The role of the social sciences has continued to inform German anthropologist Prof. Annette Dassi’s work, whose recent interest includes visiting Cebu Technological University (CTU) yet again, this time with a much broader cooperative framework in mind.
In a recent conversation with CTU’s Internationalization and ASEAN Integration (IAI) Director Dr. Rhodora Magan, Prof. Dassi expressed desire to pursue not only the amplification of the participatory development narrative but also a formal agreement with CTU and her institution in Germany, through which a mechanization of student exchange programs and broader academic mobility initiatives for both could be established.
The German author, who initially spoke with CTU San Francisco IAI chair Dr. Vincent Borres in March, hinted at enriching academic programs while promoting socially responsive education. Prof. Dassi also noted how tourism can be looped in to gravitate towards interdisciplinarity.
Beyond academic discourse, she applies social science perspectives in community-based work. In March, she worked with German veterinary professionals and San Francisco stakeholders through an animal welfare drive.
It facilitated the neutering of 69 dogs and cats, supported rescue efforts from local pounds, assisted in adoption initiatives, and involved community members in discussions on responsible pet ownership and collective welfare.
Prof. Dassi focuses on the social structures and community relationships that influence animal welfare outcomes. Her role further stabilizes the interconnectedness of human and animal well-being within shared community environments./IAI
(Photo source: Prof. Dassi)
