Exploring the decolonisation of knowledge in Scottish universities and cultural institutions.

Perceptions of what is considered knowledge and whose contributions are recognised have long been shaped by power.

European colonialism left a lasting legacy of Eurocentric bias, often overlooking or undervaluing contributions from Africa and other parts of the Global South. As universities increasingly examine the colonial legacies embedded in knowledge production, teaching and research, these questions are becoming more important than ever.

Through dialogue and exploration, this Curious event (comprising an interactive exhibition and a round table discussion) contributes to the ongoing efforts to decolonise knowledge within Scottish universities and popular cultural institutions such as museums and galleries.

The roundtable discussion with curators, academics, community voices and the public, explores how academic and cultural institutions shape knowledge and engage the public in addressing colonial legacies. Vistors are also invited to browse an interactive exhibition celebrating often-overlooked individuals, communities and cultures from Africa whose contributions have influenced major medical and scientific breakthroughs. The displays will also showcase ongoing decoloniality initiatives across Scottish universities and institutions, including efforts to diversify curricula and research practices.

Drop in exhibition

The exhibition will be open to view for the duration of the Curious festival (Saturday 5 - Sunday 13 September, open 12:00-18:00 daily), but you must book tickets for the roundtable.

Important points to note

This event is suitable for age 16+

Event format: This event is a workshop and may involve some audience interaction. This could involve group activities, individual activities, quizzes or hands-on activities.

Content warning: This exhibition includes themes of coloniality, empire and decoloniality.

Filming: Photography may take place at this event. Please let a member of the RSE Public Engagement team know if you do not want to be photographed.

SPEAKER

Dr. Samuel Owusu Achiaw

Research Associate, University of Glasgow

Dr Samuel Owusu Achiaw is a researcher with a clinical background in the Health Economics and Health Technology Assessment Unit at the University of Glasgow. In addition to his research, he is actively engaged in decolonial work, including initiatives to decolonise the curriculum.

SPEAKER

Dr. Teresa Abonambugre

University of Glasgow

Dr Teresa Abonambugre is an early career public health researcher with a background in epidemiology and chronic pain research. She also contributes to initiatives on decolonising health education and supports meaningful public engagement with research.

SPEAKER

Oluwatobi Oni

Information Analyst, Public Health Scotland; Honorary Research Fellow, University of Glasgow

Oluwatobi Oni is an Information Analyst at Public Health Scotland and Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Glasgow, specialising in using health data to reduce inequalities and inform policy. He also advances inclusive education through work on decolonising curricula and promoting diverse perspectives in knowledge production.

SPEAKER

Dr. Chrisine Whyte

Senior Lecturer in History, University of Glasgow

Dr Christine Whyte is a senior lecturer and global historian at the University of Glasgow, specialising in West Africa, slavery and abolition, and the histories of children and childhood. She founded the Beniba Centre for Slavery Studies and is a member of the RSE Africa Working Group.

SPEAKER

Dr. Milena Dobreva

Senior Lecturer in Information Behaviour, University of Strathclyde

Dr Milena Dobreva is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Strathclyde whose research explores innovation and digital transformation in cultural and scientific heritage sectors. Her work focuses on user behaviour, digital skills, and the societal impacts of misinformation, alongside leading initiatives in responsible digitalisation and decolonising practices within GLAM institutions.

About the Curious festival

The RSE’s free Curious festival of knowledge is back, from Saturday 5 − Sunday 13 September 2026!

Curious is Scotland’s annual festival of knowledge. Across its seven-year history, Curious has welcomed over 10,000 attendees into its yearly programme of talks, workshops, discussions and exhibitions – all covering different topics and subject areas. There’s no need for you to have any prior specialist knowledge before coming along, just bring your curious self! With plenty of events both in person and online, you can take part from anywhere.

You can check out the full programme of events here.

Accessibility

We aim to make events as accessible as possible. If you have any accessibility requirements or have any questions related to how we can support this event, please contact curious@theRSE.org.uk. Accessibility information for the RSE building can be found on our website.

Step-free access:

Description supplied by the event organiser.