Pracademics at the crossroads of theory and practice in Cameroon

• In Event: Pracademia: Impacts and Pathways

Abstract

Pragmatism establishes an inevitable relation between ideas and action in the process of knowledge. Ideas are only acceptable if they have been tested in concrete action and experience. The pracademic stands at the crossroad of this link. Apart from academic appointments, a pracademic is directly involved in the practical activities that effect social change in the communities in which he/she lives. His/her expertise is not limited to the classroom but transforms lives in communities. In order to attain this objective, he has to be passionate about social change and human development. He/she exploits Participatory Action Research in order to diagnose and resolve problems. This requires appropriate measurement in order to advocate for change, thus improving on the lives of the people. For instance, as a pracademic, I exploit multi-disciplinary skills for studies on football as silent advocate for resilience and social cohesion. To succeed, I organize football in communities. This game of soccer has helped to curb high-crime wave, minimizing drug addiction, and recruitment of youths by armed groups. Football matches prevent boredom and sedentary lifestyles. This is the involvement in real time learning and teaching as a pracademic.

Author

• VALENTINE NGALIM, The University of Bamenda