MOWAA Unearth: Cultivating a New Generation of West African Heritage Practitioners

The Unearth Program by the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) represents an innovative approach to archaeological education in West Africa, combining digital education tools with hands-on field experience and student-led community engagement initiatives. Conceived under the MOWAA Archaeology project, a four-year partnership with the British Museum that began in 2021, Unearth is hosted by MOWAA in Benin City and delivered in collaboration with the British Museum, Cambridge Archaeological Unit, Wessex Archaeology and the National Commission of Museums and Monuments and its partners. The pre-construction archaeology project linked to the construction of the new MOWAA Campus aims to improve understanding of the history of the Kingdom of Benin, using the latest archaeological and scientific technology and approaches. It encompasses collaborative excavations, laboratory analysis, public engagement activities with local communities and knowledge exchange program. This paper explores the integration of digital and field-based educational methodologies within the MOWAA Unearth Program, Leveraging the ONLAAH MOOC - Archaeology and Heritage of Africa on the Coursera platform developed by the German Archaeological Institute (DAI). This initiative highlights a community-centric approach, where digital technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing accessibility and engagement in archaeological education across West Africa. Results from the 2023 cohort illustrate significant advances in community involvement and the democratization of knowledge in archaeology, reflecting the successful fusion of online and on-ground educational strategies. The subsequent sections detail the program’s structure, educational outcomes, and broader impacts on the archaeological community and local stakeholders. Unearth is more than just a program; it serves as a catalyst for change, bridging disciplines and communities while celebrating West Africa's diverse cultural landscape. As we embark on this journey of discovery together, we invite you to join us in uncovering history, connecting with living traditions, and shaping a future where heritage is not only preserved by West Africans but celebrated globally.