North Columbus News

The Ohio State University has joined forces with the U.S. Army Reserve’s 412th Civil Affairs Battalion (Airborne) to provide a specialized seminar for military personnel bound for deployment to Africa. The initiative is organized by Ohio State's Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER) in conjunction with the Center for African Studies (CAS).

The seminar, hosted at the Fisher College of Business, focuses on conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and the socio-political environment of African nations where the U.S. Army Reserve will operate. "We value very much all the partnerships with different institutions across the state," stated Kaya Ṣahin, Ohio State’s vice provost for global strategies and international affairs, highlighting the unique nature of such training.

This educational effort seeks to merge Ohio State's academic expertise with the practical skills of military personnel. Ṣahin emphasized the program's significance: "We have these specialist scholars who are among the best people that we have in the nation who study Africa, and we have these people from the Ohio National Guard going to Africa. We want to make sure that they’re prepared to do the best job while there."

CAS Director Ousman Murzik Kobo expressed pride in the initiative, stating, “This seminar is, in part, the fulfillment of what we promise to do, our major mission in terms of serving the country, serving the state of Ohio, being a land-grant university. It’s also a way of demonstrating our relevance.”

Capt. Patrick MacMullen from the 412th Civil Affairs Battalion explained that the seminar fits well with the battalion's goal of enhancing service members’ global understanding: "I work hand in hand with the rest of our staff to coordinate, to make sure that these types of events are facilitated…" he said.

Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Rayan noted the benefit of gaining "a broader perspective on complex geopolitical issues" and praised the program: "I think it’s an excellent program."

Maj. Quang Nguyen reflected on the personal impact of the program, saying, "For me personally, just understanding cultural and social norms and understanding how we should comport ourselves" has been helpful, enhancing readiness for his upcoming mission.

The CAS-CIBER Africa Seminar is scheduled throughout the winter and spring months, aiming to prepare military personnel for the diverse challenges they will face in their upcoming deployment.