Prof. Dr. Corinne Gantenbein-Demarchi

Cooperation with university staff

The cooperation with the lecturers and the staff at NUST was very successful and satisfactory. The professional exchange and the competent support contributed largely to the success of the assignment. The open-minded attitude for new things, such as the practical exercises at the local hotel school restaurant and the excursion to the University UNAM, enabled the students to understand the objectives of the course – mainly to learn about the importance of food hygiene and food microbiology.

Cooperation with students

Experiencing food microbiology not only in theory but also in practical exercises was essential to establishing a positive and rewarding relationship with the students. Growing bacteria in the laboratory or checking the cleanliness of the Hotel School's restaurant with contact and swab methods were particular highlights of the course. The students are unlikely to forget their effort and creativity with their hand-painted posters showing the secrets of the spoilage of slaughtered poultry, dried meat or other food products. And as tragic as the actual food poisoning case of South Africa was with more than two hundred people being killed by sausages contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, this example from the real world helped to illustrate the importance of responsible quality testing in food processing. This was the basis of students’ success.

Despite the many pathogens and spoilage germs, the fondue happening at the end of the course showed that the students had not yet lost their appetite. Hopefully, they will remember the course for a long time.

Impact and win-win

It is a large win-win to share with the students the experience as a lecturer and as an expert in the field of food microbiology. In return to get an insight into their lives not only as a student but also into their private lives while visiting our former "guest students" was most impressive and a huge privilege.

Personal message

Meeting young people in Namibia who are eager to learn and supporting them in their education is extremely motivating. I am convinced that education is the most important and for sure the best support and help we can give these young people in Namibia.

It takes a lot of motivation and effort from all people involved in B360 education partnership, but it is worth it!

Thank you!