Thomas Friedman’s book The World Is Flat (2005) highlighted the interconnectedness of the world and the importance of sharing, collaboration, and connection to foster innovation. Reimagine the shared narrative! By showcasing how global networks can distil into the fundamental human basic, the magic and power of human connection, we may reinvent the reality. Genuine encounters between people create sustainable connections and alliances, leading to unexpected outcomes.

Networks resonate in fruitful betweenness

In the summer of 2023, the GINTL Africa network invitation from Haaga-Helia in Finland sparked a series of connections. The invitation reached several higher education institutions in South Africa, leading to a collaboration focused on education for sustainable futures. Initial online meetings between the University of Johannesburg and Haaga-Helia revealed shared passions and experiences, fostering a sense of familiarity and intimacy.

The collaboration culminated in a proposal for the Erasmus Plus Call of 2024. The process of co-creation and connection between the participants created a family-like atmosphere. The submission process was marked by tension and exhaustion, but it strengthened the bonds between the team members.

A visit to Helsinki in May 2024 further deepened these connections. The co-creators felt immediately at home with each other, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the newly established network family. Shared experiences, such as attending a graduation ceremony with students, reinforced the sense of kinship and lasting bonds.

Connection as the root for learning

The sense of interconnectedness between the educators from South Africa and Finland manifested itself in correspondence that went beyond academic writing. The fairwells were written in a poetic tone capturing reminiscence also from shared adventures in Helsinki.

There are days and then comes
One with angels and rainbow
flavors
The light so different not the
grating, dazzling melancholy of
always but the glaring grace of the
untangible that
becomes
palpable
palpitating
towards any sky
that has them
angels with rainbow flavor
Rings a Bell, doesn’t it?

– Sini Bask

The ringing bell is the magic of connection, that resonates where genuine interactions create safe spaces for individuals to be themselves. Shared experiences foster understanding and empathy, transcending strategic goals and academic pursuits. The power of human connection lies in the ability to create constellating networks of goodwill and hope, leading to sustainable solutions for the future.

Openness, collaboration, and creativity are essential for connected learning and development. The search for methods that would create a magical, connecting space for the learners the aspiration for teachers in Africa and Europa alike. The GINTL Africa network exemplifies how welcoming environments can foster growth and global community.

In conclusion, it is vital, for the global collaboration in higher education to dismantle barriers and build a future of opportunity for all. The magic of human connection is the foundation for creating a better world and better learning for future generations and us at the present.

I have no words of thanks
They all feel unworthy
So, to my fellow voyeur
My fellow sojourner of life
And rung bells and rainbows
I say until next time
When this adventure might continue

– Kathija Yassim

Picture: Shutterstock