Belachew Gebrewold has been Head of Department & Studies of Social Work (Bachelor) and Social Work, Social Policy & Management (Master) at MCI | The Entrepreneurial School® since 2014. In an interview under the motto “Social Work and you”, he answers some interesting questions for the Department of Social Work and invites you to get to know him and his view of Social Work.
Social Work and you - how did you start?
As head of the Social Work program at MCI, I found it exciting from the very beginning to deal with topics that are becoming increasingly important in the context of local and global change in many social areas. I was able to contribute my personal experience and academic expertise to enrich the department and the MCI in these forward-looking areas.
Who or what inspires you and why?
I am particularly inspired by social issues - such as migration, poverty, social injustice and questions of conflict and peace. These areas have always piqued my interest, as they reflect the complex challenges facing our society and require far-reaching solutions.
What did you do before you started working at the MCI?
Before I started working at the MCI, I was a lecturer at the Helmut Schmidt University in Hamburg.
What made you decide to teach and work at the MCI?
The diverse and international environment at MCI has always fascinated me. I find the broad range of topics covered here particularly inspiring, offering students valuable insights into a wide variety of subject areas. Even before my current position, I was able to gain valuable experience as an external lecturer at MCI and have since appreciated the high academic standard and intercultural atmosphere of this institution.
What is your research focus?
My research focuses on migration, peace, and conflict studies and relations between Europe and Africa. I am intensively involved with the dynamics and challenges that arise in these areas and work to develop solutions and perspectives that are important for international cooperation.
What is particularly important to you when working with students?
It is particularly important to me that students develop a deep understanding of social problems and social responsibility. In addition to practical problem-solving skills, I also attach great importance to them gaining a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical foundations and interrelationships of their field of study. The combination of theory and practice is crucial so that they can deal with relevant topics in both an analytical and application-oriented way.
What tip would you give students to successfully master their studies?
My tip would be to see studying as a valuable opportunity - as a privilege, not a burden. Studying is an important investment in your own future and at the same time a responsibility that goes far beyond the personal. It offers the opportunity to acquire knowledge and develop skills that not only shape your own path, but can also make a positive contribution to society.
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Academic timeline:
2006 – 2010
Habilitation in Political Sciences / International Relations - University of Innsbruck / University of the Federal Armed Forces Hamburg (PD Dr. Habil.)
2004 – 2005
MA Program (final part): Peace, Security, Development and International Conflict Transformation MA Thesis Title: The role of state-building in the emergence of civil militias and militarization of the societies of Sudan and Somalia. - University of Innsbruck (MA in Peace, Security, Development and International Conflict Transformation) 2003
MA Program (part II): Peace, Security, Development and International Conflict Transformation, - University of Castellón / Spain, UNESCO-Chair for Philosophy. 2002
MA Program (part I): Peace, Security, Development and International Conflict Transformation, - University of Innsbruck
1993 – 2002
Philisophy, Theologie, Internationale Politik, Peace studies - University of Innsbruck, Hamburg (Mag., MA, Dr.)
1988 – 1991
Philosophical studies - Franciscan Institute of Philosophy and Theology, Addis Abeba / Ethiopia (Diploma)
Belachew Gebrewold © MCI/Verena Schmid
Social Work | Bachelor
Social Work, Social Policy & Management | Master
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