About DarTU PhD

Learn about our mission, history, and the team behind the DarTU PhD Colloquium System.

Our Mission

Advancing Academic Excellence

At DarTU PhD Colloquium, we are dedicated to fostering academic excellence, promoting collaborative research, and creating a supportive environment for PhD students and researchers.

Innovation

We strive to foster innovative research approaches and methodologies that push the boundaries of knowledge in various academic disciplines.

Collaboration

We believe in the power of collaborative research and knowledge sharing across institutions, countries, and academic disciplines.

Excellence

We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of academic excellence and integrity in all our research endeavors.

Our History

The Journey of DarTU PhD

From humble beginnings to a prestigious international conference, explore the evolution of the DarTU PhD Colloquium.

2010

Foundation

The DarTU PhD program was established with a focus on theological studies and historical research.

2010

Foundation

The DarTU PhD program was established with a focus on theological studies and historical research.

2015

First Colloquium

The first PhD Colloquium was organized with participation from local universities and research institutions.

2015

First Colloquium

The first PhD Colloquium was organized with participation from local universities and research institutions.

2018

International Partnerships

DarTU established partnerships with universities in Germany and Switzerland, expanding the scope of research collaboration.

2018

International Partnerships

DarTU established partnerships with universities in Germany and Switzerland, expanding the scope of research collaboration.

2020

Digital Transformation

The PhD Colloquium System was developed to facilitate online collaboration and research management.

2020

Digital Transformation

The PhD Colloquium System was developed to facilitate online collaboration and research management.

2025

International Conference

The upcoming DarTU PhD Conference and Colloquium 2025 marks a significant milestone in our journey of academic excellence.

2025

International Conference

The upcoming DarTU PhD Conference and Colloquium 2025 marks a significant milestone in our journey of academic excellence.

2025 Conference

Conference Theme

"Connected, Entangled, or Shared History? The Legacy of Colonialism and Christian Missions from Tanzanian, German and Swiss Perspectives."

In the late 19th century, German colonial conquest in East Africa began with significant violence, which quickly escalated to devastating levels. Alongside this military aggression, cultural and spiritual harm was inflicted, aiming to diminish the rich heritage and faith traditions of the local communities. Within this historical setting, the role of Christian missionaries was complex, ranging from missionaries closely collaborating with the colonial agenda, to others who saw resistance as a vital expression of their Christian faith.

The legacies of colonialism and mission work have left deep impressions on both Tanzania and Germany. These memories, passed down through generations, fluctuate between romanticized recollections and painful traumas. The physical and cultural landscapes in both countries bear the marks of this shared history, with mission-founded schools, churches, and hospitals having reshaped the religious, educational, and healthcare systems in Tanzania. Many sites connected to this era are now national monuments, serving as reminders of a challenging past that continues to influence present-day society.

This conference aims to bring together scholars, religious leaders, artists, and community leaders to explore the intertwined colonial histories of Germany and Tanzania. The focus will not be on creating a unified narrative but on identifying differing perspectives and shared experiences within these histories. Recognizing that the memories of colonizers and the colonized differ significantly, the conference seeks to understand these contrasts while fostering dialogue about the enduring impact of this period.

Discussions will also address the involvement of Christian mission organizations during the colonial era and how their legacy continues to shape modern Tanzania and Germany. Esteemed speakers from institutions such as Da es Salaam Tumaini University, the University of Dar es Salaam, the National Museum, and universities in Hamburg, Rostock, and Basel, along with representatives from churches and NGOs, will offer insights into this complex history.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about the DarTU PhD Colloquium and Conference.