Fatoumatta: Gambian home-based scholars and intellectuals must embrace the ‘publish or perish’ ethos and adopt a macro rather than micro perspective to achieve global recognition like their peers, but not in obscurity.
Alagi Yorro Jallow.
I’m not very familiar with Dr. Mbye Kebba Kah. I haven’t encountered him on any social media platforms or read about his academic work, unlike Dr. Ahmad Lo. I’ve read Dr. Lo’s book, seen him several times, and followed him on social media and in the mass media. He is known for his preaching and engaging in intellectual discourse and polemics. In contrast, Dr. Kah, despite his intellect, scholarship, and knowledge, doesn’t have the same global recognition as Dr. Lo, who is renowned for his dedication to learning and intellectual public discourse.
It’s uncertain how many Gambians are familiar with Dr. Kah compared to Dr. Ahmad Lo. Dr. Ahmad Lo is known for establishing a renowned school of education, a learning center, and a mosque. The achievements of Dr. Mbye Kebba Kah in terms of building educational institutions, learning centers, mosques, or media platforms are not as well-documented, despite both having similar academic backgrounds and attending the same university. Dr. Lo seems to have a more visible legacy. Scholars and intellectuals are expected to engage in producing high-quality, impactful research, which is not merely a task but a vital contribution to their field, involving publishing in esteemed journals, contributing to significant progress, and consistently producing scholarly work.
For scholars and intellectuals, the impact of their work—especially publications in journals, books, and local newspapers, as well as participation in symposia and media appearances—is significant. Building a robust network with fellow scholars and institutions globally is also vital. Attending international conferences, participating in collaborative research, and co-authoring papers with international peers can greatly increase visibility. Moreover, a commitment to excellent teaching and student mentorship can further a scholar’s reputation. Imparting knowledge and nurturing future researchers are key to creating an enduring legacy.
Dr. Ahmad Lo maintains a media presence and utilizes social media platforms effectively. His disciples and students are prominently featured across mass media and social media, in contrast to Dr. Mbye Kebba Kah. Moreover, disseminating your research to a wider audience through public lectures, media appearances, and contributions to popular publications can enhance your visibility and influence.
For home-based scholars and intellectuals, public engagement is crucial to their work as it bridges the gap between academia and the general public. Engaging with various media platforms, such as writing op-eds, giving interviews, and leveraging social media, can greatly expand your reach. Platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube can serve as potent tools for disseminating your research and perspectives.
Additionally, delivering presentations at public events, educational institutions, and community groups is effective in spreading knowledge and promoting a culture of learning. For instance, TED Talks offer scholars a platform to engage with a worldwide audience. Collaborating with non-profits, governmental bodies, and the private sector can facilitate the practical implementation of research findings and showcase their tangible benefits. Writing for newspapers, magazines, and digital media also expands your reach to a broader audience.
Participating in public debates and discussions on pertinent issues is not merely an opportunity but also a duty that establishes you as a thought leader in your domain. Here, your voice is significant and can effect real change. Engaging in public discourse and involving the media in these conversations can shape public policy and opinion, showcasing the extent of your influence as a scholar or intellectual.
Home-based schools should participate in educational outreach initiatives like workshops, seminars, and science fairs to inspire and educate the upcoming generation, especially in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Moreover, public engagement increases visibility and ensures that research has a wider societal impact. This can open doors to new partnerships, collaborations, and funding for future endeavors. Gambian scholars and intellectuals residing in their home country should adopt the “publish or perish” principle and take a macro perspective to gain international recognition akin to their counterparts, rather than remaining in obscurity.
