The Guinean government has initiated a nationwide program to inventory, document, and digitize the country's cultural heritage. The project, led by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Handicrafts, aims to create a comprehensive database of Guinea's cultural assets. The program's first phase involves deploying research teams to libraries, archives, and universities in Guinea and abroad to gather existing information on the country's cultural heritage.
The research teams have started their work at the National Library of Guinea, where they are currently conducting investigations. This initial phase will help identify, catalog, and analyze documentary sources related to Guinea's cultural heritage, providing a solid scientific foundation for the program's future phases. The teams have undergone specialized training in literature review and documentary research to ensure a thorough and methodical approach.
Dr. Baldé Ismailou, Director General of the Institute of Research on Heritage in Applied Linguistics (IRPLA) and project focal point for the Ministry, explained the methodological approach used in the project. He stated that the project's success relies on a thorough literature review to assess existing research on different types of heritage. This review will help identify areas that have been extensively studied, those that have been weakly studied, and those that remain unexplored.
The project aims to equip young researchers with the skills and knowledge needed to conduct high-quality research. According to Dr. Baldé, the program will not only produce a quality inventory but also provide sustainable tools for future research. The project is seen as a strategic initiative that will contribute to the country's development and national cohesion.
Aboubacar Sidiki Condé, Director of National Culture and Historical Heritage, emphasized the project's significance, stating that it is a major initiative that will help identify and leverage Guinea's cultural heritage for national development. The project aligns with the President's priorities, which include promoting culture as a source of wealth creation and national cohesion.
Daouda Tamsir Niane, Director of the National Library of Guinea, highlighted the importance of digitizing the country's cultural heritage to preserve and transmit it to future generations. The project is part of a broader strategic vision that aims to rationalize resources, avoid duplication of efforts, and provide a platform for young researchers to develop their skills.
The project is expected to have a lasting impact on Guinea's cultural landscape, providing a comprehensive inventory of the country's cultural heritage and equipping young researchers with the skills and knowledge needed to conduct high-quality research. The initiative has been welcomed by stakeholders, who see it as a crucial step towards promoting and preserving Guinea's rich cultural heritage.
Key points
- The project aims to create a comprehensive database of Guinea's cultural assets.
- The program will provide sustainable tools for young researchers to conduct high-quality research.
- The initiative aligns with the President's priorities, which include promoting culture as a source of wealth creation and national cohesion.
