On April 23, 2025, the International Relations and Diplomacy Department at Tishk International University successfully organized an international workshop on ‘Acculturation, Challenges and Solutions,’ bringing together students, academics, and international experts for a day of thought-provoking dialogue and practical engagement. The workshop aimed to provide valuable insights into the issue of acculturation, its inherent challenges, and potential solutions. The moderator, Asst. Prof. Basiru Musa, delivered the opening remarks and introduced the distinguished speaker, Dr. Anna Linka from the University of Szczecin, Poland. The workshop is in line with SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

Workshop Sessions

The workshop featured two core sessions: Theoretical and Practical, each tailored to explore different dimensions of acculturation in today’s increasingly globalized world.

During the Theoretical Session, participants delved into key concepts of cultural adaptation. The discussion focused on how concepts such as culture, assimilation, marginalization, separation, and integration are used to navigate identity and belonging when interacting with new cultural environments. Discussions highlighted both the benefits and the psychological and social challenges associated with acculturation processes.

Following the academic discourse, the Practical Session offered an interactive platform where students and staff engaged in group activities, simulations, and case studies. These exercises were designed to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, allowing participants to reflect on personal experiences, cultural sensitivity, and conflict resolution in multicultural settings.

Key Outcomes and Recommendations

The workshop was attended by approximately 25 participants, including Tishk International University staff and students. The event served as a vital initiative to foster cross-cultural understanding, encourage inclusive thinking, and equip students with the skills needed for global citizenship and diplomacy. The following key recommendations were proposed:

  • Tolerance for cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity should be promoted.
  • International cooperation among states should be enhanced.
  • Integration should be encouraged.
  • Mutual respect and accommodation should be promoted.

The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks from Mr. Dana Sajadi and Mr. Bayad Sarwar Abdullah, who expressed their gratitude to the distinguished speaker, Dr. Anna Linka, for her highly impactful and timely presentation.

Keywords: Acculturation, International Workshop, Tishk International University, Dr. Anna Linka, University of Szczecin, SDG 16, Cultural Adaptation, Global Citizenship, Diplomacy, Multiculturalism, Academic Exchange, Higher Education