Centre for Education and Sustainable Development in Africa (CESDA): Educating for Sustainability.
Collaborating for change
In an era where global challenges such as climate change, poverty and social inequality are increasingly complex, the need for collaborative solutions has never been more pressing. This was the central theme of the enlightening guest lecture titled “Collaborating for Change,” delivered by Dr. Abiodun E. Adesina and Dr. Rasidat Ganiyu, Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo, Nigeria on 10th April, 2025.
Understanding Collaboration for Change
Abiodun and Rasidat began the lecture by defining “collaborating for change” as a process where individuals and organizations from diverse backgrounds come together to address shared challenges. They emphasized that effective collaboration is rooted in a shared vision and accountability, which are essential for creating lasting solutions.
Key Elements of Successful Collaboration
The lecture outlined several key elements that underpin successful collaboration:
- Shared Purpose: Participants must have a common goal that aligns their efforts and drives collective action.
- Inclusive Engagement: It is crucial to involve all relevant stakeholders, including marginalized groups, to ensure diverse perspectives are represented.
- Trust and Transparency: Open communication fosters trust among collaborators, which is vital for effective teamwork.
- Collective Action: Jointly pooling resources and efforts is essential for addressing complex challenges.
The Role of Participatory Approaches
A significant portion of the lecture focused on participatory approaches to community engagement. Abiodun and Rasidat explained that these methods actively involve community members in decision making processes, transforming them from passive recipients of aid into co-creators of change. This shift not only empowers communities but also leads to solutions that are more relevant and sustainable.
The speakers highlighted the principles of participatory approaches, including inclusivity, empowerment, collaboration and the incorporation of local knowledge. By engaging communities in this way, initiatives are more likely to resonate with local needs and contexts, ultimately leading to greater success.
Addressing Climate Change as a Wicked Problem
The central issue discussed was climate change, which the speakers referred to as a “wicked problem.” This term describes challenges that are complex, interconnected and resistant to straightforward solutions. Abiodun and Rasidat emphasized that addressing climate change requires collaborative efforts that span geographic and disciplinary boundaries.
They underscored the importance of adaptive strategies and ongoing engagement with communities to develop effective responses to climate related challenges. The speakers called for a collective approach that includes government representatives, industries and local communities to create comprehensive solutions.
University Industry Policy Partnerships (UIP)
A key takeaway from the lecture was the role of University-Industry-Policy partnerships (UIP) in driving climate action. Abiodun and Rasidat explained that these partnerships leverage the strengths of universities, industries and policymakers to foster innovation, promote sustainable practices and influence climate policy. By working together, these entities can create scalable and socially inclusive solutions to pressing challenges.
Conclusion
To conclude the lecture, Abiodun and Rasidat encouraged the students to reflect on their roles in fostering collaboration for change. They emphasized that the future of effective problem-solving lies in our ability to work together, share knowledge and build on each other’s strengths.
The insights shared during this guest lecture serve as a powerful reminder that collaboration is not just a strategy; it is a necessity for creating a better future. As we face increasingly complex global challenges, embracing collaboration for change will be essential in driving meaningful progress and fostering resilient communities.
In a world that often feels divided, the message from Abiodun and Rasidat is clear: together, we can create lasting change. Let us take their insights to heart and commit to working collaboratively for a brighter, more sustainable future.