The objectives of this joint roundtable seminar are:

• To identify language and gender issues characteristic of different African contexts
  
• To bring together academics (particularly African academics) working on or with an interest in the area
  
• To share recent research in the area
  
• To discuss the issues raised and evaluate their academic interest and importance along with their socio-political significance
  
• To identify ways forward, in terms of future seminars (both in the UK and Africa), shared research projects, publications and networking.
  

Structure of the day

• 09.30 Introduction and welcome
  Discussion/brainstorm of the relevant issues (in groups)
  Roundtable discussion of issues
• 11.00 Sibonile Ellece: The language of Botswanan marriage ceremonies
  Questions and discussion
• 12.00 Lilian Atanga: Gendered discourses in the Cameroonian parliament
  Questions and discussion
• 13.00 Lunch
• 14.00 Topic 3: Proposals for speaker/topic are welcome
• 15.00 Review of relevant issues
• 15.30 Tea
• 16.00 The way forward: roundtable discussion

This is very much a 'roundtable' event where all participants are expected to bring a list or summary of ideas/ key issues and be prepared to discuss them. The two scheduled 'topics for discussion' will provide starting points for roundtable discussion. We would, however, encourage one additional topic. If you would like to provide and run this, please contact Sibo Ellece (s.ellece@lancs.ac.uk) and Lilian Atanga (l.atanga@lancs.ac.uk) explaining your idea before Friday Oct. 19.

If you’re interested in attending and would like further information, please contact:

John Holmes J.L.Holmes@education.leeds.ac.uk
Jane Sunderland J.Sunderland@lancs.ac.uk
Lia Litosseliti L.Litosseliti@city.ac.uk

Note: For those arriving on Friday evening there will be an informal reception.

Expected cost: Students: £5.00; Salaried staff: £10.00