Maiga Muga earned an MA in African Studies in 2024, focusing on education policy, digital transformation, and global education trends, particularly in the context of Tanzania and Sub-Saharan Africa. He is now a PhD student in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership; his research explores the impact of global education market dynamics and digital transformation on policy reforms in Tanzanian higher education.
Muga also serves as a graduate teaching assistant for Swahili in the Department of Linguistics, teaching Swahili language courses, mentoring students, and contributing to curriculum development.
He recently worked with the Mara Cultural Heritage Digital Archive, which he found particularly meaningful. The archive consists of audio, video, photos, transcripts, and notes from hundreds of interviews conducted in the Mara Region of Tanzania by historian Jan Bender Shetler between 1995 and 2010.
“As an intern, I contributed to the preservation of indigenous languages and culturally relevant digital content, which directly aligns with my research on digital transformation in education,” Muga said. “This experience reinforced the importance of integrating technology in a way that respects and uplifts local knowledge systems. “
Muga recently shared some of his academic experiences and offered advice to current students.
Did you study a language while a student, and if so, how did that knowledge contribute to your professional role?
Although I did not formally study a language as part of my degree, I have a background in multilingual education and teach Swahili as a graduate teaching assistant. Teaching an African language in the United States has deepened my understanding of language pedagogy, cross-cultural communication, and the role of language in disseminating culture. It has also influenced my research interests, particularly in integrating culturally relevant digital content into higher education systems to enhance student learning experiences.
What do you hope the future holds for you in terms of your career? For example, what do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
In 10 years, I plan to be a faculty member in higher education, involved in research and teaching courses on global education policy and digital transformation in education curriculum. I also aim to support policy initiatives that close the digital divide in African higher education institutions, ensuring more inclusive and culturally relevant learning experiences.
Do you have any advice for current students who might want to follow a path similar to yours?
Stay open to interdisciplinary learning and take advantage of mentorship opportunities. Graduate school can be challenging, but finding a strong support system—whether through professors, peers, or professional networks—makes a significant difference. Also, be intentional about gaining practical experience through research, teaching, or internships, as these opportunities provide valuable skills and insights for future career paths.