MUCE welcomed Prof. Angel Ford, a distinguished researcher from the University of Albany, USA. Prof. Ford, who is an academic staff member and Director of the Global Epistemic Justice Lab in the Department of Information Sciences and Technology at the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security, and Cybersecurity (CEHC), visited MUCE from 25 to 30 July 2024. Her visit aimed to explore opportunities for collaboration in research, exchange programmes, and joint courses between the two institutions.

Key Meetings and Discussions

Meeting with the College Management

Prof. Ford's visit began with a meeting with the College Management to discuss ways in which MUCE can establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of Albany. This MOU could pave the way for collaborative research, exchange programmes, and joint initiatives, enhancing MUCE's global academic and institutional standing.

Meeting with the Faculty of Education

Led by Acting Dean Dr. Daniel Fussy, the Faculty of Education staff discussed potential joint grant and research projects with Prof. Ford. They also exchanged ideas on various collaborative activities, including the Epistemic Justice on Scholarly Communication project.

Meeting with the Department of Languages and Literature

Chaired by the Head of Internationalization and Convocation, Dr. Gervas Kawonga, this meeting focused on language laboratory facilities and potential areas for collaboration. Discussions included:

• Scaling up the project on enhancing Communicative Teaching Approach among Primary school  English teachers.

• Adapting code-switching and code-mixing involving Swahili and other Tanzanian languages in English teaching.

• Establishing a master’s programme taught collaboratively by both institutions.

Cultural Visit

During her stay, Prof. Ford also had the privilege of visiting Ruaha National Park, facilitated by the College, to experience the natural beauty of Iringa, home of MUCE.

Closing Remarks: Dr. Gervas Kawonga assured Prof. Ford that MUCE would timely implement all agreed-upon actions and maintain communication for further implementation. Prof. Ford's visit marks a significant step towards fostering international collaboration and enhancing academic excellence at MUCE.