DUCE hosts the 17th Nilo-Saharan Linguistics Colloquium

The Dar es Salaam University College of Education (DUCE), through its Department of Languages and Literature, proudly hosted the 17th Nilo-Saharan Linguistics Colloquium (NISA)from 18th – 20th August 2025. The event brought together linguists and researchers across Africa, Europe and United States to share research findings and experiences on Nilo-Saharan languages.

The colloquium featured keynote addresses from distinguished scholars, including Prof. Roland Kiessling (University of Hamburg), Prof. Didier Demolin (Rhodes University), Dr. Jane Oduor (University of Nairobi) and Dr. Michael Karan (University of Dar es Salaam). These speakers provided insights that enabled participants to exchange research experiences, build networks and strengthen collaboration in the study and preservation of Nilo-Saharan languages.

In his opening remarks, the Deputy Principal (Academic, Research & Consultancy), Prof. Amani Lusekelo, highlighted DUCE’s academic programmes and international collaborations, encouraging participants to establish new partnerships with the College. 

The colloquium attracted participants from Uganda, Kenya, Somalia, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Italy, USA and Germany, thereby strengthening international research networks and promoting the preservation of under-documented Nilo-Saharan languages.

On behalf of the Local Organising Committee, Dr. Magreth John Kibiki, the Chairperson and Head of the Department of Languages and Literature expressed gratitude to staff, DUCE management and partners, including Coca-Cola Company Limited for supporting the event. 

At its core, the 17th NISA Colloquium not only advanced scholarship in Nilo-Saharan linguistics but also positioned DUCE as a hub of academic excellence and international collaboration.