Bridging education and innovation: Academic journey of David Kyei-Nuamah

english.shanghai.gov.cn| April 25, 2025
David Kyei-Nuamah.jpg
David Kyei-Nuamah. [Photo/Global Education Center of ECNU]

David Kyei-Nuamah, hailing from Ghana, recently earned his doctoral degree in education policy studies from East China Normal University. As a postdoctoral researcher at ECNU's Faculty of Education, he focuses on education policy, leadership, and the philosophy of education. His dedication to academic research has led him to present at prestigious international conferences such as the Comparative and International Education Society (CIES) and the American Educational Research Association (AERA). In addition to his research, he serves as a peer reviewer for several academic journals, actively contributing to the academic community.

Kyei-Nuamah is a staunch advocate for discipline, lifelong learning, and the proactive creation of opportunities. During an interview at ECNU, he shared highlights from his academic journey, reflecting on the experiences that have shaped his career. His journey into peer-reviewing began during his PhD, supported by his published papers and departmental backing, which opened doors to major conferences like AERA and CIES, enhancing his academic visibility.

Balancing his roles as a PhD student, peer reviewer, and researcher required a disciplined lifestyle. Kyei-Nuamah dedicates two hours every day to reading and employs strategic planning to manage his time effectively. This discipline was crucial as he successfully navigated the demands of his academic pursuits.

A pivotal moment in his academic career was co-authoring a paper in Chinese philosophy with his supervisor, Professor Peng Zhengmei. This experience sparked his interest in the philosophy of education, broadening his research horizons and deepening his understanding of educational theories.

Kyei-Nuamah views rejection not as a setback but as an opportunity for growth, drawing inspiration from professors who also face challenges. His perseverance paid off when a major publication of his was accepted after two years of revisions, underscoring his commitment to academic excellence.

Reflecting on his teaching philosophy, he emphasized the importance of adapting teaching styles to bridge the gap between education policy and classroom realities, ultimately teaching valuable social and community skills.

By integrating these insights into his work, Kyei-Nuamah continues to make a meaningful impact in the field of education, inspiring others to pursue knowledge and innovation.

 

Source: Official WeChat account of Global Education Center of ECNU at "ecnugec"