Published: 25.05.2023
“Dobrý den, I am Solomon, and I am from Ghana. I have lived in the Czech Republic for a long time, and destiny will tell how long more I will live here. I always wear a smile on my face to cheer others and myself up.”
We asked Ing. Solomon Gyamfi, Ph.D. a few questions to find out what he thinks about working at our faculty and living in Pardubice.
What was the main reason for deciding to come to the Czech Republic?
I was specifically attracted to the Czech Republic to study, having compared the quality and cost of education in other EU countries.
Did you experience any culture shock when moving here?
Obviously yes! I remember my “inappropriate” greeting to an elderly person with whom I shared a basement storage within the apartment block where I was living during my master’s degree study. I did not know I had to greet with “dobrý den” not “ahoj”, so she never responded until I greeted her the right way, and until then I was shocked why my neighbour did not care. Also, having to keep up the walking pace with Czechs, wow! Amazing sense of urgency and time consciousness.
What is your position at the faculty? Could you describe it?
I am currently an assistant professor in the Institute of Economic Sciences teaching both bachelor’s and master’s degree subjects. I also engage in scientific research activities within the research team of the Science and Research Centre. I also engage in fostering international collaborative programs like the Erasmus Blended Intensive Program (BIP) as the academic coordinator.
What is the highlight of your stay here so far?
I have many of them that limited space will not permit. However, the greatest of all is the academic success so far. The understanding of the importance of being industrious and its associated rewards. The opportunity to teach and be part of a team/ family stands out. Lastly the successful collaboration for the completion of the first BIP project.
What are the benefits for your professional career of your stay at the faculty?
It is an honour to give back to my alma mater. I have received much support from all quarters of the faculty, which has provided me the opportunity to extend the needed knowledge to our amazing students while engaging in quality research with the team. I am hopeful that I will continue to learn from the astute professors while collaborating with them and developing myself to become one of the best scientists from our faculty.
What do you like most about working and living in the Czech Republic?
In the work life here in the Czech Republic, I appreciate the support from leaders and colleagues to always have the chance to improve oneself and become better in whatever field one is. The opportunity to share and learn new things with a good working environment. What I like about living in the Czech Republic is the serene environment and the discipline instilled by the Czech orientation. Location-wise, living here offers opportunity, being in the heart of Europe. However, one needs to be more adaptable to enjoy quality life here.
What was your first impression of the Czech Republic and what is it now?
Thanks to my culture shock, and the neighbour, my first impression was that Czechs are not welcoming and likable. However, I have come to realise that it is just the opposite. As Czechs are traditionally closed from the beginning, and when you gain their acceptance, you become family and receive much love. I have experienced this around me from the university to my personal life. You just need to be adaptable to feel the abundant stream of love in the country. One of the most liberal and tolerant countries in the world, with little to no danger for foreigners. It’s a very beautiful country indeed.
What do you think of Pardubice?
Calm to live in, serene and a beautiful environment with top notch transport system and connection to all parts of the Czech Republic and Europe via road and rail. Generally, it has the standard of a modern city and has the potential to become a smart one as well.
Do you have a favourite place in Pardubice?
I generally love to visit the city centre and have made several walking trips to Kunětická hora and the old castle. I also visited the aviation fair at the Pardubice airport. In terms of cuisine, I like La Cabaňa restaurant, which serves Latin and Mexican food. But I love guláš.
Besides your work, what do you do in the Czech Republic (hobbies, jobs, projects…)?
I love to visit my “Czech family” and twice a year we engage in charity work. We have been at the TyfloCentrum Pardubice twice and in Žamberk close to the Czech-Polish border. I also played in the Pardubice regional football league with some friends and enjoy hanging out with friends/colleagues and cooking Ghanaian dishes.
Do you know any Czech words?
I am proficient in Czech for the purposes of shopping and ordering food. Phrases like “ještě jednou” (once again), “nikdo” (no one), “co to je” (what is it?) and words like “kolik” (how much), “rýže” (rice), and “pivo” (beer). The Czech language is very difficult to learn but the ability to learn provides one with an enormous advantage.
Do you have any advice for anyone who is considering studying in the Czech Republic?
My advice to prospective students is simple: come with open-mindedness and zeal to gain knowledge and competence. There are more opportunities here and depending on the taste and passion of the individual, life is relatively better here and comfortable. It is all about your mindset and dreams. I will recommend to people to come to the University of Pardubice where I am, at least I can be of help to them just like I have enjoyed other people’s help throughout my stay here.
