"In Africa, when an old man dies, it is a library that burns" (Amadou Hampate Ba)

Objectives and content of the course : 
The primary objective of the course is to help students progressively discover the linguistic and cultural wealth of West Africa in a spirit of openness and intercultural dialogue. The ambition is thus to lay the foundations for a good mutual understanding of peoples and cultures in the light of universally shared values.

The course is aimed at anyone who is intrigued and curious about West African languages and cultures, whether in preparation for a trip or simply out of intellectual curiosity.

The course will cover a wide range of topics that reflect the cultural complexity of the West African region. Themes, which can be adapted according to the interest and needs of the participants, include: the ethnic diversity of the region, colonial, pre- and post-colonial history, contemporary geopolitical issues, customs and taboos, traditional medicine, local shamanism, mythology, culinary heritage, arts, and religious diversity.

Language being the first varnish of culture, participants will also be introduced to the sounds and structure of Wolof, Peuhl and Mandingo, the major languages spoken in the region. The objective is to reach a basic level of conversation adapted to daily life and travel.

Prerequisites:
Participation in the course does not require any specific linguistic or cultural knowledge.

Teacher :

The course is offered by Mamadou Guirassy, who was born and raised in Senegal, steeped in the traditions of West Africa and steeped in the music of the Wolof, Peuhl and Mandingo. Mamadou, a lawyer by training, but also a novelist and poet, now lives between France and Luxembourg and works to create and strengthen the links between Europe and West Africa, and in particular with his country of origin, Senegal.

CONTACTS:

- Teacher: Mamadou GUIRASSY (mgirassy@yahoo.fr) 

- President : Marie-Rose PREVOST (marie-rose.prevost@coe.int)