Three PhD students from the University of Ghana (Lloyd Larbi, Environmental science student, Kofi Adu-Manu Sarpong, Computer Science student and Edward Koomson, Environmental Science student) have visited the University of Oldenburg in Germany for a three months  study visit as part of the DEMIS project.

The study visit sponsored by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD provides opportunity for students to advance their research work and also collaborate with foreign partners for future research projects.  The students together with colleagues from Germany, Tanzania and Mozambique participated in project meetings, seminars and a doctoral workshop as well as in the project in the area of Environmental Management Information Systems. The DEMIS project organized meetings to discuss students’ research projects, project activities, time plan and relevant presentations from partner universities.. The team included Prof. Dr. Ing. Jorge Marx Gomez (Project Leader), Project Managers, Coordinators from partner countries, PhD students, and experts in the field of Environmental Management Information Systems.

A doctoral workshop was held on the September 2, 2016 where each PhD candidate presented on their research project and findings. Professors and experts from diverse backgrounds contributed significantly to enrich the works of PhD students. There were several presentations in the field of Environmental Management Information Systems exposing members to the current issues and ongoing projects in this area of study.

The team also visited the CEWE printing company which is the largest International printing company in Europe headquartered in Oldenburg. There was a guided tour of the CEWE Company where participants witnessed the printing processes from the raw materials to the finished products.

An exciting site-seeing visit to Langeoog was organized on September 3^, 2016. Langeoog is one of the island communities in the north coast of Germany. Team members had fun at the beach and also enjoyed a boat cruise on the waters. During the visit, Deutsche Welle Television (DW-TV) took coverage of doctoral students projects for a short documentary on Eco@Africa. This is an international TV programme which showcases innovative environmental management projects taking place in African countries. The video footage was covered on 20th of September and was aired on DW-TV on the 18th of October, 2016. The documentary on Eco@Africa by DW-TV can be found on http://www.dw.com/en/student-solutions-to-ghanas-water-problems/av-36037458.

The three month stay in Oldenburg, Germany provided the doctoral students the time to focus and advance their research projects. Meeting with experts from diverse backgrounds provided insightful perspectives on their project design and approach. Participating in conferences and workshops continues to build our network for future research projects. The doctoral students recommend that PhD students from the University are given such opportunities to build their network in the field of research.

Link to the DEMIS website: http://www.demis-project.org/