UG French Department, Legon

When people are well trained, it reflects in their values, decisions, and output. At the University of Ghana, we prepare our graduates for the future by introducing them to useful tools and technologies. However, we also instill in them the aptitude for critical thinking and a firm understanding of the foundations so they do not have to be dependent on these tools. Consequently, our graduates uphold the tenets of accountability, ethics, and professionalism when they go out into the working world. As we celebrate International Translation Day this year, let's honour the people, in the classroom and on the field, who ensure trustworthy communication and intercultural dialogue are upheld. Cheers 🥂

Are you a conference interpreter 🎧 🎤 looking for a community of professionals to network and grow with? The International Association of Conference Interpreters (AIIC) Africa and Ghana Association of Translators and Interpreters (GATI) are collaborating with the UG Department of French to show you how you can join the family and access membership benefits!

Check out our Events (https://www.ug.edu.gh/french.ug/events/why-aiic-fueling-excellence-through-power-volunteering) on our website (www.ug.edu.gh/french.ug) to register and mark your calendar 📅

Did you join our session on ELEVATE 2025?

We had a discussion on "Today's ethical dilemmas in translation and how to overcome them." Mr Luke Liebzie shared his perspectives alongside other panelists and participants. One of his views was that whereas AI could be a good friend, using it without due diligence could be disastrous.

Special thanks to RWS and Nimdzi Insights and to all our amazing participants who joined the session from various parts of the world.

stay tuned to our socials for access to the recording

You can still join ELEVATE: https://hubs.ly/Q03kg5S20

🎧 Embracing the Future of Interpretation!🎙️
Ms. Pamela Amoah, Coordinator of the MA Conference Interpreting programme at the University of Ghana, continues to demonstrate her dedication to staying ahead in the interpreting profession. Her participation in the Interpreting Europe Conference 2025 organised by DG-SCIC in Brussels reflects a strong commitment to learning about the latest developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging language technologies.

From exploring the evolving role of AI in interpretation to engaging in discussions on ethics, innovation, and professional adaptation, Ms. Amoah is actively preparing to equip herself—and her students—for the future of the industry.

Her enthusiasm for learning and innovation highlights the Department of French’s vision to remain a leader in interpreter training on the continent.

🔗 Read more: https://www.ug.edu.gh/french.ug/news/commitment-innovation-and-adaptation-interpreter-training

Our spotlight for today falls on Mr Clement Owusu Ansah, recipient of the Lebanese Literature Prize for the Best Graduating Student in French for the 2023/2024 Academic Year. This award is sponsored by the Embassy of Lebanon in Ghana and awarded to an outstanding graduating B.A. French student. Before graduating, Mr Owusu-Ansah held several leadership roles as a student, including President of the French Students Association (2023/2024) and is currently a National Service Person with the Department of French.

Read more about his achievements on our website: https://www.ug.edu.gh/french.ug/news/congratulations-clement-owusu-ansah

As the month of April is coming to an end, we look back fondly on some exciting events that took place. Notable amongst them was the Francophonie Walk 2025, which took place on April 12 to commemorate Ghana’s recent elevation to full membership status in the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). If you're not learning French, you're missing out on a lot of opportunities.

Read more on our website:
https://www.ug.edu.gh/french.ug/news/francophonie-festival-2025

Success Unlocked!
We’re thrilled to celebrate the successful completion of the very first Conference Interpreting Training of Trainers short course, held from April 9–11!

This groundbreaking program brought together passionate educators and experienced interpreters, all committed to shaping the next generation of conference interpreting professionals. Over three dynamic days, participants engaged in insightful sessions, hands-on practice, and meaningful collaboration — setting the stage for stronger, more impactful interpreter training across the region.

A huge thank you to our incredible facilitators, organizers, and participants for making this inaugural edition a resounding success!

Here’s to raising the bar in interpreter education!

On 7 May 2025, our Transbureau manager and M. A. Translation lecturer Luke Liebzie will be on a panel at this year’s ELEVATE organized by Trados Technology . The panel will discuss “Today's ethical dilemmas in translation and how to overcome them”.

AI enhances productivity and speed. However, it must be used in an ethical manner and should not replace professionals. Join us at ELEVATE to address this and other important issues (6 – 8 May 2025).

Here is the link for registration: https://www.trados.com/events/elevate/ #234061

REGISTRATION IS FREE.

Special thanks to RWS for the opportunity.

We return from the Easter break with good news!👏 Our doctoral candidate Mensimah E. Appiah-Thompson (also Thompson-Kwaffo) has successfully defended her PhD thesis. Mensimah will make history as the first female PhD graduate of the Department of French.🥇 We salute her supervisors for this milestone. Congratulations Mensimah! See you at graduation. 🎉

Read more about her doctoral research here: https://www.ug.edu.gh/french.ug/news/congratulations-mensimah-e-appiah-thompson-her-successful-oral-thesis-defense

Warmest congratulations to Dr. Linda Esinam Dakey on earning her PhD in Language Practice (Translation Studies) from the University of the Free State! 🎓✨ Dr Dakey is the Coordinator of the M.A. Translation programme at the University of Ghana Department of French. Her groundbreaking research on translator education in Ghana is a major contribution to the field. We celebrate her dedication and impact! 🌍📚 Well done, Dr. Dakey!

REGISTRATION FOR CONFERENCE INTERPRETING TOT CLOSES THIS FRIDAY

Only 2 slots left! There's still time to book a place in the training so don't miss this opportunity.

Register now via this link:
https://surveyheart.com/form/67d850fdbcecc354d8250903

SHORT COURSE: CONFERENCE INTERPRETING TRAINING OF TRAINERS

Are you an interpreter trainer or conference interpreter with interest in training others? Join our 3-day certificate course designed to equip you with the tools and techniques needed for effective interpreter training.

🔹 Dates: April 9 – 11, 2025
🔹 Format: Virtual
🔹 Languages: English & French
🔹 Payment deadline: April 4, 2025

Why Enroll?
✅ Gain expertise in training both consecutive and simultaneous interpreters
✅Learn best practices, tools, and feedback techniques for effective interpreter training
✅Explore modern technology to enhance interpreter training
✅ Receive a certificate from University of Ghana upon completion

Participation Fees
🇬🇭 Local: GHS 5,000 | 🌍 International: $350

Limited slots available-Register Now
Deadline for Registration : March 28, 2025
Registration link: https://bit.ly/3DNs1I4
Contact: Ms Pamela Amoah ([email protected])

Successful registrants will receive payment information by email.

Take your interpreter training skills to the next level 🚀