munich. Each 1966, she was appointed as a research enemies of agrarian Kenya, and by In granting Prof. Maathai the Nobel Prize, morning he would meet assistant to a professor of Zoology at the extension, the regime – momonyoko wa the academy in Oslo recognised her as the with the members of University College, Nairobi. Wangari Maathai, a woman of “firsts”: the first woman in udongo. Soil erosion. From the slopes of first laureate to bring to world attention the his lab individually, Eastern and Central Africa to earn a PhD, the first female Mount Kenya to the escarpments of the links between peace, sustainable develop- When she returned, however, to her inquiring about their professor at the University of Nairobi, the first African Rift Valley, billions of tonnes of fertile red ment and environmental conservation. This surprise she found her position already progress. Because of woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. topsoil, loosened by rain, was turning the was the first Nobel Peace Prize that hon- taken by another student. She attributes this close supervision, rivers brown, eating away at the nation’s oured an individual for her role in creating this to tribalism. As a woman, though, she Maathai found she agricultural productivity, denuding the global awareness around the increasingly was likely to have been by-passed and had made much more highlands and advancing the steady important nexus between the environment sidelined in favour of male students. progress in her studies southward creep of the Sahel. and future conflict. Professor Reinhold Hofmann from the there than in Nairobi.« University of Giessen in Germany offered Professor Kiama Gitahi, Professor Wangari Maathai may today be In that sense, Wangari Maathai had be- her a job as a research assistant in the Wangari Maathai Kenya’s best-known tree-ist but she was come a symbol of a generation of African »Wangari Maathai's distinction Microanatomy section of the newly Institute for Peace & certainly not the only one, nor was she by and other civil society activists that has established Department of Veterinary came with an extra mile of Enviromental Studies any stretch of the imagination the founder worked tirelessly at the grassroots to Anatomy in the School of Veterinary sweat and tears.« of a new trend. For a decade at least, that resist the juggernaut of runaway state- Medicine at University College of Nairobi. title belonged to the man who would led development. For the environmental become her nemesis – Daniel Toroitich movement in Kenya and Africa, for which A year later, she would travel to the Uni- arap Moi. For a time under Moi, tree she had played a central role, honouring versity of Giessen to pursue her doctorate planting became both a national ritual and her finally turned global attention to the on a DAAD scholarship. Studying both
10 11 Introduction Wangari Maathai and the regimes of fear
Wangari Maathai and the regimes of fear «
Taking a stand for sustainable »Wangari Maathai’s victory in the face-off development … A thorn in the with the dictatorship came because of her The depth of Prof. Maathai’s courage in government's side: refusal to back down against incredible odds.« opposing Moi’s Kenya African National Wangari Maathai's Union’s plans to construct this monument Green Belt Movement to itself was the country’s Tiananmen was founded in 1977. Square moment. At an estimated cost of By the time Maathai at the universities of Giessen, Munich Mobilising rural women mainly in her native USD 200 million, the Tower would have won the Nobel Peace and Nairobi, she became in 1971 the first Mt. Kenya region and Nairobi to begin plant- been the tallest and most expensive build- Prize in 2004, millions woman in Eastern and Central Africa to ing and selling tree seedlings, she had ing in Africa. of trees had receive her PhD in Veterinary Medicine, gained prominence in the National Council been planted under the Prof. Maathai then did the unthinkable. her thesis being on the development and of Women of Kenya (NCWK), the umbrella auspices of her Green She challenged the Moi dictatorship’s differentiation of gonads in bovines. Later, movement that incorporated scores of Belt Movement. right to hive off sections of Uhuru Park for in September 1978, the DAAD would again women’s organisation around the country. the construction of the Tower. The action be crucial in her academic career, granting In 1981, she would become chair of the raised a storm of sycophantic protest. She her a short research stay in Germany. NCWK, a position she held until 1987. became a mad woman in the eyes of Moi’s Teaching at the University of Nairobi, she It says something about the erosion of the loyalists, a bitter divorcee misleading good, rose rapidly through the ranks, first be- collective national psyche that the regime’s God-fearing people to rise up against the coming Senior Lecturer in 1974, then Chair tree-planting idealism began to fade around government at the behest of her “foreign of the Veterinary Department in 1976, the time the Moi government’s paranoia masters” in Washington and London who another first for her. In 1977, she scored gave birth to a new fear: the fear of were hell-bent on toppling the government yet another first when she was appointed dissidents. – an absurd accusation in the least, con- Assistant Professor. sidering the hundreds of millions of dollars In the 1980s, a dissident stirred in every the West continued to pour into the Moi bowl of soup, lurked in every shadow. The Gaining ground, gathering enemies government’s coffers. true test of regime-loyalty had shifted from Through her work with an NGO, the a shared fear of environmental apocalypse And winning … Environment Liaison Centre International, to a fear of leftist dissidents. And, for she attended the first Habitat Conference almost every defeat of the communists, Her victory in that face-off with the dic- in Montreal in 1976. She returned to found every detention and disappearance of real tatorship came because of her refusal to the Green Belt Movement, becoming part and imagined opponents to the regime, a back down against incredible odds. As the of the nascent NGO movement in Kenya monument would be planted. Notably, in regime threw the vilest of charges against that would very soon become a thorn in 1989, was the planned 60-storey Kenya her, it could not escape the fact that it had the establishment’s flesh. Times Media Complex. If completed, it lost the moral high ground to a woman, would rise like a fistful of hosannas to the who very much like Ibsen’s Dr. Stockmann, wise and able rule of His Excellency, into had recognised that the strongest (wo)man the sky above Nairobi’s Uhuru Park where is she who stands alone. trees had once stood. By Parselelo Kantai
12 13 1970s » 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
From humble beginnings to a regional office
Coordinators/Regional Directors 1973 – 1975: Dr. Wolfgang Armbruster 1975 – 1979: Dr. Hans-Joachim Niesel 1979 – 1985: Hartmut Glimm
When the DAAD country office in Nairobi was established in the second half of 1973, Kenya was preparing to celebrate ten years of independence – a period that saw many Kenyans disillusioned. Generally speaking, Kenya was better off than many other post-independent African states, especially with regard to political stability, security and economic growth. Progress had been made in providing access to primary, secondary and higher education, and literacy rates had increased. However, this came at the price of an authoritarian de facto one-party rule. The general public felt that certain elites had profited from independence, that economic growth and its benefits were unevenly distributed, and that little progress had been made in poverty reduction. This even led to violent strikes, the expulsion of students from Nairobi University (the only university in the country at that time) and the subsequent closure of the university. In this context, J.M. Kariuki, a Kenya African National Union (KANU) politician and a close aide to President Kenyatta, coined the famous phrase: »Kenya has become a nation of 10 millionaires and 10 million beggars«.
14 15 1970s From humble beginnings to a regional office
1970s « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
A new development paradigm
The political change that came with Presi- dent Kenyatta’s death generated hope and »The BMZ provided initial funding to enhance enthusiasm for more widespread change. Aid policies from the DAAD programmes within Africa and strengthen But when Daniel arap Moi succeeded 1950s and 60s were Kenyatta in 1978, these hopes were largely In-Country and In-Region programmes, with generally seen as un- disappointed. Moi did push hard, however, Education plays a leading role successful, since they the goal of stopping the brain drain from African on the education sector and generously had not led to growth As part of this policy shift, the West countries and universities. « supported higher education through annual and development across German Federal Ministry for Economic budget allocations. all parts of society. In Development and Cooperation (BMZ) the 1970s, East and In 1973, the two German states – West directed its funding according to the West Germany took the Germany and East Germany – had just motto “help people help themselves”. lead in shifting foreign ratified the so-called Grundlagenvertrag, or Education was considered the key to aid priorities and basic treaty, which assured each country’s success. The BMZ provided initial fund- Boom in In-Country scholarships All in all, the number of In-Country scholar- emphasising education sovereignty. Both countries became new ing to enhance DAAD programmes ships increased significantly through the as a key to economic members of the United Nations (UN) and, within Africa and strengthen In-Country During the first years, the DAAD focused 1970s and proved to be a huge success. development. in the 1970s, East and West Germany took and In-Region programmes, with the goal mainly on liaising with stakeholders and This, of course, also increased the work- the lead in shifting foreign aid priorities of stopping the brain drain from African analysing the systems of higher education load considerably. As a result, the Nairobi and emphasising education as a key to countries and universities. This included in the different countries and, starting in office was upgraded to the “DAAD Re- economic development. Aid policies from funding German lecturers at African 1975, the DAAD national office concen- gional Office for Africa” in 1979. More staff the 1950s and 60s, which had focused on universities as a way of supporting post- trated on the funding of postgraduate was requested and granted the following development through growth, i.e. promot- graduate programmes and capacity- studies. More and more, the DAAD coordi- year, but according to the regional director, ing large-scale industries and modernisa- building of future lecturers. nator was invited to participate in regional Nairobi remained understaffed. tion, were generally seen as unsuccess- consultations and conferences on higher ful, since they had not led to growth and education development and management, development across all parts of society. which created a valuable network for The president of the World Bank at the future work. time, Robert McNamara, delivered a land- mark speech in September 1973 in Nairobi When the political situation in Uganda (coinciding with the establishment of the forced Ugandan students to flee to Kenya, DAAD office) summarising these findings. the DAAD started a special refugee schol- As a result, the focus of aid efforts in the arship programme, although the funds 1970s was shifted to basic human needs, were insufficient to support the desired including food security, housing availability, number of students. In addition, the DAAD health care, and also education and political helped establish a partnership between participation. the universities of Munich and Nairobi in 1978 to train ophthalmologists in Nairobi.
16 17 1970s From humble beginnings to a regional office | Paul Ndalut
Paul Ndalut « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
actually obeyed by motorists, were for me a symbol of this. On the other hand, I was surprised by how still-functional items are thrown away so readily. During my stay in »I believe that Germans in the east and west are far Merseburg in 2002, I witnessed intact lab equipment (in this case glassware) being more similar than they want to admit at times.« thrown away because new equipment was being delivered. I scrounged the heaps that were meant to be discarded and was able to send a lot of useful equipment to Kenya. of my community. We have established a vegetable-planting project so that people Fresh perspective on Germany can earn their living, and at the same time In comparison to Kenya, people in Germa- become independent from other food ny were much more independent-minded. suppliers. Since I still lecture as a retired Even though I missed some Kenyan food, professor at Moi University, I was also able PROF. DR. PAUL NDALUT I grew especially fond of Dauerwurst and to use my contacts to sell vegetables to Brötchen and wished there was a better the university and become self-employed. Although officially retired since 2011, Prof. Ndalut still lectures at Moi University. Married to a German, Prof. supply of these here in Kenya. Knowing I also take part in DAAD activities every Ndalut was in Germany from the late 1970s to the early Germany as both a divided and unified na- year. They are a welcomed occasion to 1980s, and again in 2002. Taking science to the tion, I feel that there are still a lot of preju- meet like-minded people and an opportu- dices about the former East Germany in nity for young scientists to present them- people the west. To my mind these prejudices are selves. My wish is that the Kenya DAAD in no way substantiated, and I believe that Scholars Association (KDSA) develops into There are many reasons why I chose the Germans in the east and west are far more a powerful lobby group within Kenya to DAAD for supporting my studies. Because similar than they want to admit at times. promote the idea of science and how it can my wife is German, I had been familiar actually change society. with Germany since the 1970s. The DAAD scholarship for pursuing my PhD in Essen Learning to put knowledge into made it possible for me to both live in practice Help transfer knowledge to my wife’s home country and pursue my where it’s needed most! In general, studying in Germany changed career. my way of looking at science. I no longer Regarding the DAAD’s work, I can only say Kenya. Second, I hope that the DAAD can During my time as a DAAD scholar, I dis- regarded science only as a set of theories, a big “thank you” and “keep up the good help us to transfer academic knowledge covered many differences and similarities but as a hands-on approach to search for work”, including the alumni programmes. to the people out there in need of it. The between life in Germany and life in Kenya. solutions for practical problems. This has In terms of a wish list for the future, I hope greatest challenge is that many policies – What struck me most about Germany was had a huge influence on me. Today, the that the DAAD supports the idea of a relating to food security and agriculture, for its well-organised, orderly and punctual project closest to my heart is trying to ap- Centre of Excellence so that we can put example – never really reach the villages. society. Working traffic lights, which are ply my scientific knowledge for the benefit scientific knowledge into practice here in
18 19 1970s From humble beginnings to a regional office | Hartmut Glimm
Regional Director: Hartmut Glimm « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
I was not the first but the third “founding- my immediate neighbours, i.e. the Univer- Expanding opportunities father” of what in 1979 was named the sity of Nairobi, the University of Dar es Sa- There were plenty of opportunities to get DAAD Regional Office for Africa. My pred- laam and Makerere University in Kampala. involved and we took advantage of many of ecessors, Wolfgang Armbruster and Hans- Thanks to the relationships forged by my them. One example was a newly estab- Joachim Niesel, had functioned mainly as predecessors, I was received as a friend. lished university network called the As- coordinators of our In-Country scholarship I travelled extensively during my tenure, sociation of Faculties of Agriculture in Africa programme funded by the Federal Ministry paying visits to universities and partners (AFAA). We applied our new In-Region of Economic Cooperation. Gradually that in 20 countries in all, with the goal of scholarship scheme, allowing graduate office grew into a DAAD branch office, of exploring further areas of cooperation. students to study at other African universi- which there are 14 around the world today. It was stressful but there was much to ties. The same programme enriched our HARTMUT GLIMM, While its responsibilities grew, the office’s be done. There were meetings with vice cooperation with the African Association of REGIONAL DIRECTOR core focus remained the In-Country schol- chancellors, registrars, deans and senior Universities (AAU), a programme that was FROM 1979 TO 1985 arship programme, which was later ex- staff to inform them of the various DAAD later extended to include short-term ex- panded, opening up inner-African exchange programmes and to identify programmes changes of African teaching staff known as and fostering interdisciplinary networking which would best address current needs. “prof borrowing”. We also included the Afri- in Sub-Saharan Africa. It was equally important to clarify what the can Network of Scientific and Technological facing the same challenge of recruiting DAAD could not offer! Institutions (ANSTI) in our In-Country and lecturers and professors. We responded by Solidifying the base, expanding In-Region programme, and entered into I also met with DAAD scholars and other offering additional scholarships for junior the regional network cooperation with the International Centre German teaching staff to receive their academics. The new institutions were also of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE), With a good deal of pioneer work ahead progress reports and listen to their sug- in great need of laboratory equipment and offering scholarships for its PhD students of me, I arrived in Nairobi in 1979 to an gestions for improving and intensifying our vehicles, but “bricks and mortar” remained from various African countries. office consisting of a small room in a work with their host universities. The trips outside our range of possibilities. I will never private house with a desk, a typewriter, a also served to clarify requirements and The Eastern and Southern African Universi- forget when a Nairobi Chemistry professor cupboard with two dozen files in it, and a administrative procedures related to the ties Research Project (ESAURP) was also came to me with such a request. It took me chair with no one in it, since the part-time DAAD’s various programmes, including initiated during this time. By then, the con- an hour to explain to him that regrettably, Regional Director secretary had just quit. I got busy visiting scholarships for PhD studies in Germany, cept of in-country studies was regarded as the DAAD was not in a position to equip his Glimm in 1980 short-term study and research visits for a more advantageous format than studies labs. On parting, he tapped me on the shoul- African applicants. overseas. In response, the DAAD devised der, and said, “But next time, brother!” That an entirely new scheme comprising so- moment I wished – as I still do – for many Such local encounters culminated in two called “sandwich scholarships” – a format next and better times to come. regional conferences (Nairobi, 1980 and that enabled African doctoral students to 1984) with German staff sponsored by combine study in Africa with periods of GTZ, DAAD and CIM, together with study in Germany. »Thanks to the relationships their immediate African counterparts, from all over Africa. Here, fundamental issues forged by my predecessors, DAAD in great demand of German-African cooperation in higher I was received as a friend.« education were discussed with an aim to Several new universities also emerged improve our partnership. across the African continent, all of them
20 21 Kolumnentitel
1980s » 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Rethinking partnership
Regional Directors 1979 - 1985: Hartmut Glimm 1985 - 1994: Hans M. Helfer
All hopes for a more open society were quashed in 1982 when Kenya became a de jure one-party state through a decision in parliament, which basically outlawed all official opposition. Moi’s slogan of peace, love and unity was to most Kenyans all but a hollow phrase. His regime slipped into a dictatorship in the mid-eighties symbolised by the infamous Nyayo House.
At the end of the 1980s, the winds of change swept through Eastern Europe, starting with Perestroika and Glasnost in the Soviet Union and culminating with the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989. The end of the bipolar world also had repercussions for Africa, as Western pressure on President Moi began to mount. The crumbling of the Apartheid regime in South Africa could also be attributed to the new world order.
22 23 1980s Rethinking partnership
1980s « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Tight budgets lead to new Stemming the brain drain approaches Thanks to better allocation of funds, the In-Country programme recovered quickly For the DAAD office in Nairobi, the new Innovative ways to build educa- from these challenges and continued to decade did not get off to a good start. »Moi’s slogan of tional capacity grow stronger. One highlight came in 1987, Budget constraints forced a review of the peace, love and unity when the programme in Kenya funded a Cooperation between ANSTI, ICIPE, In-Country programmes in a lot of total of 192 scholars. This made a major AFAA and DAAD was stepped up so that countries, which led to a drastic reduction was to most Kenyans contribution to capacity building for univer- postgraduates could be affiliated with of scholarships. This was all the more all but a hollow sity staff, which was more important than institutions other than universities and to unfortunate, as the contribution of this phrase.« ever, since three additional universities enhance networking and cooperation, not programme to local student support had were established in Kenya in the 1980s: only between Africa and Germany, but been such a huge success in the previous Moi University in Eldoret (1984), Kenyatta also within Africa. years. Also, the possibility of German University in Nairobi (1985), and Egerton lecturers coming to African universities A wide range of other DAAD instruments University in Njoro (1987). This was an In 1987, the In-Country was quite limited at the beginning of the The conclusion, in the early 1980s, was was introduced during the 1980s to pro- especially important milestone, since the programme in Kenya 1980s. The tight budget situation in 1982 that foreign support for African universi- mote sustainable staff and capacity build- growing number of primary and second- funded at total of 192 even put the existence of the regional ties can only have limited impact on their ing at African universities. For departments ary school graduates meant that Kenya scholars. office at risk, but fortunately, last-minute ability to affect development. Not only did housing DAAD scholars, this included and other African countries had become allocation of funds secured its continuation. demand far exceed allocated funds, but it financial support for material expenses, increasingly unable to offer enough tertiary When the attempted coup forced the seemed that the impetus for self-devel- research funds for PhD students at their education facilities. University of Nairobi to close for 14 months opment was being hindered by excessive home universities, and the so-called “sand- in 1982/1983, this was yet another funding. The new policy was that solu- wich” programme, which enabled PhD stu- The effort made to offer education to all disruption for the DAAD and its work. tions for basic problems should be man- dents to go to Germany during the course (Kenya, for example, allocated about 30 % aged locally as much as possible. of their studies to carry out specialised DAAD’s work in Nairobi was also of its budget to education in the mid-1980s) research. influenced by a new approach to the The DAAD responded to the shift – from had created the new challenge of meeting relationship between donor and developing giving aid to building partnerships – by the growing demand for university educa- A watershed in higher education in Kenya The early 1980’s countries. The so-called “Brandt Report”, facilitating links between German and tion. Establishing new universities was one was the abandonment of free university saw a shift from a which summarised the findings of an African universities and trying to convince important element to stop the brain drain education in favour of the cost-sharing biased North-South independent commission at the beginning the German universities to view these from Kenya. In 1986, 10,000 students were principle introduced in 1989, which sought relationship to an equal of 1980, made it clear that the goals set by relationships as less of a burden and more enrolled in the three Kenyan universities to limit expenses for the ever-growing partnership. The basic McNamara’s speech in 1973 had not been of a resource with academic and research while another 10,000 Kenyans were study- numbers of students. Apart from having to idea was to help devel- achieved on a broad scale and that only a potential. One element that helped ing abroad. Half of the candidates could not pay tuition fees, students also had to pay oping countries to help new economic world order could achieve strengthen these links was the provision be offered a place at university. The intro- for their own boarding and lodging. A themselves. these goals. This also meant a shift from a of six scholarships for post-graduate study duction of the new 8-4-4 education system student loan scheme was introduced to biased North-South relationship to an equal in Germany. At the beginning, however, put further strain on university intake, as the increase the chance that needy students partnership. The basic idea was to help it was difficult to find six suitable candi- total study period was extended from three could continue with their studies. developing countries to help themselves. dates each year. to four years.
24 25 1980s Rethinking partnership | Auma Obama
Auma Obama « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
A powerful voice The DAAD scholarship gave me the finan- Of contrasts and personal enabling young people cial independence I needed to achieve my development goals. It opened doors for me and made it The 9th of November 1989 showed me Strangers were embracing on the streets in possible for me to move forward with my that the Germans could actually be quite Berlin and celebrating together: this was not life and career. Gender did not stand in the spontaneously open and approachable. In the World Cup in 2006, but November 9, way of this pursuit. I had the mental and the days after the fall of the wall the streets 1989 – the fall of the Berlin Wall. I was in the emotional space to study and carve my of Berlin were packed with celebrating, city on that day, witnessing history being destiny as an independent woman. rejoicing Germans sharing the moment with made, and was fascinated by how open strangers. This contrasted starkly with the Germans could be. Experiencing the fall of Das Brot and lego-language xenophobic riots that were experienced in the wall first-hand was a somewhat surreal Although I also experienced quite a few Hoyerswerda in 1991. Although I lived far experience, and the euphoria and warmth cultural shocks, I was nonetheless able at from there and never had any problems that I was witnessing was far removed from some level to find my place in Germany. I where I lived, I asked myself if I was really the stereotype of the reserved, cool German. liked the German directness, which is not safe and welcome in Germany. unlike my own. I also appreciated the DAAD: Opening doors in Germany During my time in Germany, I had a lot of highly developed infrastructure and and beyond different experiences, some good, some efficient administration. I especially came not so good. But all in all the time I spent I had come to Germany in 1980 as a DAAD to enjoy Brot – German bread, with its in Germany was an important part of my scholar to study German and Sociology in huge range of varieties and textures. But life and critical for my personal develop- Heidelberg. I stayed in Germany for a total most of all I particularly liked the intellec- ment. During this period I also met a lot of of 16 years, living and studying in Heidel- tual challenge of deepening my knowledge »The DAAD scholarship gave great people, some of whom became berg, where I got my Master’s degree, in of the German language. The “Lego” close friends and with who I am still in me the financial independence Berlin, where I studied film, and in Bayreuth, principle of word building in German, that touch today. I needed to achieve my goals. where I was granted my second DAAD allows you to create a new word, a new scholarship and received my PhD from the noun, just by attaching words together, It opened doors for me and Enabling positive change University of Bayreuth. resulting in a word with an indefinite made it possible for me to move number of letters, fascinated me. Launching my own foundation Sauti Kuu in 2011 has given me the opportunity to work forward with my life and career.« The social life in Germany was definitely for disadvantaged children and young DR. AUMA OBAMA different from that in Kenya. Away from people both here in Kenya and abroad. the town and city centres, one saw very Auma Obama is Founding Director of the Sauti Kuu The goal, ultimately, is to support them in few people out and about on the streets, Foundation. After returning to Kenya from Europe, she realising their potential and thus help I would like to congratulate the DAAD on worked for CARE International running the Sport for different to Kenya where most streets are themselves to achieve positive change in its 40th anniversary. As a beneficiary of Social Change Initiative before launching her own full of people at all times. In Germany foundation in 2011. In 2010 she successfully published their lives. the programme I can say, without a doubt, people seemed to live indoors, keeping to her memoirs in German, with the English translation that the work being done is definitely following in 2012. themselves. This could make life rather worthwhile. So, happy birthday DAAD! lonely and was quite disturbing until I Keep up the good work. made friends and understood the Germans a bit better.
26 27 1980s Rethinking partnership | Hans M. Helfer
Regional Director: Hans M. Helfer « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
I started my time as DAAD Regional Direc- Making history tor in Nairobi in July 1985. The previous In Kenya, President Moi’s personal mission director, Hartmut Glimm, had upgraded the was the development of the university office from a Programme Management system and the demand for professors Office into a DAAD Regional Office. By Mozambique’s minister of education, who was especially high. We addressed this the time I took over the office, Germany’s had done his PhD work in Dresden, but demand through our In-Country funding Foreign Office had become the institutional the East German lecturers and teachers programmes, which focused on Kenya. In sponsor for the DAAD’s work in Africa, had strict orders not to engage in any kind addition, we got increasingly involved in which meant that we were responsible for of conversation with me. The situation in developing PhD programmes and support- more than 40 countries throughout Sub- Ethiopia was similar. Only years after Ger- ing African scientific networks including HANS M. HELFER, Saharan Africa. One exception was that the man reunification could we get into contact newcomers such as the Natural Product REGIONAL DIRECTOR DAAD Bonn headquarters was directly re- with former GDR scholars. Research Network for Eastern and Central FROM 1985 TO 1994 sponsible for relations with the Republic of Africa (NAPRECA). We were also keen to South Africa. The main reason for this was strengthen the connection to Germany by that you could not travel to other countries Doors opened wide to the DAAD integrating short study visits to German in Africa if your passport revealed a South A cultural agreement Many universities were built in Africa dur- university institutes into the programmes. African residence permit. Because the role signed between Kenya ing this period, especially in Nigeria where and responsibilities of the Regional Office During this time, a cultural agreement and Germany was the eleven new universities were established. for Africa had grown so quickly, this meant, signed between Kenya and Germany was first of its kind between The contact to neighboring countries like for me, often exhausting amounts of travel the first of its kind between an African an African country and Tanzania, Uganda and Ethiopia was of across the region. country and Germany. Since the regional Germany. course very close. At some point, however, office already had computers, we were it was difficult to travel from Kenya to Tan- able to help the embassy by drafting the The East and West German divide zania, because the border was closed. The agreement and providing valuable and well- only option was to take a detour through the Some countries in the region did not have received advice. Seychelles. Nevertheless, I always received universities that could be visited. Other a warm and cordial welcome, since there countries were cooperating with East Ger- »I always received a warm and was a big desire to establish contact with many (GDR) and were of course worried German universities and to benefit from cordial welcome, since there about people from West Germany med- DAAD’s funding programmes. dling in their affairs. As an example, I can was a big desire to establish remember that the GDR had lecturers and The visiting DAAD professors and lecturers contact with German universities teachers stationed in Mozambique. It was stationed at the universities in these vari- no problem for me to speak in German to ous countries served as important travel and to benefit from DAAD’s guides for me and opened a lot of doors. funding programmes.« It was satisfying to see how capacity build- ing with regard to higher-education lecturers (the main aim of DAAD) progressed during these years.
28 29 40 Jahre DAAD in Ostafrika Kolumnentitel
1990s » 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Winds of change
Regional Directors 1985 − 1994: Hans M. Helfer 1994 – 2001: Richard Jacob
The dramatic political events in Europe − the end of the East German state (GDR) in 1990 and the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 − were mirrored by political reforms in Kenya. The end of the Cold War had direct implications for the relationship between the international donor community and Kenya. Despite Moi’s authoritarian regime, Kenya had enjoyed the support of the West since independence. With the advent of the 1990s, however, came a shift in discourse, which placed democracy, good governance and human rights on the agenda as touchstones for recipient countries.
The Kenyan government was under increasing pressure to allow multiparty elections, which materialised at the end of 1992. With a divided opposition, President Moi remained in office, securing the required simple majority of votes. This happened again in 1997. The struggle for a democratic Kenya, led by civil society leaders like Wangari Maathai and Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, thus continued.
30 31 1990s Winds of change
1990s « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
For Kenyan universities, the 1990s was a South African universities: Open to Kenyan crisis: Burgeoning student time of unrest, rife with strikes and subse- Africa numbers and fiscal troubles quent closures. This was due only in part to »For Kenyan universities, the 1990s With the election of the ANC in 1994 in For Kenya, the end of the Cold War also the winds of change blowing through Kenya South Africa, and the country’s subsequent meant the loss of unconditional support and was a time of unrest, rife with at the time. Problems with loan disburse- abolition of apartheid, South Africa’s nearly thus a massive reduction in aid. From 1990 ments and complaints about bad food quality strikes and subsequent closures.« 30 universities were suddenly acceptable to the mid-1990s, official development as- on campuses, for example, also added to the destinations for all other African nations. sistance was cut by nearly two-thirds. This crisis in academia. Kenyan and Ethiopian In-Region scholarship put considerable strain not only on publicly applicants as well as African universities had funded organisations but on educational Of German reunification and Offering solutions: In-Country schol- suggested that DAAD allow applications for institutions and especially universities. rising refugee numbers arships and sandwich scholarships South African universities as early as 1995. As a former teacher, President Moi had For the DAAD, German reunification meant One of the biggest challenges at the universi- There were many advantages to South made higher education one of his top incorporating East German universities and ties remained staff shortages. The DAAD’s African universities. For one, they worked priorities. In answer to Kenya’s burgeoning scholarships into its own structures. Right In-Country scholarship programme has in a predominantly Anglophone context. student population (40,000 in the early away, the DAAD took over responsibility played an important role in addressing these Their organisational and terminological 1990s), Moi had supported the founding for some 8,000 foreign scholars studying problems. But even though 75% of DAAD structure was also similar to that of East- of new universities and colleges. Forty The DAAD’s In-Country in the former GDR and some 1,600 East scholars have actually found their way into ern African universities, and most South percent of the nation’s budget had been scholarship programme German students studying abroad. These lecturer positions at Kenyan universities, staff African universities had standards equiva- allocated to education, half of which went helped address the “new” programmes were managed prima- shortages still vexed the country’s higher lent to universities in industrially advanced to tertiary education. These allocations problem of staff rily from its new office in Berlin. Despite education system. countries. In response, the DAAD agreed could not be upheld. shortages at Kenyan Berlin becoming the “new” capital of a on accepting South African universities Great progress was made in connecting universities, with 75% united Germany in 1992, the DAAD’s of- The new strategy for boosting both uni- into its programme and opening them up German and Kenyan universities through so- of DAAD scholars fice in Bonn was kept as the organisation’s versity budgets and the lecturer salaries to postgraduates and graduates from other called sandwich scholarships. The language finding their way into headquarters. was the introduction of so-called parallel African countries. barrier as well as course accreditation issues lecturer positions. programmes. These degree programmes are Events closer to Nairobi also had an impact made this a far more challenging undertaking With South Africa as a democracy, the conducted over and above 'regular' courses on the work of the DAAD office: The geno- than with institutions from English-speaking position of the DAAD Nairobi office was and charge students full fees; students on cide in Rwanda in 1994, Kabila's seizure countries with shared language and study reconsidered; plans called for moving the regular courses are largely state-funded. of power in Congo-Kinshasa in 1997, the systems. Fortunately, isolated incidents of African regional office to South Africa. The Over the years students enrolled in the Ethiopian-Eritrean war of 1999/2000 as xenophobia did not impact the attractiveness plan did not materialise, however. Com- parallel programmes outnumbered regular well as the disastrous conditions in Somalia of Germany for African students. pared to the rest of Africa, South African course students. While critics maintained and South Sudan. These events led to an universities were in league of their own. A that the parallel programmes were com- Another priority for the DAAD Nairobi of- increased influx of refugees to Kenya, among South African-based office responsible for mercialising education and watering down fice was to keep in touch with and support them qualified graduates and postgradu- the whole of Africa raised fears of creating the quality of education due to the high DAAD and former East German alumni from ates. These upheavals led to the enhanced a bias in favour of South Africa and to the number of students, they quickly became the various regions. This work was facilitated support of refugee post-graduates from So- disadvantage of all other African countries. a very important source of income for by the Nairobi Circular, a newsletter for malia, Sudan, Ethiopia, Rwanda and Burundi Kenya’s universities. DAAD alumni in Kenya and Eastern Africa. through the In-Country and In-Region scholarship programmes.
32 33 1990s Winds of change | Hamadi Iddi Boga
Hamadi Iddi Boga « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Many doors and opportunities were opened A matter of course: Giving back The DAAD regional office in Nairobi was for me as a DAAD scholar. Despite having my benefactor when I was a young man On the important topic of giving back, I other opportunities, I never regretted seeking opportunities. It has now become helped revive and strengthen the Kenya deciding to get my PhD in Microbiology a partner in my personal and academic DAAD Scholar Association, transforming it at the University of Konstanz in Germany. growth. My life would have been quite into the most vibrant alumni association in My academic thinking and my personal life different without the support of the DAAD. the Eastern African region. As a university were, and still are, greatly shaped by this I think I will not be exaggerating in saying professor, I have supervised many MSc and experience. that the DAAD is the smartest scholarship- PhD students and successfully started the awarding organisation in the world. Keep MSc Microbiology programme in the Botany up the good work! New sides to old ideas Department at JKUAT. I have also provided leadership in the field of Microbiology I learned to understand and appreciate other through the Microbiology Network, have cultures while being comfortable in my spearheaded the development of the Kenya own. Germans and Kenyans share much in Microbial Culture Collection, and was common – they enjoy football, are appointed a board member of the World preoccupied with politics and work hard. Federation of Culture Collection. HAMADI IDDI BOGA »Many doors and opportunities were opened for me as a DAAD Having grown up watching the show Hamadi Iddi Boga, who is currently the Principal of Taita scholar.« “Football Made in Germany” made the Taveta University College, and the Chairman of the experience even more real as I found Pre-study language and culture National Council of Science and Technology Committee myself in the country of Jürgen Klinsmann, courses a must! for Developing Bioscience Policy, has taught in various Nichts ist unmöglich/ capacities since his return from Germany, including as Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and “der Kaiser” Nothing is impossible! Thinking back, I believe it should be a full professor in Microbiology at JKUAT. Franz Beckenbauer. I really enjoyed mandatory for scholarship holders to As the head of the DAAD Alumni Association in Kenya Not only did the DAAD scholarship enable watching the Bundesliga on TV. My for many years, Prof. Boga serves as the Ambassador attend language and cultural introductory me to become a leading Kenyan scientist favourite club was of course SC Freiburg − Scientist for the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation courses prior to studying in Germany, even in Kenya. He is also a founding member of the African- in Microbiology, but it also provided me a team that really loved their soccer. I also if they were given in English. Talking with German Network for Scientific Excellence (AGNES), with a strong network and mentoring in played football with the guys in Germany, secretary of the Kenya Society for Microbiology and, alumni would aid in creating such tailor- administrative leadership – did you know and even played football with women – as an alumnus of the International Deans' Course, the made cultural orientation courses aimed at President of the Eastern African Network of DIES uni- that a large share of university leaders in a completely new experience for me. overcoming potential prejudices. The versity management alumni (REAL). Kenya today are DAAD scholars? I am the Another first: I embraced federalism as a bottom line stays the same: Everyone Principal of Taita Taveta University College. basis for political organization, as it could needs to keep an open mind and make Over a period of four years I oversaw the assure unity in diversity. Having grown up their own discoveries. successful growth and transition of the in Kenya, I thought a centralist political Taita Taveta Campus of Jomo Kenyatta system was the way to keep a country University of Agriculture and Technology together. Having learned about the German (JKUAT) into a constituent college with system and seeing it work, I realised that 2,000 students. »I learned to understand and appreciate other this is what Kenya needed if it was to be truly unified. cultures while being comfortable in my own.«
34 35 1990s Winds of change | Richard Jacob
Regional Director: Richard Jacob « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
I worked from 1994 to 2001 as Director agriculture or technology, only few African “Special Programme for Southern Africa” of the Regional Office for Africa and was, universities possessed qualified academic financed by Germany’s Federal Foreign Of- at least in principle, responsible for all supervisors or even PhD programmes. fice provided funding to 300 black South Af- Sub-Saharan countries, with the exception Besides, it was highly attractive to get ricans and Namibians, both new scholarship of South Africa. Around 30 of the over 40 a degree from a prestigious German holders and continuers. During my regular countries had universities or other higher university. What was initially stipulated an trips to South Africa, I experienced how the education institutions that communicated exception became the rule, with doctoral willingness to allow black South Africans to with the DAAD head office as well as the degrees being granted by the German host study varied from university to university. Nairobi office. These regional divisions, universities. After 1995, I watched with astonishment as coupled with the diversity of DAAD fund- This situation changed as more doctoral some of those South African universities, RICHARD JACOB, ing instruments, made for a wide range programmes were established at African which had only reluctantly admitted black REGIONAL DIRECTOR of tasks for the DAAD in Nairobi. I would universities, and the number of suitable South Africans before 1994, began topping FROM 1994 TO 2001 like to share a few memories that perhaps African supervisors increased. As a result, the priority lists of Kenyan, Ugandan, Ethio- even today, eleven years after my retire- in the second half of the 1990s, the DAAD pian and other African In-Region applicants. ment, are newsworthy. This positive development was a sign that things in South Africa were indeed changing by the office. A Kenyan In-Region scholar, quickly. scheduled to leave the next day for his »After 1995, South African universities began Master’s at the University of Botswana, was searching desperately for his wife, who was Responding to neighbours in crisis topping the priority lists of Kenyan, Ugandan in one of the destroyed buildings. I spent the and Ethiopian third-country applicants. The catastrophic wars that occurred in the day with him in different hospitals in Nairobi, second half of the 1990s in the Eastern scouring the lists of casualties. Luckily, his A sign that things were changing quickly.« African lake region, in Ethiopia/Eritrea wife was found with only slight injuries. and elsewhere resulted in a substantial increase of refugees to Kenya. Despite its Treasure trove of memories: own share of demographic and socio- Our DAAD alumni Starting out: Sandwich head office tried to return to the original idea economic challenges, Kenya generously Finally, I remember the DAAD’s 25th an- scholarships of the programme, with PhD candidates hosted refugees from these regions and niversary celebration in 1998. To lighten graduating at their respective African home countries. The DAAD responded by One of the DAAD funding schemes, namely up the programme, former Kenyan DAAD university. While I remained unconvinced increasing the number of scholarships the Sandwich Scholarship Programme, scholars were asked to narrate anecdotes that this change was necessary, it was my for qualified postgraduates among those developed in a way that had not been from their time in Germany. I can still job to persuade potential doctoral fellows – refugees, enabling them to continue their intended. Originally the programme was to remember Dr. Katana, physicist and then and even their African supervisors – to finish studies in Kenya. give African doctoral students the opportu- Academic Registrar of Kenyatta University, their PhDs in Africa, not in Germany. Luckily, nity to prepare extensive parts of their Of course, the 1998 attacks on the US who conducted part of his doctoral thesis exceptions were still made possible. theses at a German university, but obtain embassies in Nairobi and Dar es Salaam at the Max Planck Institute for Polymer their PhD at their home university. For Before I went to Nairobi, I had been the must not remain unmentioned here. Some Research in Mainz, recounting his tale of good reasons the programme developed head of the DAAD Africa section in Bonn of the first pickups transporting the seriously performing in the Mainz Cathedral as one of differently. In a number of subjects such as from 1985 to 1994. During this time the injured to the city’s hospitals passed close the three Magi from the East on Epiphany.
36 37 40 Jahre DAAD in Ostafrika Kolumnentitel
2001 - 2010
1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Changing challenges
Regional Directors 2001 – 2005: Cay Etzold 2005 – 2010: Gabriele von Fircks
One of the last decade’s most important events was the so-called “second liberation”: Mwai Kibaki’s election as president in 2002, ending 24 years of Moi’s rule. The reform process of the 1990s effected several constitutional changes in Kenya, one of which made it impossible for Moi to run for another term. In the 2002 general elections, his candidate and party were defeated by the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC) under the leadership of Mwai Kibaki, who garnered 62% of the popular vote.
Disagreement within the coalition ensued, however, making the 2007 elections a hotly contested race between former NARC partners Kibaki and Raila Odinga. The announced results, which handed the incumbent a second term, ended in violence, killing some 1,200 people and displacing up to 600,000. A grand coalition was brokered by Kofi Annan and former Tanzanian president Benjamin Mkapa, among others, that gave Kibaki the presidency and Odinga the post of prime minister. One of the biggest achievements of the coalition is without doubt Kenya’s new constitution, which was approved in 2010 in a peaceful referendum by 67% of the electorate.
38 39 2001 – 2010 Changing challenges
2001-2010 « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
More attention to higher education participating universities’ vice-presidents Crisis, reform and action In response and to ensure the quality of and deans to prepare them for the new teaching, the DAAD continued to strengthen The new millennium also saw the launch of The Kenya Education Sector Support quality assurance system. At the end of staff building capacities through initiatives the New Partnership for Africa’s Develop- Programme (KESSP), launched in 2005 and 2009, the DAAD invited a group of African like DIES, which supports HEIs in develop- ment (NEPAD), which was adopted by the supported by international donors such as vice-chancellors and chairpersons of ing countries to devise strategies for impro- Organisation of African Unity summit in the World Bank and the UK’s Department accreditation authorities to Germany to ving university management as well as the June 2001. One of NEPAD’s goals was to for International Development, enjoyed the exchange experiences with their German quality and relevance of study programmes. “promote networks of specialised research involvement of the DAAD since its counterparts. and higher education institutions.” To inception. Initially focused exclusively on achieve this, G8 and World Bank funding During this ten-year period, the DAAD also primary education, KESSP began including Alumni affairs: Work that matters was increased for higher education, marking expanded its university management secondary and tertiary education in its work Another affair of the heart for the regional a policy shift away from an exclusive focus activities in Eastern Africa with its pro- in 2007 and 2008 respectively. office was its alumni work. The Kenyan on primary education. gramme Dialogue on Innovative Higher In 2007 the Public Universities Inspection DAAD Scholars’ Association already had a Education Strategies (DIES). The first co- For the DAAD regional office, these policy Board published a report on the difficult viable network of 300 active members. financed grant programme in Sub-Saharan developments were encouraging – after all, situation at Kenyan universities. In response, DAAD alumni from Tanzania followed suit in Student numbers in Africa was also launched. The DAAD and the new policy goals had been its own focus the government established a commission 2008/2009, basing their organisation on the Kenya exploded in just the government of Tanzania agreed to jointly for many years. Supporting alumni networks to write a strategy paper with proposals for Kenyan model. A DAAD Scholars’ half a decade − fund up to 20 doctoral candidates in and networking in general, and cooperating higher education reform. Published in 2008, Association was also formed in Burundi in from 10,000 in 2005 to Germany, adding to the PhD grants offered with organisations such as the African Insect the recommendations included broadening 2009. The alumni associations helped 32,000 in 2011, leading by the DAAD. A similar agreement with Science for Food and Health, International access to higher education through distance organise several conferences and training to an acute shortage Kenya was also initiated. Livestock Research Institute, International learning, implementing quality assurance courses during this time, and in 2011 a new of qualified teaching Centre for Research in Agroforestry, Asso- Another important DAAD initiative started in programmes and conducting an in-depth postdoc programme for African alumni was staff. DAAD responded ciation of African Universities, Association this decade was the Higher Education review of higher education funding. launched. As a result, other organisations with initiatives for for the Development of Education in Africa, Excellence in Development Cooperation now look upon DAAD alumni support as a strengthening staff A pressing problem remained the intake at African Network of Scientific and Techno- programme, which provides support to best practice model − incentive enough to building capacities, Kenyan universities. Only a fraction of the logical Institutions, and the Inter-University institutions – German HEIs together with continue with the great work. such as the DIES country’s qualified high school students Council for East Africa (IUCEA) remained their partners in developing countries – ad- programme. could be awarded a place at a Kenyan Looking back keeps us focused on where high on the agenda. dressing the UN Millennium Development university. Brain drain, primarily to the US, we are going. In this spirit, the DAAD does Goals and other development cooperation One project involved collaborating with the the UK, Australia, Canada and India, not rest on the laurels but continues to de- policy goals in an innovative way. This IUCEA to establish a regional quality continued. The pressure to increase intake velop new strategies and ideas for achieving programme acknowledges that higher assurance system for higher education grew so great that new colleges and our goals of “enabling young academics and education cooperation is a key factor for institutions (HEIs) in Kenya, Tanzania and universities were founded or upgraded. researchers from around the world to be- sustainable development. Universities Uganda. A quality assurance manual was Student numbers exploded as a result, come leaders in the fields of science, culture, participating in the programme from the developed with local experts, and future increasing from 10,000 in 2005 to 32,000 in economics, and politics – as well as friends region include Egerton in Kenya, Sokoine in quality assurance officers were trained at 2010. This led to an even more acute and partners of Germany, and supporting Tanzania and Jimma in Ethiopia. German and African universities. Pilot shortage of qualified academic staff, not to the process of economic and democratic re- evaluations and peer reviews were also mention heavier workloads. forms in developing countries...by supporting carried out. Workshops were held for the their academic research and progress.”
40 41 2001 – 2010 Changing challenges | Joy Kiiru
Joy M. Kiiru « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Education opens Space to open up and grow opportunities Studying in Germany also made a difference. I realised that with a good The DAAD scholarship presented an education, opportunities abound, and it is excellent opportunity for me as a woman, possible to afford a good lifestyle in Kenya. as it not only provided funding, but also After initial difficulties getting integrated enabled me to take my family along with into my new surroundings in Germany, I grew more open-minded and became increasingly so through the interaction with different people from different countries. The course on intercultural competencies that was offered to us in our first year of study in Germany courtesy of DAAD in Bonn really helped me in this respect. Moreover, I was able to live in an environment where you could think and interact openly. I learned how important it is to express myself – no matter if others disagree – and to give others as well as myself space to grow. »I learned how important it is to express The most prominent and exciting experi- myself – no matter if others disagree – and to ence I had when I was in Germany was Pope Benedict’s visit to Cologne. I went give others as well as myself space to grow.« to see him together with some of my friends. It was also interesting to see that no matter what part of society you come from, you use public transport or the Family-friendliness appreciated! JOY M. KIIRU bicycle. Even my professor came to work I truly believe the DAAD is one of the best me. Before I went to Germany, I was an on his bicycle − you would never see such Prior to her studies in Germany, Joy M. Kiiru was Assistant funding agencies for scholarships available. assistant lecturer without permanent a thing in Kenya! Lecturer at the University of Nairobi’s School of Economics. The stipend was enough to live on, even After returning from Germany in 2007, Joy M. Kiiru was employment at the university. The PhD with a family. Hence the DAAD provides promoted to the position of Lecturer in 2008 at the same was decisive in opening career opportuni- university. She holds a PhD from the University of Bonn, opportunities to students who would have ties to me that would not have been there completed her Master’s in Malawi and obtained a BA from otherwise not had the chance to pursue an Nairobi University. Her main research interests include social otherwise. Now I am supervising PhD protection, trade policy, microfinance, food security, gender advanced degree, especially when they students – my first advisee graduated in and development. She was awarded the First Prize Medal for already have a family. Please continue! Research on Development by the Global Development 2012. I believe that sound economic Network in 2010 for her PhD thesis on the impact of analyses are a prerequisite to increasing aid microfinance on poverty reduction. efficiency.
42 43 2001 – 2010 Changing challenges | Cay Etzold
Regional Director: Cay Etzold « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Having never been to Africa before, the the DAAD’s participation in important Kenya’s universities. The DAAD took beginning of my tenure as Regional Direc- social discourses. measures to change this. The culmination tor in Nairobi was exciting and dramatic in of our efforts was a conference held in May The very first meeting of In-Country schol- every regard. I arrived 10 September 2001 2002 on the historical grounds in Limuru arship holders was held at Egerton Univer- in the evening, and can still recall the first titled “Institutionalising Democracy in sity in 2002. The annual format, which was impressions − the speedy journey to the Kenya: Prospects and Challenges.” The also adopted at other universities, gave lec- hotel, the noises of a tropical night and conference, which produced a very popular turers and students the chance to discuss the smell of African soil. The next day was and quickly out-of-print brochure, paved the their plans and research ideas. The results filled with meetings and other tasks. Then, way for a more active role of the universities were published and very sought after. Titles at night I saw the frightening images on TV in public discourse. included “Toward Harmonisation of Post- CAY ETZOLD, and could hardly believe it. September 11th graduate Training through improved Stu- REGIONAL DIRECTOR had changed the world forever. Kenya was dent-Supervisor Relationships”, “Research In the name of quality and growth FROM 2001 TO 2005 not spared either, with a grenade attack in Ethics” and “Research Management, Data the city of Mombasa in November. Until 2001 the number of scholarships for Acquisition, Analysis, Interpretation and Africans had been steadily decreasing. I Dissemination”. By 2005 the series had Galvanizing networks decided to check this negative trend with broadened its scope to include not just a new push for quality in tertiary education, Fond memories I focused on three main areas as Regional Kenyan but also regional topics. making quality assurance one of our main Director: mobilising and interlinking DAAD One of the most special moments as As for our alumni, we decided to concen- action areas. One of the most important scholarship holders at the universities, Regional Director was when DAAD alumna trate first on the Kenya DAAD Scholars As- partners in this drive for more quality was mobilising DAAD alumni, and enhancing Wangari Maathai won the Nobel Peace sociation (KDSA) with the aim of motivating the Inter-University Council for East Africa Prize in 2004. I will never forget her speech both former Master’s and PhD students (IUCEA). In October 2003 a large regional at the University of Nairobi, given shortly who had graduated in Germany to join in Africa-DIES (Dialogue on Innovative Higher after receiving the award. Having had the DAAD alumni activities. It did not take long Education Strategies) conference took privilege of getting to know her person- before a new KDSA executive committee place, marking the beginning of what is still ally, I will always have fond memories of was elected. KDSA chapters were estab- a fruitful and strong partnership between her warm-hearted nature – a common trait lished in Kenya’s six public universities be- the DAAD and the IUCEA. among the Kenyans I had gotten to know. tween 2002 and 2005, and they still exist The regional importance of the DAAD today. These measures heralded a new era grew and large alumni meetings were held of DAAD alumni work in Kenya. in Tanzania (2003) and Ethiopia (2004). New universities such as Gulu University Spearheading dialogue in Uganda were included in the scholarship I arrived in Nairobi when Kenya was programmes, and regional networks, like the venturing a fresh start. What I saw was an Integrated Watershed Management Network unprecedented constitutional discussion in Kenya, were supported and strengthened. process that spanned all segments of Federal Chancellor Gerhard Schröder also society – all, that is, except academia. paid a visit and was received in Addis Ababa Constitutional debate was all but absent in by 700 enthusiastic DAAD alumni.
44 45 2001 – 2010 Changing challenges | Gabriele von Fircks
Regional Director: Gabriele von Fircks « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
When I think back to my tenure as In 2009 we organised a seminar on the Regional Director, what comes to my mind occasion of the 60th anniversary of the immediately are the dramatic events that introduction of the German constitution unfolded in the wake of the parliamentary (Grundgesetz) to discuss constitutional and presidential elections at the close of Undoubtedly the highlights of my time in questions, building on the constitutional 2007. The universities were closed and Nairobi were the alumni meetings we process in Kenya, which had grown out of teaching resumed only gradually. The time organised in 2006, 2008 and 2009. Since the post-election violence in 2008. The aim of closure was compensated by shortening 2006 was dominated by the Football World was to look more closely at the history and the summer break. Cup in Germany, we hosted a giant football implementation of the German constitu- tournament with eight universities in May. tion, examining key aspects, such as GABRIELE VON FIRCKS, Kenyatta University came out the winner. centralism vs. federalism, majority vs. Invigorating alumni work REGIONAL DIRECTOR There was a catch, however: each team proportional representation, parliamentary FROM 2005 TO 2010 Modern means of communication had a had to include at least two DAAD alumni. constitution vs. presidential constitution, hand in improving the work of the regional A symposium on football was carried out and questions on judicial pluralism. office. Over the course of my five years in parallel to the tournament, which included Nairobi, communication changed not only scientists but also referees, considerably. In 2005, for example, email coaches as well as the managers of was used only occasionally due to the Kenya’s first and second football leagues. poorly equipped universities. By 2010, »Modern means of communication had a hand email had become the standard form of In dialogue on big issues in improving the work of the regional office. By 2010, communication. This positive development made networking and alumni work easier The first big regional alumni conference email was the standard form of communication, making than ever before. took place in 2008. DAAD and Alexander networking and alumni work easier than ever before.« von Humboldt Foundation alumni from across the East African Community (EAC) were invited to come and discuss issues such as the political and economic All these activities would not have been integration of the region, regional possible without the excellent team at the cooperation in research, biodiversity as regional office. I wish the colleagues in well as environmental challenges, both Nairobi continued joy and success for their regionally and globally. tasks ahead!
46 47 40Koumnentitel Jahre DAAD in Ostafrika Kolumnentitel
Since 2010
1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Joining hands
Regional Director 2010 - present: Christoph Hansert
Most recently our work has focused on initiating and foster- ing joint efforts. Today over 25 PhD candidates leave Kenya for Germany each year to start their studies, three times more than before the launch of the Kenya-German Postgrad- uate Training Programme in 2010. And in 2014, the first group of freshly-minted PhDs from Tanzania – also products of a joint scholarship programme – will return home, where they are dearly awaited as university lecturers. In 2011 DAAD moved its coordination of the joint Quality Assurance Initiative with the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) and the German Rectors’ Conference (HRK) to the Nairobi Office. Since then, the IUCEA has gradually taken over the leading role as well as half the financing.
We are also working to bring people together – our In-Country scholars in Kenya, Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda, for example, were finally provided a platform to meet for the first time in 2011 through a series of seminars offered in partnership with the Information Training and Outreach Centre for Africa. Not only did they receive important training in the use of e-resources, but were given the chance to meet with the DAAD’s national alumni associations.
Finally, two new jointly-financed lecturers will soon strengthen our regional network, taking up work at the National Univer- sity of Rwanda and the University of Dar es Salaam.
48 49 Since 2010 Joining hands | Abrahm Rugo Muriu
Abraham Rugo Muriu « 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Attitude matters society and to offer everyone my best, planning. Parallel to that, I mentor high regardless of their background or financial school students on personal development, When I was awarded the DAAD scholar- standing – even if others do not do the choices, and public speaking. ship to do my MA in Germany, my fam- same. I learned that people and their at- ily’s first reaction was shock. We simply Reflecting on my stay in Germany, titudes determine whether a governance did not know what to expect and how it I was amazed by people’s personal drive system works or not – attitude matters would impact our lives. There was no rea- that often went beyond the call of duty. and influences change. son for concern, however, as the DAAD Germans also like their holidays, utilising enabled me to take my family with me for them to experience as much as they can ABRAHAM RUGO MURIU the one-year study period at the University New perspectives, new roles and travel the world. And unlike Kenya’s Currently the Futures Programme Officer with the of Potsdam. communal society, Germans are more Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), Abraham Rugo My studies in Germany presented a turn- Muriu returned from Germany in October 2012, where individualistic, focusing primarily on their ing point in my career. The DAAD Public he obtained his Master's of Public Management from immediate family. Germany also struck the University of Potsdam. He has been a member of Policy and Good Governance (PPGG) me as a fairly rule-based society, which the Board of Directors of the International Institute of Scholarship programme gave me the Legislative Affairs since 2005. I believe is necessary in such a diverse opportunity to specialise in policy studies society. and instilled within me the desire to become Kenya’s lead expert in public administration and management. Being in Germany helped me to see Kenya more clearly and in a different light. I started »I learned that people and their attitudes believing that change is possible, under- determine whether a governance standing that it takes time and dedication to build a society. We need to be patient system works or not – attitude matters.« with ourselves while working continuously toward our goals.
Almost immediately upon my return Hats off to the DAAD staff! from Germany, I was made the Futures As far as the excellence of the DAAD Programme Officer at the Institute of scholarship programme goes, this is due Economic Affairs (IEA) in Kenya, a leading not only to high-quality communication independent think tank in public policy and information, but to the personal com- research, analysis and advocacy. I provide mitment of the DAAD staff. I convey my The scholarship changed my outlook on overall leadership and management, strong appreciation for the people at the many things. For one, I developed a more design and coordinate policy research, DAAD. May they continue helping individ- international perspective and became less conduct fundraising and manage project uals and countries develop and transform prejudiced. Most importantly, it instilled implementation – all with the aim to popu- themselves. Thank you! in me the desire to become wholly dedi- larise methodologies such as scenario cated to my work and committed towards thinking, vision building and strategic
50 51 DAAD funding programmes
DAAD funding programmes «
The DAAD Regional Office for Africa university professors can also receive Funding - Eastern Africa 2663 provides information about institutions of funding from the DAAD’s and Stifterver- higher education and research institutions band Emeriti Programme to teach at an in Germany. It offers scholarships and African university for at least one semester. research grants, supports guest professor- Our programme “Subject-related partner- 1500 ships and assists in establishing university ships with universities in the developing collaborations between the Eastern Africa world” aims at building and strengthen- region and Germany. Individual scholar- ing infrastructures at partner universities 1000 The DAAD was able to ships are awarded for Master’s and PhD through university collaboration. The award four scholar- study in Germany as well as at selected Dialogue on Innovative Higher Education 500 ships to students from universities in the region. Newly estab- Strategies (DIES) programme facilitates South Sudan in 2013, lished collaborations with governments in international exchange in matters of in- marking a first. The
Eastern Africa also provide scholarships novative higher education policy, including 100 0 scholarships make it for staff members of public universities quality assurance. possible for the recipi- and public research institutes in the region Collaborating with our alumni is an integral 0 ents to pursue Master for doctoral training in Germany. Master’s 1960 until 1961–1970 1971–1980 1981–1990 1991–2000 2001–201 2011–2012 part of the DAAD’s work. Individual support degree programmes scholarships in Germany are available in is provided to alumni for scientific literature, in Kenya and Tanzania the applied fields, such as Engineering, Total number of scholarships/grants re-invitations to their former host institu- that are relevant to the Agriculture or Public Health, as well as in tions in Germany and equipment grants development of their Public Policy/Good Governance and the for their local universities and research DIES programme young country. Arts. institutes. Alumni can also receive funding Ethiopia, Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda The DAAD offers a wide range of funding to attend international conferences and instruments and schemes aimed at devel- workshops or to organise their own alumni 900 oping not only individuals but fostering ex- seminars. 800 change and knowledge transfer between 700 higher education institutions in Eastern Africa and Germany. The DAAD Regional 600 Office supports university staff exchanges 500 between African and German universities 400 on both short and long-term bases. It also sends German language and culture 300 lecturers to African universities through its 200 Lektor programme, and German academ- 100 ics to African universities as part of the Advisory Programme. Retired German 0 2000/06 2007/08 2009/10 2011/12
52 53 Koumnentitel Kolumnentitel
Alumni thoughts on the DAAD and Germany »Family-friendly« »Federalism - unity in diversity works« »Good education« »Vibrant alumni »Environmental community« consciousness« »Lasting friendships« »Door-opener«
»Creating »Contributing to opportunities« transformation »Change processes« through »Partner in personal exchange« and academic growth«
54 55 Kolumnentitel
Profile: Eastern Africa and its alumni »
Huge potential for German universities
The DAAD office in Nairobi is celebrating its 40-year existence with numerous events in Africa. Regional office head Christoph Hansert spoke about the diverse activities of the DAAD Regional Office in Eastern Africa and advocates for new partner- ships outside of the capital cities.
Mr. Hansert, how is the DAAD Regional Office in Nairobi celebrating its 40 years of existence?
In May 2013 we initiated the first German Studies Confer- ence in East Africa in cooperation with the Goethe-Institut Nairobi to provide a scientific forum for the German Stud- ies community in the region.
Shortly after that, the annual conference of the Kenyan DAAD alumni dealt with the topic of sustainable urban planning. During the event, governors from recently estab- lished Kenyan counties spoke with 180 alumni and DAAD scholars about ways in which universities can contribute to current reform processes. The approach of bringing universities in closer contact with issues of local relevance has not only been much appreciated but successful. One of the outcomes has been an agreement to plan a flood protection system; another project has been lined up to establish a waste management system. »
56 57 Profile: Eastern Africa and its alumni Interview: Huge potential for German universities
Interview: Christoph Hansert «
We are a regional office, which means If you look back at the history ment positions, such as the ministers for our anniversary celebration extends of the regional office in Nairobi, energy and infrastructure or Professor beyond Kenya. We are therefore planning which steps have been crucial to Mayunga Nkunya, the Excecutive Secretary to showcase the diversity of the DAAD’s its development? of the Inter-University Council for East engagement in the region, which ranges Africa. In the context of expanding coopera- The regional office in Nairobi has evolved from academic exchange in develop- tion between Germany and the economi- from a project office for scholarships to ment cooperation and targeted promotion cally-emergent Eastern Africa, it is a great a network centre that promotes scientific of leadership capacities, to ambitious opportunity to have contacts like these. cooperation between Eastern Africa and Regional Director Christoph Hansert research cooperation. Some event high- Germany on various levels − from individual lights: in November, we will be addressing What is the thematic focus of scholarships and university partnerships to the issue of water use in a joint event with cooperation in Eastern Africa? the advancement of university systems. the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internation- With its expertise in technologies for For the past five years we have been sup- The region is known for its strength in ale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the Ministry downstream plant construction and porting carefully selected African-German geography, agro- and biosciences. For ex- for Education in Tanzania; we will also transport infrastructure, Germany is well centres of excellence which combine ample, the DAAD supports the renowned celebrate the jubilee with alumni meetings positioned as a potential and important all these elements. Two years ago, the International Livestock Research Institute, in Sudan and Uganda. Afterwards, we will partner. But you need locally-educated, DAAD began using an integrated approach host of “BeCA Hub”, an excellently take up the question of how the DAAD qualified employees. to support high-level research coopera- equipped bio-technology laboratory, with contributes to educating responsible tion and doctoral education as part of the scholarships for doctorates and postdocs. In addition, there is a largely untapped leadership. “Welcome to Africa” programme. Kenya is also home to an innovative soft- potential for cooperation between For our big alumni meeting in Nairobi in ware industry, which develops creative medium-sized German universities and From my point of view, we need more May 2014, we are organising preparatory and practical apps for smartphones – from non-capital universities in Eastern Africa. bilateral centres of excellence; they should events in cooperation with the German money transfer apps to apps for the latest These can be highly dynamic and reliable be selected and financed by way of a political foundations to combine the aca- news on marketing agricultural products. partners. Some partnerships are already transparent and competitive process jointly demic and the political perspectives. People who are interested can read about in place: TH Wildau cooperates with the organised by African and international And finally, we will explore future research similar approaches and potential research well-equipped Dedan Kimathi Univer- partners. This would be one way to solve cooperation with the Alexander von Hum- cooperation opportunities in the newly sity of Technology in the Kenyan town the current extreme shortage of high-level boldt Foundation as part of a regional published “Country Profile Kenya” from of Nyeri; FH Bingen cooperates with university lecturers without compromising Humboldt convention in March 2014. GATE Germany (www.gate-germany.de). the Catholic University in Ruhengeri in quality. northern Rwanda; and the University of As you can see, celebrating our 40th Vechta cooperates with the Catholic St. anniversary is about celebrating together What role do the DAAD alumni Is Eastern Africa’s significance Augustine University of Tanzania, located – with our DAAD alumni and with our play in your work in the region? for scientific exchange underesti- in Mwanza on the shores of Lake Victoria. long-time Eastern African and German mated? A very important one. The DAAD’s dense It is definitely profitable for German uni- partners. network of alumni in Eastern Africa is Yes, I believe it is. And yet there is a huge versities to look closely at Africa and to be unmatched. Many leadership positions in potential for German universities and com- among those who recognise an emerging Kenya’s most important universities are panies in the region. One example from region of the world. The DAAD Regional filled with DAAD alumni. In Tanzania, DAAD the energy sector is the large gas deposits Office for Africa in Nairobi is willing and alumni are also found in high-level govern- just off Africa’s east coast. able to render support.
58 59 Profile: Eastern Africa and its alumni Willy Marcel Ndayitwayeko
Burundi: Willy Marcel Ndayitwayeko
Working for brain gain in Burundi «
I was a second-year Agronomy student at Master’s degree and a new lease the University of Burundi when a bloody on life civil war broke out in my home country. I On a personal level, my Master’s studies True to DAAD, on behalf of narrowly escaped death and fled to Kenya. with the DAAD boosted my self-esteem as Burundi Fortunately, during that time, the DAAD well as my academic profile. And since I created a programme that targeted not I liked the way DAAD selected its came to Kenya as a refugee with not much only Kenyans but also refugees from other scholarship candidates, with transparency hope of ever resuming my interrupted countries. I whole-heartedly thank the and gender equity, and the coverage in studies, the DAAD scholarship provided regional director at that time, Cay Etzold, Africa. My affiliation with DAAD continues me with a treasured “second chance”. for such a noble initiative. I finished my to this day. I am president of ABADAAD, »Because I had to interrupt Master's degree at Moi University in Access to DAAD publications, newsletters, a Burundian DAAD alumni association. my academic work due to the Kenya; the refugee programme ended just the DAAD online portal and networking Together with my friends (and former ongoing civil war, the DAAD was when I wanted to apply for an In-Country with fellow alumni has helped me scholarship holders), I created this like a foster parent that enabled PhD programme. understand what needs to be done to association so that we alumni could me to finish my studies.« reduce or eradicate human suffering in network together and continue to have an I applied for a DAAD scholarship in order to Burundi. It has helped me apply the skills I impact on the society of Burundi. I am also obtain advanced knowledge in the career I acquired during my studies – to help active in the DAAD alumni portal and the was pursuing, and so that I could serve my humanity by transferring the knowledge Kenya DAAD Scholars Association (KDSA). society in Burundi effectively. Because I and technology gained in education at the had to interrupt my academic work due to grassroots level. the ongoing civil war, the DAAD was like a foster parent that enabled me to finish my I was so glad to hear the news that the studies. Before earning the DAAD grant, I war had ended in Burundi in 2005. By » My degree was like a complete rebirth and a had completed my Bachelor under the 2006, Burundian refugee repatriation was new passport. It helped me to be selected DAFI scholarship programme. As the job taking place and I also applied for voluntary was not yet done, DAAD wonderfully repatriation in 2007. What might have been from a large pool of applicants and be employed carried me through from 2004 to 2007 so a brain drain became a brain gain for by the University of Burundi.« that I was better equipped for the task that Burundi. I secured my first job as an awaited me back home in Burundi in 2008, assistant lecturer at the University of when I was appointed Assistant Lecturer. Burundi, also because of my choice of subject, since not many in Burundi hold a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics. Grow the regional EAC programme! My degree was like a complete rebirth and a new passport. It helped me to be Personally, I am pleased that since selected from a large pool of applicants 2010, DAAD’s regional EAC programme and be employed by the University of has been enlarged to include Burundi Burundi. Now I am considered among the and Rwanda. May the DAAD continue country’s scholars and accepted in a circle to grow and have a positive impact on of ‘elites’ in Burundi. people’s lives.
60 61 Profile: Eastern Africa and its alumni Tsige Gebre-Mariam
Ethiopia: Tsige Gebre-Mariam
Promoting education in a globalised world «
I received my PhD Degree from the the system as a whole was amazing. I was University of Wales in the UK and first also impressed by the level of environ- came to Tübingen/Germany in 1994 as a mental awareness among Germans. They postdoctoral fellow with the Alexander von treat nature, greenery, and the landscape Humboldt Foundation. I came to Germany with great care and everything is well again from July to September 1997 for maintained. Today, German-educated scholars are a short research visit sponsored by the leading numerous academic and research Something I found rather annoying was DAAD. The main reason for applying for institutions in many African countries. Let that some people tasked you about going DAAD sponsorship was that Germany had us enhance solidarity among African and back to your country. They failed to under- the kind of advanced scientific equipment German academic institutions and schol- stand that some people do return to their I needed to pursue my research. ars. In this globalised world, failure or suc- home country after accomplishing their cess in one part of the world has an impact I experienced German people as hard mission, and that this is a matter of their on other parts of the world as well! working, disciplined and time conscious. own choice! These unpleasant encounters » The main reason for applying for DAAD sponsorship was They have a sense of ownership and were outweighed, however, by the sincere that Germany had the kind of advanced scientific equipment every German is an ambassador of his/ and everlasting friendships I built. Once the I needed to pursue my research.« her country. Germans are governed by the Germans get to know you, they become rule of the law, and they keep everything trustworthy friends. in order! The orderliness and reliability of I currently participate in several alumni associations in order to meet friends and discuss how to promote scholarship op- » Today, German-educated scholars are portunities for young academics. These leading numerous academic and research PROF. DR. TSIGE GEBRE-MARIAM include the Association of Ethiopians Educated in Germany (AEEG) and alumni institutions in many African countries. « Apart from serving Addis Ababa University (AAU) as Professor, Head of the Department of Pharmaceutics (1989- activities organised by the Alexander von 1993; 1995-2003), Dean of the School of Pharmacy, AAU Humboldt Foundation and the DAAD. (2003-2005) and Vice President for Graduate Studies and Research, Professor Tsige also has an impressive record of Africa is making headway in shaping its In Africa today, the rate of enrolment into other involvements including: future and DAAD has been a partner in this tertiary education is increasing faster • Founding member of the Ethiopian Academy of Sciences endeavour. As a friend of Africa, the DAAD than any other continent. DAAD should has contributed significantly to improving enhance its collaboration and enhance the • Founding member of the Ethiopian Languages Academy Africa’s human development index (HDI) academic exchanges it has been pursuing • Member, Managing Board, Food, Medicine and Healthcare by providing a variety of scholarships to tal- over the last 40 years! The world would Administration and Control Authority, Ethiopia ented young Africans, including In-Country be a better place for humankind if all had • Member, Board of Directors, Regional Bioequivalence scholarships, sandwich programmes, and better access to education. This is a key Centre direct scholarships to Germany. factor to development! Germany and the • Referee for several peer reviewed indexed journals DAAD have been exemplary in the support they have extended to Africa. Keep up the • Member, International Network for Rational Use of Drugs innovative work you have been doing!
62 63 Profile: Eastern Africa and its alumni Christophe Bazivamo
Rwanda: Christophe Bazivamo
Helping the Phoenix rise from the ashes «
What influenced me a great deal was the A growth opportunity in difficult »I wish all the best for the DAAD in the future way things in Germany were organised. In times Germany, most people and services are and hope they will manage to market themselves My DAAD scholarship actually did not very punctual and reliable. People work begin on a good note. I had to leave my even better and increase awareness of their precisely and according to a plan to home country earlier than planned because minimize bad surprises. The academic level high-level competitiveness.« of the genocide in Rwanda in 1994. So my I reached through my DAAD scholarship, start in Germany was rather difficult, not combined with the time management and so much because of the new situation in planning skills I was able to develop, has to: the way people greet each other. I was Spread the good word! Germany, but because of the situation helped me tremendously in my efforts to once in town and saw somebody I had back home in Rwanda. I wish all the best for the DAAD in the build up my country in the various political seen on campus so I naturally greeted him. future and hope they will manage to positions I have held since 1999. This made it all the more meaningful to me The response I got was: “Kennen wir market themselves even better and to receive such a warm welcome in uns?” which basically means: “Do I know increase awareness of their high-level Göttingen in my German course at the you?” I was very taken aback and found it competitiveness. Goethe Institut. The DAAD scholarship very rude. Only later did I understand that made it possible for me to meet people the person probably found it rude of me to from different cultures and backgrounds. greet him without really knowing him. I For me personally, this opened me up and learned that building a relationship can be gave me greater confidence when inter- very hard in Germany at first, but once it acting with other people. The DAAD’s role has been built it is very reliable and lasting; HON. CHRISTOPHE BAZIVAMO in promoting and enabling international you make friends for life. Christophe Bazivamo currently is a Rwandan MP, member understanding and intercultural exchange of the East African Legislative Assembly and Vice President Also, when I took part in meetings with of the Rwanda Patriotic Front. After returning from is something that cannot be stressed larger groups, I would often wonder why Germany, he served his country in various positions: enough. My firm belief is that this creates people did not introduce themselves, as • 1997-1999: Homologue (national coordinator) of the a positive environment for sustainable we do in Rwanda. Only after the meeting, Deutsche Welthungerhilfe School Feeding Project in development. Rwanda would I (sometimes) get to know the • 1999-2000: Governor of Gitarama province names of the people I had been talking to. Germany’s hard exterior • 2000-2002: Executive Secretary of the Rwandan Electoral Commission, organising the first free Having been affiliated with the German Networking better sooner than elections after the genocide Technical Cooperation (GTZ) as a project later • 2002-2004: Minister of Local Government, »The DAAD’s role in promoting and enabling international leader, choosing the DAAD and Germany Rural Development, Social Affairs and Information understanding and intercultural exchange is something that for my studies was the natural choice. I In Rwanda we are still working on putting • 2004-2005: Minister of Internal Security cannot be stressed enough.« also received a great deal of encourage- together a network of DAAD alumni. I • 2005-2007: Minister of Land, Environment, Forestry, ment from my German colleagues to apply. would encourage the DAAD and scholars Water and Mining Since I had worked with Germans before, to start networking earlier, i.e. during the making the adjustment to Germany and its time of the scholarship. It is easier to customs was not too difficult, but there maintain a contact from that time than it is was one thing I really did have to get used to establish new contacts later.
64 65 Profile: Eastern Africa and its alumni Muna Abdelaziz Mohamed
Sudan: Muna Abdelaziz Mohamed
Friendships can create change «
The DAAD scholarship had a great impact on my career and personal life. Today, »When I was living in Germany, I was pleasantly I am not only an Assistant Professor at the University of Khartoum, but am also surprised by how its citizens respect the rules part of the curriculum committee and and regulations in all aspects of their lives.« director of the training programme. Furthermore, I am involved in many Germany’s lasting values activities within our faculty and even at higher administration levels of our Germany is very different compared to promised me then that she would study university. The scholarship gave me Sudan. Germans are hard working, start English in high school and come and visit confidence about what I do and how I do their day very early, are punctual and have me in Sudan. She came for a visit last it. I became more positive and open a high level of technological development year and spent two weeks with my family. minded and started dealing with all my – all factors that are lacking in Sudan. She is 17 now and we are still in contact. work as a project. Hard work is always appreciated and people respect you for what you are achieving regardless of who you are or Proud to be DAAD where you come from. What the DAAD is doing for our region is When I was living in Germany, I was much appreciated and visible to many. pleasantly surprised by how its citizens Most alumni are willing to participate in respect the rules and regulations in all and support ongoing DAAD activities as a aspects of their lives. Germany has a way to show our appreciation and to highly organised governance system that increase the number of candidates makes life easy for all; even those who supported by the DAAD. I offer a course MUNA ABDELAZIZ MOHAMED have no knowledge of the language can for people who want to apply for a DAAD Currently a lecturer and Assistant Professor at the manage to live without any problem. scholarship and have conducted Faculty of Medicine of the University of Khartoum, However, in order to communicate and proposal-writing courses twice a year Muna Abdelaziz Mohamed holds a PhD in Biology from the Free University of Berlin. She did her MSc and BSc connect easily with the community you since 2008. I also helped organise two in Zoology at the University of Khartoum, Sudan need to speak German. Once I did, DAAD conferences on science and I made very sincere friends. research in Africa, as well as on genetics and its application in life. I have many friends from Germany that visit me regularly at my house in I am proud to be a DAAD alumna and Khartoum. The daughter of one of my wish the DAAD a happy 40th anniversary close German friends was four years old in Eastern Africa. »Most alumni are willing to participate in and support ongoing when I was in Germany in 1999. She DAAD activities as a way to show our appreciation and to increase the number of candidates supported by the DAAD.«
66 67 Profile: Eastern Africa and its alumni Aggrey Abate
South Sudan: Aggrey Abate
DAAD helping in staff development «
Before coming to Germany I was My DAAD scholarship, wich took me the Sudan, the extensive use of machines employed as a Teaching Assistant at the to Bonn, influenced my professional in building construction was very University of Juba while pursuing an MSc approach to things. Most of all, it enhanced noticeable. Germany also had a very at the University of Nairobi, which was my attention to detail and precision. It well-developed and efficient transport partly supported by the DAAD. After also prepared me well for the challenges system, especially by train. Another completion of the MSc and a semester of I have met as an academic in the years aspect of life, which struck me coming teaching, the University of Juba recom- since my return from Germany. from Sudan, was how little the cost of mended that I proceed for a DAAD-funded living changed in Germany while I was PhD in Germany. A safe and stable haven in there. For me, one reason for this was uncertain times the strength and stability of the Deutsche Mark. Sadly, my stay in the early 1980s coincided with the start of the second war Through its support of graduate training between the northern and southern parts in many disciplines, the DAAD’s Regional of the then still united Sudan. This made Office has been part of the solution to PROF. DR. AGGREY ABATE the warm reception in Germany all the staff development in many academic more important to me. Overall, I had the institutions in the region. In this way, the Professor Abate currently serves as the Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba, South Sudan. He has feeling that Germans are generally DAAD has contributed to the creation of previously held the position of Dean of the College of courteous to foreigners. a pool of highly qualified and skilled Natural Resources and Environmental Studies at the workers. University of Juba and was the founding head of the My general impression was that Germans Department of Animal Science at the University of are disciplined and organised in the way Namibia. For a decade, he taught at the University of More of a good thing! Nairobi in Kenya. He has also served on committees and they do things. It was apparent that task forces at all three universities. German citizens believe in quality. On the occasion of its 40th anniversary, Prof. Abate has published widely in peer reviewed German towns, for example, are well I believe it is worth considering scaling up journals and has edited proceedings for book chapters maintained and kept clean. Compared to DAAD support, including more research and consultancy reports. He is a member of various scientific bodies in eastern and southern Africa. grants to assist in solving many of the region’s development challenges. Prof. Abate is a founding member of the South Sudan Nature Conservation Organisation. He is also a member of the National Council for Higher Education, the South Sudan Examinations Council and the Board of Directors of South Sudan Urban Water Corporation. » The DAAD’s Regional Office has been part of the solution to staff development in many academic institutions in the region and has helped create a pool »On the occasion of its 40th anniversary, I believe it is worth of highly qualified and skilled workers.« considering scaling up DAAD support, including research grants to assist in solving many of the region’s development challenges.«
68 69 Profile: Eastern Africa and its alumni Mayunga Nkunya
Tanzania: Mayunga Nkunya
Raising academic standards in Tanzania and Eastern Africa «
I came to Germany with the DAAD did not speak English very well, although A wave of Tanzanian PhD PROF. MAYUNGA NKUNYA postdoctoral research programme in 1987. most people did try to help me with their candidates in Germany At the time, I had professional contact with existing English. I needed a translator Professor Nkunya has been Executive Secretary of the At a 2006/7 quality assurance workshop Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) since a professor from Erlangen. We decided on when dealing with the chemical store, November 2010. After returning from his DAAD in Bonn, we discussed the problem of a joint project and then successfully because the staff there could not speak post-doctoral research programme, Professor Nkunya continued staff shortages at East African launched an impressive career in Tanzanian and Eastern approached the DAAD for funding. My any English. In general, I found there was a universities. The idea was born to launch a African academics: stay in Germany expanded my network lot of trust given to me at my institute. programme, co-financed by East African • 1989 – 1994: Associate Professor of Chemistry, within the scientific community. This I was given a key to the lab, for example, governments and the DAAD, to enable University of Dar es Salaam proved to be a tremendous asset after my so that I could work independently at all »A total of 71 African scholars to pursue their PhD • Jan – May 1994: Visiting Associate Professor, return to the University of Dar es Salaam, hours. This gave me a lot of freedom and Hampton University, USA institutions in 5 East studies in Germany. At that time I was as it helped me to establish a strong allowed me to organise my research very African countries have Executive Secretary of the Tanzania • Since 1994: Professor of Chemistry, chemistry research group there. effectively. This was something that I had University of Dar es Salaam now participated in Commission for Universities (TCU) and not experienced before – neither in • 1996 – 1999: Dean, Faculty of Science, quality assurance second only to the minister of education, Tanzania nor in the Netherlands, where I University of Dar es Salaam workshops, with the Newfound freedom, with just a so I set out to convince the government of had studied before. • 1999 – 2006: Chief Academic Officer, goal of harmonising few restrictions the idea. We managed to win over the University of Dar es Salaam the quality of higher I came to enjoy regional food specialities “doubting Thomases” and agree to a cost My stay in Erlangen was a challenge due • 2007 – 2010: Executive Secretary, education in the region.« like pork shoulder and beer. Actually my sharing ratio of 60% (government) to 40% Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU) to the language barrier. My German was institute in Erlangen was situated next to a (DAAD). One bone of contention was the not good and many on the university staff brewery so there was complimentary beer funding of spouses, but the DAAD agreed at a lot of official functions. to cover part of those costs.
Something that I had to get used to was The programme was successfully launched programme for universities in 5 Eastern having to be cautious with greeting people in 2009 with 60 applicants. Not everybody African countries. A total of 71 institutions or engaging them in small talk. In Tanzania could get a scholarship, because the have now participated in workshops with it is normal to bump into somebody you do government scholarship programme just the goal of harmonising the quality of higher not know and just start talking. This is accepts applicants that stay in Germany education in the region. The vice chancel- hardly possible in Germany. throughout their PhD. Another selection lors interacted with different European criterion was the quality of proposals countries in 2009 to compare the university written by the applicants. Unfortunately systems. As part of their support, the The benefits of membership the number of applicants is decreasing DAAD connected IUCEA with other The great advantage of a DAAD scholarship these days. One reason might be that German institutions, such as the German is that you stay connected after finishing Tanzanians shy away from going abroad Rectors' Conference (HRK), German your studies. One of my first DAAD alumni and prefer staying at home. accreditation agencies, and several German activities was to help establish the universities with strong quality assurance Tanzanian Alumni Organization. I also did systems – in particular the University of More consistent quality in higher my best to develop a government scholar- Oldenburg. education ship programme in Tanzania together with »The great advantage of a DAAD scholarship is that you stay the DAAD. Today I am part of the East Together with the DAAD and IUCEA, connected after finishing your studies.« African Quality Assurance Project. I helped establish a quality assurance
70 71 Profile: Eastern Africa and its alumni Elizabeth Sentongo
Uganda: Elizabeth Sentongo
Working for the health of Uganda «
Throughout my time in Germany, I learned Rubbing shoulders with Experiencing these Nobel laureate to appreciate situations in a totally different laureates meetings was intellectually, socially and environment and became more mindful culturally very enlightening. My professor I twice attended the Nobel Prize winners’ of how others would interpret my actions. at the time thought it was remarkable annual meetings in Lindau on Lake Con- The scholarship helped me to apply for that a student of his was invited to these stance in Bavaria. I took part in teachings jobs so I could earn a salary as a teacher, meetings. and discussions with Nobel laureates field worker or researcher. Ultimately, my from around the world, met scholars studies at high-level institutions in Nairobi from Germany and other European coun- and Hamburg enabled me to work in clinical dans from Kenya. When we applied for tries, and went on excursions to Mainau, as well as community settings and also sponsorship at DAAD’s Nairobi office, we Reichenau and other wonderful islands. perform intricate analysis in a research were informed that it was not possible for laboratory. Ugandans to obtain scholarships while in Kenya.
So we piled into long-distance overnight ‘Akamba’ and ‘Mawingo’ buses and » We piled into long-distance overnight ELIZABETH SENTONGO then lined up at the German embassy in buses and then lined up at Elizabeth Sentongo is currently a lecturer at Makerere Kampala to apply for DAAD scholarships. University’s Department of Microbiology and a I applied and obtained sponsorship from the German embassy in Kampala committee member of the Association for Ugandan German Alumni. the DAAD to study in Kenya. to apply for DAAD scholarships. « After the Master’s programme, the DAAD conducted a conference in Kam- pala in November 1991 entitled ‘Meeting the Needs of the Community’. At this Long journey to Germany event, I was one of two participants The first DAAD scholarship was not easy chosen to study in Germany. At the con- to obtain. At the time, most newly qualified ference I met Professor Dietrich W. Buet- doctors left Uganda for South Africa, tner from the Bernhard-Nocht Institute Kenya or beyond. Many of us were (BNI) for Tropical Medicine in Hamburg, working in hospitals in Kenya but wanted who proposed that I study at the BNI and to study beyond the Bachelors Degree conduct my field work in Uganda. We in Medicine and Surgery obtained at then successfully applied to the DAAD Makerere University in Uganda. I applied Sandwich Programme, making it possible for a Master’s course in Public Health for me to obtain my PhD in Hamburg. at the University of Nairobi and others »I twice attended the Nobel Prize winners’ were admitted to Master’s programmes annual meetings on Lake Constance – intel- at Kenyatta National Hospital. But in the lectually, socially and culturally a very late 1980s they started deporting Ugan- enlightening experience.«
72 73 40 years of DAAD funding
40 years of DAAD funding for German Studies in Eastern Africa
Dr. Shaban Mayanja, DAAD lecturer, University of Nairobi
The DAAD has been funding German In the 1980s and 1990s, German Studies Studies in Eastern Africa for four decades experienced low student numbers and a now. It all started with the German lack of qualified lecturers. This trend is programme at the Makerere University in now changing for the better and the Uganda, which was introduced in the numbers are on the rise. Currently, there 1970s by the first DAAD lecturer, Ingrid are eight PhD holders in German Studies, Hills. This was followed by the establish- two of whom are active in other fields. ment of a German programme at the The DAAD has funded almost 40 Master’s University of Nairobi in 1981, and the students at the University of Nairobi, some deployment of another DAAD lecturer, of whom are now working as German Hans Schlemper. lecturers at universities and the Goethe Institute. Notable DAAD German Studies German was introduced at Kenyatta Alumni in the region include Prof. Dr. University in 1987. Today German is also Manuel Muranga (Principal, Bishop Barham offered as a fully fledged Bachelor degree University College, Kabale), Dr. Catherine course at the University of Khartoum, Agoya (Head, German section, University University of Zimbabwe (Harare), Addis of Nairobi), Dr. William Wagaba (Head, Abeba University and Moi Eldoret German section, Makerere University), University in Kenya. Of late, several Dr. Auma Obama and Mr. Mohammed An Eastern African universities have started Noor (Head, German section, University of offering German as an elective. Master’s Khartoum). and PhD programmes in German Studies are offered at the University of Nairobi. The Master’s programme in Nairobi was internationalised in 2012 and now attracts The instruments the DAAD has used to applicants from other African countries. cultivate German Studies in the region Curricula reforms have also been effected include the deployment of DAAD in some universities. The first-ever regional lecturers to promote the subject, the conference on German Studies was held in provision of books in conjunction with the May 2013 − a publication of the papers Goethe Institute, and even technical presented is currently in the making. equipment. The DAAD also provides PhD scholarships for future scholars in After 40 years of active DAAD support, German Studies, university summer German Studies is now firmly established course (HSK) scholarships for outstanding in the region − and a new generation of undergraduate students, and in some young East African “Germanists” will surely cases, support for German interns who take the subject to the next level. Without a wish to do their internship in the German doubt, the future looks promising for sections of East African universities. German Studies in Eastern Africa!
74 75 www.daad.de
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