Archive Blog

— by nishadarryllartey Growing up, the phrase “The pen is mightier than the sword” was a mind-boggling concept. I struggled to comprehend how a pen could be compared to a sword. Wisdom comes with age, as the saying goes. Over time, I learned that this was not just a cliché; it was first coined by Edward Bulwer-Lytton, an English playwright, poet, and novelist, in his 1839 play. The phrase emphasizes the power of writing, communication, and intellectual pursuits over violence and aggression. Writers have long been regarded as powerful agents of social change. Their words inspire, educate, and mobilize people to take action. From the abolition of slavery to the civil rights movement, writers have played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and influencing social justice. Some great writers whose works have been instrumental in calling for action include: In the wake of a Saturday dawn, Amina rose early as usual to start her morning chores. As she swept the compound, a chill swept over her, sending goosebumps across her skin. Her thoughts turned to her friend, Sewabatu—a 10-year-old girl forced into the “cutting ceremony” (Female Genital Mutilation). Sewabatu had confided in Amina about her mother’s plans to initiate her, recalling the scars that served as painful reminders of her mother and grandmother’s experiences. On that fateful day, Amina witnessed Sewabatu with swollen, teary eyes, being dragged by her grandmother and mother as if she were a sheep to the slaughter. Despite the sadness etched on their faces, they were determined to proceed with the ceremony. They arrived at a small hut where “the cutter,” a stern-faced woman, was waiting with a sharp blade. Sewabatu, weary and frightened, felt “the cutter” grasp her clitoris and slice it like meat. The pain was excruciating, leaving her screaming and sobbing. She bled profusely and eventually passed out. When she regained consciousness, she realized something precious had been taken from her. Though she physically recovered, the internal scars remained—a constant reminder of her violated human rights. Waris Dirie’s memoir Desert Flower (1998) recounts her own journey from being an FGM victim to becoming a model and activist. By sharing her story, she aimed to raise awareness and encourage young girls who have suffered similar fates to fight for a better future. Writers bring attention to social issues, shedding light on injustices and sparking conversations that might otherwise remain dormant. They illustrate the outcomes of harmful practices and their health implications. Through storytelling, writers foster empathy and understanding, painting vivid mental pictures of the brutality faced by victims like Sewabatu. This narrative serves as a wake-up call, arousing emotions and detailing the negative impacts of such practices. Writers aim to present evidence and challenge negative social norms. In Sewabatu’s case, her family believed the tradition would ensure her purity and marriageability, unaware that they were jeopardizing her life. Writers can dissuade such primitive ideas and conventions, encouraging readers to question their assumptions. They present data, statistics, and expert opinions, making their arguments credible. Over 230 million girls and women have undergone FGM in 30 countries across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, with ages ranging from infancy to 15 (WHO). Amina wished she could do something to help her friend. If she became a writer, she could help others like Sewabatu. Writers create platforms for marginalized voices, providing a space for their stories and experiences to inspire change. Due to stigmatization, ethnicity, and religious factors, many victims cannot share their experiences. Writers amplify these voices, motivating those who have been victimized to become better versions of themselves. Writers also provide policy recommendations, calling for laws to prohibit FGM and hold perpetrators accountable. A comprehensive national plan is necessary to prevent FGM, support survivors, and promote community engagement. Ignorance plays a significant role in perpetuating this practice; therefore, education and community involvement are essential. All of this is possible if writers lift their pens. In summary, writers have long been powerful catalysts for social change, using their words to inspire, educate, and mobilize action. By leveraging their platforms, collaborating with activists, and raising awareness, writers can play a vital role in shaping a more just and equitable society. They make reading accessible and engaging, using techniques, clear language, and organizational tools to help readers assess credibility. Thanks to writers, societal reforms have become possible and expedited, with social media further amplifying their efforts.

— by Nichole In a world where the written word holds the power to challenge societal norms, writers have emerged as trailblazers in the fight for gender equality. From shattering stereotypes to amplifying marginalized voices, the literary landscape has become a battleground for the pursuit of true equity. Writing has always been a means of passing on information about society, history, people, and culture since time immemorial. This informed the way people reacted consciously and unconsciously to their culture and society. The fight for gender equality began through writing in the feminist period. In the early days of feminism, female writers assumed male pseudonyms. They did this to avoid gender bias and increase their chances of getting published. Later they used their works to criticize those gender stereotypes and some began to publish using their real names. Writers play a significant role in gender roles and stereotypes through their works. Perpetuating Gender Stereotypes Research shows how literature can perpetuate harmful gender stereotypes. Moula (2014) conducted a study that analyzed the prevalence of gender stereotypes in children’s literature. The study found that traditional gender roles were heavily represented. Koumakpaï’s (2016) analysis of contemporary literary genres revealed significant findings. Genres such as romance tended to reinforce traditional gender norms. They depicted women as submissive and in need of male rescue. The study also identified several common stereotypes associated with gender. For instance, women are often seen as nurturing and caring. Men, on the other hand, are perceived as dominant and aggressive. Several studies focus on analyzing gender roles in contemporary literature. They also examine the impact of gender stereotypes on readers’ perceptions and attitudes. Khanna (2024) conducted a study investigating the effects of exposure to gender stereotypes in literature on readers’ beliefs. The study found that readers of literature containing gender stereotypes tend to hold traditional gender role beliefs. These readers also exhibit stereotypical attitudes. This suggests that the portrayal of gender roles and stereotypes in literature can have real-life consequences. It can perpetuate and reinforce societal norms. Challenging Stereotypes Some portrayals of gender roles in literature are controversial. They aim to challenge societal norms and provoke discussions on gender equality. The novel “Americanah” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie provides an example. It explores the experiences of a Nigerian woman navigating love and identity in the United States. The protagonist, Ifemelu, challenges traditional expectations placed on women and questions the limitations and stereotypes imposed on her gender. (Rasmussen, 2017). This portrayal prompts readers to reflect on their own beliefs. It also encourages them to reconsider assumptions. The findings of this study also highlight regional and cultural variations in the depiction of gender roles. Similarly, an analysis by Khanna (2024) examines postcolonial literature. It reveals how authors from different regions and cultures use literature. They challenge or subvert traditional gender roles and stereotypes. Conclusion Writers have a role in shaping the perception of people regarding gender roles and stereotypes. Their opinions might differ depending on their culture. Opinions can also vary based on what region of the world they live in. These regional and cultural variations in depicting gender roles show how important it is to consider diverse perspectives. One should also think about various contexts when analyzing gender portrayal in literature. It emphasizes the need for a more inclusive and global understanding of gender roles. This involves moving beyond the limitations of a singular, Western-centric perspective. References 1. Koumakpaï, T., & Towa-Sello, K. J. (2016). Exploring Women’s Identity in Selected Charles Dickens’s Works: A re-visitation from a Contemporary African Perspective. International Journal on Studies in English Language and Literature(IJSELL) Volume, 4, 85-95. 2. Khanna, A., & Singh, R. (2024). Subverting Stereotypes: Empowerment AND Agency OF Women IN Manjula Padmanabhan’s Works. Migration Letters, 21(S5), 1306-1314. 3. Moula, E., & Kabouropoulou, M. (2014). Art and Fairy Tales in an interdisciplinary interplay: teaching interventions towards negotiation and subversion of gender roles and stereotypes. Journal for Critical Education Policy Studies (JCEPS), 12(1). 4. Rasmussen, E. E., & Densley, R. L. (2017). Girl in a Country Song: Gender roles and objectification of women in popular country music across 1990 to 2014. Sex Roles, 76,188-201.

— by otsibahbertha In today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape, keeping up with evolving educational methods is crucial. As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon to change the world.” Education is not just a fundamental human right but also a powerful tool for unlocking potential, fostering cultural understanding, and promoting global peace. Every year, on January 24th, we celebrate International Education Day, a moment to recognize the significance of education in shaping our world. Established by the UN General Assembly in December 2018, this day reminds us of the transformative power of education and how artificial intelligence (AI) is now becoming an integral part of this evolution. The Role of AI in Education AI is revolutionizing education in exciting ways, offering personalized learning experiences, improving accessibility, and increasing efficiency. Take personalized learning, for instance. Everyone is a genius, but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid. _ Albert Einstein This quote highlights the importance of tailoring education to individual needs. AI can do just that by analyzing student performance and preferences, adjusting lesson difficulty, and offering feedback to help students thrive. Beyond personalization, AI plays a critical role in creating inclusive learning environments. It provides tools such as real-time captions for those with hearing impairments, alternative communication methods for speech-impaired students, and learning aids for those with visual challenges. These features ensure that learning is more accessible and engaging for everyone. Efficiency is another area where AI shines. From automated grading systems to intelligent tutoring platforms, AI takes on repetitive tasks, allowing educators to focus on what they do best—teaching and inspiring. Programs like ALEKS and Q-interactive have already helped millions of students worldwide by adapting to their learning needs and offering insights that help educators fine-tune their teaching approaches. Addressing the Challenges While AI presents numerous benefits, it’s not without its challenges. One of the biggest concerns is data privacy. With AI systems processing vast amounts of personal information, security breaches are a real risk. It’s important to find ways to protect sensitive data while leveraging AI’s capabilities. Another challenge is the over-reliance on technology. Sure, AI can make learning more efficient, but what happens when technology fails? Moreover, excessive dependence on AI tools might limit critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are vital for personal and professional growth. Let’s not forget the importance of human interaction in education. While AI can simulate conversations and interactions, it cannot replace the warmth and motivation that human educators provide. Striking the right balance between AI assistance and human engagement is key to a well-rounded learning experience. The Importance of Human Agency Despite AI’s capabilities, maintaining human agency in education is crucial. True learning happens when students take charge of their education, develop a growth mindset, and embrace challenges. Mistakes should be seen as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. Educators have a vital role to play in guiding students to see AI as a supportive tool rather than a substitute for human effort and creativity. As Steve Harvey puts it, “We gain nothing from winning; it’s the learning journey that matters most.” This journey, filled with trials and triumphs, is what shapes resilient learners. Moving Forward: Striking the Balance So, where do we go from here? First and foremost, educators should leverage AI to streamline administrative tasks, allowing them to spend more time engaging with students. Critical thinking and creativity should remain at the heart of curricula to ensure students become independent problem-solvers. Furthermore, introducing social-emotional learning programs can help students develop essential interpersonal skills, ensuring that technology enhances, rather than replaces, meaningful human interactions. Collaborative projects that combine AI tools with teamwork and communication can be an effective way to prepare students for the future. Conclusion AI in education offers a world of opportunities, but it also comes with responsibilities. As we embrace these technological advancements, we should ask ourselves: How can we ensure that AI serves as an empowering tool rather than a hindrance to human potential? What strategies can we adopt to foster critical thinking and creativity in an automated world? And most importantly, how do we prepare both educators and students to navigate AI’s ethical implications thoughtfully? By finding the right balance, we can create an education system that not only embraces AI’s potential but also empowers individuals to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

— by Hope Koonin Highlighting lesser-known writers across the globe and throughout history whose works contributed to social change.  Social change begins with someone expressing an idea, and throughout history, many of those ideas have been expressed through literature. Some of these writers are well-remembered long after they first made an impact, but others have slipped through the cracks. Harriet Beecher Stowe and Charles Dickens may sound familiar, but what about Gwendolyn Brooks and William Apess? As cultures continue to build on positive social changes of the past, we shouldn’t forget the past writers who made an impact. Here are some less-remembered authors whose written works have contributed to positive social change. Historical Writers Who Shaped Modern Social Movements Judith Sargent Murray (1751-1820) When remembering the history of women’s rights, Judith Sargent Murray’s 1791 essay, “On the Equality of the Sexes,” shouldn’t be forgotten. Murray wrote essays, plays, and poetry under various pen names (Michals, 2015). Her essays, including “On the Equality of the Sexes,” argued against negative female stereotypes and advocated for equal education (Ertekin-Taner, 2023).  Murray’s writings inspired other women, especially American mothers, to become better educated for the sake of their children. She directly influenced a movement during her lifetime that would be known as “Republican Motherhood,” and this helped to pave the way for other female equal rights movements. Ada Lovelace (1815-1852) Ada Lovelace wrote often to Charles Babbage, a mathematician whose calculating machines laid the foundation for computers. When Lovelace translated one of his articles from French to English in 1848, she added her own comments, including the idea that Babbage’s invention could be used for more than just mathematics (Siffert, 2024). When Lovelace translated Babbage’s work and added her own notes, she preserved both her and Babbage’s ideas. When the computer science movement began in the early 1900s, Lovelace’s writings became better known, but she is still overlooked today. Even after her death, Lovelace’s writings have helped to shape the computer-rich environment we see today.  Overlooked Writers Whose Autobiographies Influenced Social Views William Apess (1798-1839) William Apess was a mixed-race Pequot writer who published the first known Native American autobiography (Oregon Public, 2003). His essays, sermons, and autobiographical works explained the then-current prejudices against Native Americans, issues within the Native American communities, and the inherent rights of Native Americans as human beings.  Apess’s writings made others more aware of the local governments’ corrupt dealings with Native American communities. His works and influence allowed him to advocate both for better treatment outside of Native American communities and improvements within Native American communities.  Frederick Douglass (1818-1895) In 1845, Frederick Douglass published his autobiography, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave. As a slave who escaped from the American South before the Civil War, Douglass was able to shed light on his experiences to a wide audience while also arguing to abolish slavery.  Douglass’s bestselling book helped to grow the number of supporters of the abolitionist movement. This movement influenced the American Civil War and its outcome of the United States deciding to end American slavery. Unsung Writers Who Preserved Culture and History Through Fiction and Poetry Zitkala-Ša (1876-1938) Zitkala-Ša was a Yankton Sioux author who translated and published Sioux myths for an English-speaking audience (Eastern Oregon, 2020). She also wrote essays and books that shared her and her tribe’s history, culture, and modern-day experiences.  Zitkala-Ša’s books gave people who were unfamiliar with Native American culture a way to learn more. Her nonfiction writings also shed light on the unfair treatment of Native Americans, which allowed her and other Native Americans to advocate strongly for equal rights (Mathias, 2022).  Gwendolyn Brooks (1917-2000) Gwendolyn Brooks was an author who influenced the American Civil Rights movement through her poetry. She used immersive, descriptive language to draw her readers into vivid images of African American life or cultural figures. Her contributions earned her a Pulitzer Prize for poetry (Boozer, 2021), but she remains overlooked today. Brooks’s poems celebrated people she wanted to emphasize as important contributors to the ongoing movement. Her poems also built on the previous foundation laid by poets and artists during the creative Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s and 1930s. Just as Brooks’s poetry was shaped by artists from previous movements, her poetry shaped artists in later movements. Remembering the Forgotten Influential Writers Whether preserving history, celebrating the present, or advocating for the future, writers have been an important driving force behind social movements in history. These are only a few of the underappreciated writers who have influenced today’s social and cultural views. Today, anyone armed with a pen and a purpose can continue to leave a mark. Without forgetting the past, the writers of today can contribute to positive social change, building on the legacy of these influential authors. Sources: Boozer, C. (2021, June 7). Creating to Inspire Social Change: A Brief Look into Gwendolyn Brooks. Library of Congress. https://blogs.loc.gov/copyright/2021/06/creating-to-inspire-social-change-a-brief-look-into-gwendolyn-brooks/. Ertekin-Taner, S. (2023, April 12). 9 Must-Read Works of Historical Protest Literature. Catalyst Planet. https://www.catalystplanet.com/travel-and-social-action-stories/9-must-read-works-of-historical-protest-literature. Eastern Oregon University. (2020, October 2). A Look at the American Literary Movements. https://online.eou.edu/resources/article/a-look-at-the-american-literary-movements/. Mathias, M. (2022). Zitkála-Šá (“Red Bird”/Gertrude Simmons Bonnin). National Women’s History Museum. https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/zitkala-sa. Michals, D. (2015). Judith Sargent Murray. National Women’s History Museum. https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/judith-sargent-murray. Oregon Public Broadcasting. (2003). “William Apess (1798-1839).” American Passages: A Literary Survey. Annenberg Learner. https://www.learner.org/series/american-passages-a-literary-survey/spirit-of-nationalism/william-apess-1798-1839/.  Siffert, A. (2024). Ada Lovelace and the First Computer Programme in the World. Max-Planck-Gesellschaft. https://www.mpg.de/female-pioneers-of-science/Ada-Lovelace.

— by maibrahimblog As the curtain falls on the tumultuous year of 2024, we find ourselves reflecting on a journey that has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. When I think of the year 2024, I think of a roller coaster ride. Then again a collection of synonyms and their antonyms come to mind; excitement and subduing, hopelessness and hopefulness, systole and diastole, ebb and flow, peaks and valleys, oscillation and vacillation; I do believe you get my gist;  “come on, you and I know what I’m talking about.” “I actually, I don’t,” replied Bret Baier of Fox News (in an interview) to Vice President Kamala Harris’ response of “Come on, you and I know what I’m talking about,” an obvious evasion of a question concerning what she thinks about the 79% respondents’ belief that the US is taking the wrong trajectory under the Biden-Harris administration, the journalist’s quick comeback exposed her. That was among my instances of vacillation, ebb, diastole, valleys, and hopelessness: I had some hope, albeit a teeny-tiny one, that the superpower of the world would have its first female president; a moment of glass-ceiling being broken, alas! it evaporated into nothingness. Further on, my lows are the continuous wars in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Sudan, the likely deterioration of Syria into another Iraq and Libya, and an ominous feeling of World War III with Iran in 2025; the detrimental effects of these wars on women and children. Thus the United Nations Foundation (2024) reiterates this concern of mine, of the devastating effects of wars on females: “And once again, wherever there is conflict, disaster, or destruction, girls and women unfairly bear the brunt.” Speaking of “brunt”, how about  Artificial Intelligence and its “brunt” on the world; influencers are creating media content that is rivaling that of mainstream media and even royals are sharing the brunt of Artificial Intelligence: Kate Middleton’s “fidgeting” with Artificial Intelligence was exposed by the eagle-eyes of her followers. Later, sadly but bravely, she told the world how she was undergoing treatment for cancer (CNN, 2024). I guess that will be her version of “coming out of the closet.” She does seem to shy away from cameras. But there is some good news for Kate: Russia has just discovered the cure for cancer: “Russia has announced a groundbreaking development in cancer treatment with the creation of an mRNA-based vaccine designed to treat cancer patients. This revolutionary vaccine is set to be launched in early 2025,..” (Business Today, 2024). Finally, the United Nations is waking up to the concept of inclusivity. For an organization that proclaims to be for everyone no matter what corner of the world, it’s a little elitist; most especially when it comes to its Security Council: imagine the elitism; permanent and non-permanent members, really? It’s a recipe for vetoing and doing as we wish. But the new kid on the block “Pact for the Future” seems promising: “The Pact lays out 56 actions across five key areas, from safeguarding peace to financing the Sustainable Development Goals to governing new frontiers in cyber- and outer space. But as Julie explains, “The central connotation of the Pact is rebuilding trust through the reform of outdated institutions.” Calls for greater representation of emerging powers and smaller nations on the Security Council grew louder this year” (United Nations Foundation, 2024). What a year 2024 has been: over sixty countries in the world went through the democratic process of elections (Pew Research Centre, 2024), not excluding the USA and Ghana.  I cannot wait to see what 2025 brings with the return of controversial President-elect, Donald Trump of the USA, and diplomatic and hope-inspiring President-elect, John Drama Mahama of Ghana. Works Cited Vice President Kamala Harris grilled on pivotal issues as election nears on ‘Special Report’. 16th October, 2024. https://www.foxnews.com/video/shows/special-report The world this week. France 24.  20th December, 2024. https://www.france24.com/en/tv-shows/the-world-this-week/20241220-the-world-this-year-2024-a-look-back-at-events Rabbitt, Megan., Altman, MJ. Year in Review: the events that shaped the UN and Our World in 2024.  United Nations Foundation. 13th December, 2024. Stalter, Brian. Year in Review: Top Media Stories of 2024. December 2024. https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/23/business/video/top-media-stories-2024-yir-stelter-pkg-digvid Massive breakthrough: Russia develops cancer vaccine, will distribute it for free from 2025. Business Today. 2024. https://www.businesstoday.in/amp/india/story/massive-breakthrough-russia-develops-cancer-vaccine-will-distribute-it-for-free-from-2025-457823-2024-12-18 Wike, Richard., Moira Fagan., Clancy, Laura., Global Elections in 2024: What We Learned in a Year of Political Disruptions. Pew Research Centre. December 11, 2024. https://www.pewresearch.org/global/2024/12/11/global-elections-in-2024-what-we-learned-in-a-year-of-political-disruption