PADI-DG CONFERENCE 2025
PAN AFRIKAN DESIGN (PADI) /DesignGhana CONFERENCE 2025
“Uniting Creativity Across Borders”
(Education Touring and Conference Activities)
- Theme: “Designing in Afrika: Bridging Cultures, Inspiring Innovation”
- Dates: July 29-31, 2025
- Venue: Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
Programme Details
Introduction: This Design Conference focused on Education Touring and Conference Activities, aimed at fostering collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange within the Afrikan design community. It seeks to bring together designers, educators, researchers, and industry professionals from across the continent to share insights, best practices, and emerging trends in design education and practice.
Conference Tracks for Submission:
Design Pedagogy and Curriculum Development: Exploring innovative approaches to design education, curriculum design, and pedagogical strategies.
Cross-disciplinary Collaboration in Design Education, Research and Methodologies:
- Discussing the importance and methods of integrating multiple disciplines within design education.
- Presenting research methodologies, case studies, and findings relevant to design practice and education. Sustainable Design Practices: Addressing sustainability challenges and solutions within design education and practice.
Technology and Design Education:
- Examining the role of technology in design education, including digital tools, virtual reality, and online learning platforms.
Cultural Heritage and Design:
- Exploring the intersection of cultural heritage, identity, and design education in Africa.
Cultural Fusion in Design:
- Exploring the intersection of traditional African artistry with contemporary design trends.
Sustainable Design Solutions for the Built Environment:
- Examining the role of design in shaping dynamic and inclusive urban spaces across the Afrikan landscape. Addressing environmental challenges through innovative and eco-conscious design practices.
Tech and Design Integration:
- Harnessing technology to enhance the creative process and drive impactful design solutions.
Design for Social Impact:
- Showcasing projects and initiatives that use design as a tool for social change and community development.
Fashion and Textile Innovation:
- Highlighting the rich tapestry of African fashion and textile design, from traditional craftsmanship to cutting-edge innovations.
Design Thinking for Social Innovations - Catalyzing Solutions for a Better Future:
- This theme invites submissions exploring the power of Design Thinking in driving innovation and solving complex challenges. We seek papers that showcase creative, human-centered approaches across sectors, emphasizing sustainability, inclusivity, and real-world impact.
Edu-Touring Program: Kumasi and Accra (Note: Trip to Cape Coast is optional) Details to be added soon!
Conclusion: The PAN African Design Conference: Education Touring and Conference Activities aims to create a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and capacity building within the African design community. Through a combination of academic presentations, practical workshops, and cultural tours, participants will gain valuable insights, forge meaningful connections, and contribute to the advancement of design education and practice in Africa. We invite stakeholders from across the continent to join us in this exciting endeavour.
Full Paper Submission - May 25, 2025
Review Feedback - June 15, 2025
Final Submission - July 5, 2025
Research Posters - June 15, 2025
Conference Fees: $400 for international delegates outside Afrika
$300 for Afrikan delegates
Ghc800 for local delegates (25% for Design Ghana Members)
Collaborators: DesignGhana, Cumulus, ICoD, DEFSA, DESIS, etc
Partners: (All Design Schools in Ghana, Organisations, Local Design Hubs)
Accommodation:
KUMASI: Selected hotels for discounted rate will be posted in the coming days.
Delegates transiting at Accra will sleep at KNUST Guest house.
Campus Guesthouses and hostels for delegates accommodation
Private hotel at Ahinsan Estate