UH-GAF Hosts Africa ELTA's 2024 Conference, Showcasing Esteemed Speakers

The University of Hertfordshire, hosted by Global Academic Foundation (UH-GAF) is proud to announce its role as the host institution for the Africa English Language Teachers Association's (ELTA) 2024 conference from the 30th of May, till the 1st of June 2024. ELTA, an international regional organization, serving English language teachers and teacher associations across Africa. This prestigious event will bring together educators, researchers, and experts in the field of English language teaching to foster collaboration, professional development, and the sharing of innovative ideas.

The conference, to be held at UH-GAF's campus, will feature an impressive lineup of plenary speakers, each renowned for their contributions to the field of English language education. These esteemed speakers will provide valuable insights, perspectives, and expertise, enhancing the conference experience for attendees. The three distinguished plenary speakers for the Africa ELTA's 2024 conference are as follows:

Hanan Khalifa: An accomplished Cambridge alumna and independent researcher, Hanan Khalifa brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the conference. With a strong background in English language teaching and curriculum development, Khalifa's research focuses on innovative pedagogical approaches and strategies to enhance language learning outcomes. Her expertise will shed light on cutting-edge methodologies and best practices, inspiring educators to embrace innovative approaches in their classrooms.

Emmanuel Mfanafuthi Mgqwashu: As the Director of the Centre for Higher Education Professional Development at the Faculty of Education, North-West University in South Africa, Emmanuel Mfanafuthi Mgqwashu is a highly respected figure in the field of English language education. With a passion for promoting excellence in teaching and learning, Mgqwashu's research and expertise lie in the areas of teacher professional development, curriculum design, and instructional strategies. His plenary session will offer valuable insights into fostering effective professional development programs for English language teachers, empowering them to deliver high-quality instruction.

Amira Fawzy: Amira Fawzy, the Head of the English Language Department at the Center for Curriculum and Instructional Materials Development within the Egyptian Ministry of Education, brings a wealth of experience in educational leadership and curriculum design. With her expertise in curriculum development, instructional materials, and language assessment, Fawzy plays a vital role in shaping English language education policies in Egypt. Her plenary session will explore the importance of curriculum alignment with language proficiency standards, equipping educators with the necessary tools to design effective curricula.

These esteemed plenary speakers exemplify the conference's commitment to providing participants with a diverse range of perspectives, expertise, and innovative ideas. Their contributions to the field of English language education, coupled with their passion for empowering teachers and enhancing student learning, make them ideal choices to inspire and engage conference attendees.

The event will also feature multiple speakers for the Africa ELTA 2024 conference, which are:

Dr. Christine Coombe: Associate Professor of General Studies at Dubai Men's College, Higher Colleges of Technology. Dr. Coombe is a prolific author with publications spanning various areas such as testing/assessment, teacher professionalism and effectiveness, multilingualism in TESOL, leadership in ELT, TBLT, and research methods. She served as the Past President of the TESOL International Association (2011-2012).

Dr. Chadia Mansour: An expert in digital and distance education, applied linguistics, experiential learning, and language education. Dr. Mansour holds positions as an Executive Board Member and Chair of multiple CoPs in various professional associations. She is also an Ambassador for the International Council for Distance Education (ICDE) and a member of the OER Advocacy Committee.

Grazzia Mendoza: A researcher at the University of Wisconsin-Madison/SoE/WCER/WIDA, specializing in supporting bi/multilingualism. Mendoza's previous role as an Education Specialist at USAID Honduras, supporting the Ministry of Education, has earned her recognition from the US State Department and the TESOL International Association for her global projects, scholarship, service, and advocacy.

Dr. Shahid Abrar-ul-Hassan: A language educator, researcher, and teacher development professional with extensive international experience. Dr. Ul-Hassan is a Professor (English language and communications) at Yorkville University and serves as a TESOL Subject Expert with the British Columbia Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training in Canada.

Rasheedat Sadiq: An English Language teacher, literacy advocate, and reading coach known for her mobile library and passion for storytelling. Sadiq also conducts teacher training on learner-centered pedagogy, emphasizing the use of emotional intelligence for effective learning outcomes. She currently serves as an Academic Coordinator at ICICE Al Noor Academy in Abuja, Nigeria.

Dr. Khaled ElEbyary: A Lecturer in the Department of Education at the University of York in the UK and a member of the Centre for Advanced Studies in Language and Education (CASLE). Dr. ElEbyary has published numerous research articles on topics such as eye-tracking, written corrective feedback, automated writing evaluation, and more.

Dr. Anastasia Khawaja: An independent scholar residing in Ramallah, Palestine, focused on developing ESP and EAP English curriculum. Dr. Khawaja's research explores language representation, attitudes, and use in the context of Palestine/Israel, as well as initiatives related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. Her work can be found in the volume "Creating Classrooms for Peace in English Language Teaching."

Dr. Atta Gebril: A professor of Applied Linguistics and associate dean for graduate studies and research at The American University in Cairo (AUC). Dr. Gebril serves as the chair of the TOEFL Board of Examiners Research Sub-Committee and is involved with esteemed academic journals such as Language Assessment Quarterly and Assessing Writing. He has received several awards, including the Scopus award for his high-impact scholarship in the field of education in Egypt.

Dr. Liz England: With over 35 years of experience in professional education, publications, and service to English language teacher education, Dr. Liz England is a highly respected veteran teacher educator. Beginning her career in Cairo in 1984 at the American University in Cairo, Dr. England's expertise spans multiple projects and appointments in Egypt and other African countries. Anchored in the United States, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a rich background to the conference.

Dr. Rethabile Mawela: Serving as the President of Africa ELTA for the term of 2024-2025, Dr. Rethabile Mawela holds a Ph.D. in Education (English Language Teaching) from Rhodes University in South Africa. With 17 years of experience teaching English at the high school level and a decade as a lecturer and teacher developer, Dr. Mawela's focus lies in supporting in-service English language teachers. Her research interests revolve around the teaching of reading through storytelling and the promotion of multilingualism.

The Africa ELTA's 2024 conference at UH-GAF will create a vibrant platform for English language teachers and professionals from across Africa to exchange knowledge, share research findings, and collaborate on educational initiatives. Attendees will have the opportunity to network, attend interactive workshops, and participate in engaging discussions, ultimately contributing to the advancement of English language teaching in the region.

The University of Hertfordshire-GAF is honoured to host this prestigious event, highlighting its commitment to promoting excellence in English language education and providing a platform for meaningful dialogue and professional growth within the field. The Africa ELTA's 2024 conference at UH-GAF will create a vibrant platform for English language teachers and professionals from across Africa to exchange knowledge, share research findings, and collaborate on educational initiatives. Attendees will have the opportunity to network, attend interactive workshops, and participate in engaging discussions, ultimately contributing to the advancement of English language teaching in the region.

You can now register through this link.

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