Academic departments have been urged to engage in international collaboration and address critical issues challenging contemporary society. This call was made by members of Languages and Literature Department at DUCE during an inspiring academic seminar held on 12^th September 2024, featuring Dr. Izabela Romańczuk from the University of Warsaw (WU) in Poland. The event attracted a diverse group of enthusiastic staff members eager to engage with the presentation.

Dr. Romańczuk presented her study titled "The Swahili Novels of Tanzanian Women: Agency, Tradition, and Change." The seminar not only highlighted her insightful research but also marked a significant milestone in the ongoing academic collaboration with WU, a partnership initiated by Dr. Saul Bichwa and Prof. Beata Wójczokizy.

In her presentation, Dr. Romańczuk examined the evolving roles of Tanzanian women in literature, emphasizing how their narratives reflect gender perspectives and the intersections between tradition and modern society.

The presentation was followed by rich, thought-provoking discussions, allowing participants to delve deeper into the themes explored. Participants engaged in lively conversations about the significance of these literary works within the broader context of global literature.

In her closing remarks, the Head of Languages and Literature Department, Dr. Loveluck Phillip, emphasized the department's commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue as part of promoting linguistic and literary scholarship on a global scale. She added that such a seminar is one of many initiatives aimed at bridging cultural and academic gaps, and expressed her enthusiasm for future collaborations that will enhance the dynamic interplay between language, literature, and society.