RECEPTION. A night to remember in Tübingen... 

by Kudzai Ngwara

One night ONLY to present  to Tübingen, Germany a glimpse of Africa took a week of rehearsals which resulted in a glamorous reception. It was splendid evening full of colour from the different traditions presented by the students. South Africa, Botswana, Kenya and Zimbabwe were represented to give a Tubingen a feel of what it means to be African. The evening started off with remarks from to introduce our esteemed guests present by Wolfgang Mekle the Vice Provost International Affairs. Guests present were Ms. Martina Diesing from the Ministry of Science, Research and Arts BW; from the Universität Tubingen namely Prof. Dr. Monique Scheer, the Vice President for international Affairs; Mr. Axel Markert the Former Vice Provost International Affairs, Initiator of the Tubingen South Africa Program; from the South African Consulate General Munich Mr. George Monyemangene the Consul General and Ms. Lehlogonolo Sibisi the Vice Consul. Each guest got a few minutes to express their excitement about the Tubingen South Africa program's 20th anniversary. 

The students took on the stage with a chant to introduce Africa to Tübingen, which marked their arrival and presence. Like true Africans a welcoming song followed which incorporated different languages namely Deutsche, Tswana, Afrikaans, Zulu, Shins and Swahili. The languages were a representation of all the different traditions present in the room. The melodies of the song captivated the audience as it warmed up the room marking the beginning of an exchange within cultural lines. 

Introductory remarks followed by a Swahili song called Jambo, loosely translated meaning "hello". The national anthems from South Africa and Botswana were sung in different languages. The spoken word through poetry filled the room with two poems about the Africa that was informative and mind provoking to the audience. A gospel song coupled with dance got the audience clapping and swaying side to side as they enjoyed the glorious melodies. Although the language was not known to all in the room it was evident it was a thanksgiving song, in celebration of the merge of Africa and Germany. 

The 20th anniversary chocolate cake was delicious served with a variety of sandwiches coupled with an open bar. The audience gave an applause in celebration of a beautiful performance which ended in song and dance truly bringing Africa to Tubingen, Germany. A series of photo books dating from the very first group to attend the Tubingen South Africa program in the year 2000 to 2019, the current group were presented. The showcase of images and words expressed by different students signified how life changing the experience was for them. 
Tubingen South Africa Program 2019 reception marking the program’s 20th anniversary was magical signifying a true expression of the African tradition.