On Friday, Dr. Stephen Uche, a professor from Ann Arbor, spoke to seventh grade students from Rolland-Warner Middle School about cultural diversity, including some hands-on experiences with instruments hand-crafted by children. Dr. Uche’s program directly ties to the seventh Grade Social Studies curriculum’s study of Africa.

Dr. Uche strongly believes in giving young people a grounded and reality-based understanding of African cultures and peoples, while correcting some of the misinformation about Africa that has often been taught to many students. Much of Dr. Uche’s presentation is based on the experiences of people living in his home country, Nigeria.

He touched on art (basketry, carving and weaving), dance, storytelling, village-living and many other topics. His presentations take a different approach, using hands-on approach to inform audiences about the strength of the African family and community.

Thank you Dr. Uche for spending the day with our students!