On September 28, President Soon-Heung Chang of Handong Global University and His Excellency Abadula Gemeda Dago, the Speaker of the House of the People’s Representatives, of Ethiopia looking at venues of the event.

Africa Week was co-hosted by the Office of International Affairs, the Foundation of Globalization, and the Foundation of UNESCO UNITWIN from September 26 to 30, 2016.

Handong Global University has promoted international development projects with African countries starting from HGU’s establishment. The slogan “Why not change the world” propelled students and faculty alike to practice the other school motto, “Let’s share what we have learned.”

Africa Week was prepared to introduce the distinctive culture and history of development in Africa. This went beyond the stereotypes of poverty, development and aid for Africa. There were displays, experiences, and lectures. Furthermore, the venue served as a platform to share the achievements of Handong in the fields of international development cooperation in Africa.

There were three themes for ‘AFRICA WEEK: Taste the Fullness of Africa’, ‘Africa in History’ exhibiting the people and history of Africa, and ‘Handong in Africa’.  This introduced the achievements through the international development cooperation of Handong Global University. An ‘African Film Festival’ was held.

In addition, a booth titled ‘Africa that Incubates Continents’ was provided to introduce the six regions and fifty four nations of Africa. There were many events including: the sand art booth, African word coloring, the henna experience, jewelry making, and the photo zone for picture-taking with traditional costumes. On September 28, the African food tasting event was provided for Korean and foreigners. 

In addition, the special lecture ‘The Art and Humanity of Africa’ was provided by Director Haekwang Jung, of the African Art Gallery.

After the lecture, Suyeon Kim said, “I never had the opportunity to experience the arts of Africa. This event was a great opportunity. I saw special displays and heard interesting lectures. I hope that I can have more opportunities to experience various cultures from other continents in the future.”

H.E. Abadula Gemeda Dago visiting the exhibition of Africa

After looking around, Professor Jingu Lee said, “In the past, I only knew about the mysteries and wonders of the arts of Africa indirectly. This was my first time to watch them directly. I felt a child-like pureness and innocence from the intense sun and jungle, as well as the colors of the desert. I was deeply touched. I felt this was a wonderful way to find the genuine essence of being human.”  

His Excellency Abadula Gemeda Dago, the Speaker of the House of People’s Representatives, of Ethiopia was conferred an honorary doctoral degree from Handong Global University. He enjoyed visiting all the venues with President Soon-Heung Chang of HGU.

According to Jinyoung Choi, who staffed of this event, “I want to extend my appreciation to all the people who prepared and participated in this Africa Week. I hope this event provided the opportunity to see the great potential of Africa rather than biased perspectives toward Africa.”

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