Against All Odds

An Archaeologist's Journey in Africa

Bibliographic Data

ID19580403
AuthorsDegsew Z Mekonnen (0000-0003-4813-7703, Marymount University, corresponding author), Degsew Mekonnen
Year2025
Volume9
Pages21-36
Publication date2025-10-31
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueEx Novo Journal of Archaeology (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2531-8810 • E-ISSN: 2531-8810
PublisherArchaeopress Publishing Ltd (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.32028/exnovo-vol-9-pp.21-36
OpenAlexW4416205682
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited31

This article addresses the myriad of challenges faced by young African archaeologists. Here, we reflect on our experiences as well as those of others by focusing on the pervasive problems of inadequate mentoring, lack of funding for important professional activities such as attending conferences and publishing, as well as limited access to opportunities. This study also examines the detrimental effects of these insurmountable barriers on professional development, networking opportunities, and dissemination of knowledge within the archaeological community. In addition, we explored other relevant obstacles faced by African archaeologists in the early stages of their careers, such as limited access to resources and navigating a competitive academic landscape. By highlighting these challenges, we aim to promote a deeper understanding of the systemic issues that hinder the development and sustainability of emerging talent in paleosciences and suggest possible strategies to mitigate these barriers

Human resources · Professional development · Sustainability · Sustainable development · African cultural and philosophical studies · Archaeology and Rock Art Studies · Pleistocene-Era Hominins and Archaeology

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Open DOIOpen Access