Besuch an der University of Education in Winneba, Ghana

My two-week stay at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) in Ghana was a highly enriching and formative experience. As part of a growing partnership between our institutions, the visit focused on professional exchange in the areas of teaching methodology, mentoring, and institutional development. I had the opportunity to engage with faculty members, participate in academic workshops, visit local schools, and observe teacher education in a very different cultural and educational context.

The hospitality and kindness of everyone I met—both professionally and personally—left a lasting impression. I was welcomed with openness and generosity, and the high level of professionalism across departments ensured meaningful dialogue and collaboration. The programme also allowed for in-depth observations of classroom practices, including traditional frontal instruction combined with question-based development methods, large class sizes (often around 50 pupils), and visible structures of discipline and respect such as standing when responding and the wearing of uniforms.

The experience broadened my horizons: I gained new insights into international teacher education, deepened my understanding of cultural diversity, and built genuine relationships that will support future collaboration. Adapting to the English language with Fanti dialect influences, coping with the hot climate, and navigating new foods and rhythms were challenges at first—but they ultimately helped me grow and leave my comfort zone.

This mobility stay not only strengthened the institutional partnership between Lucerne and Winneba but also sparked valuable reflection on teaching practices, student engagement, and educational values. I look forward to sharing these experiences within my department and helping to shape future exchanges.

What once was fear of the unfamiliar has evolved into a genuine joy in engaging with the unknown — not fear of the unknown, but the thrill of encountering it.