BRANDON, Man. — A Brazilian academic specializing in linguistics, language studies and literature is spending the month at Brandon University as this year’s Stanley Knowles Distinguished Visiting Professor.
Dr. Karla Ferreira da Costa, an assistant professor at the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul in Brazil, is participating in a range of teaching, research and community activities during her stay. Her visit includes guest lectures and panel discussions for undergraduate and graduate students, visits to local schools and community groups, and support for Bachelor of Education research projects.
Da Costa is also working alongside Brandon University’s CARES Research Centre Director, Dr. Gustavo Moura, on ongoing research initiatives and a telecollaboration project connecting students in Brandon and Brazil.
“Dr. Costa’s visit is truly an exchange of ideas and knowledge, with students in both Brazil and Brandon benefitting from the collaboration,” Moura said. “Education and relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples are significant issues in both Canada and Brazil, and Dr. Costa brings both great perspectives and an interest in learning.”
During her time in Brandon, da Costa has been learning about local Indigenous culture by attending Truth and Reconciliation events and participating in natural dye workshops.
The visiting professor is no stranger to Manitoba. She earned her PhD in Education from the University of Manitoba and also holds a master’s degree in Letters from the University of São Paulo and an undergraduate degree in Portuguese and English studies from the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul.
Her research focuses on critical language education, decoloniality, social justice and teacher education. She currently serves as chair of the English Language and Literature Department at the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul.
Brandon University’s Dean of Education, Dr. Alysha Farrell, said the visit strengthens educational ties between Canada and Brazil while bringing new perspectives to the campus community.
Da Costa also plans to connect with colleagues at the University of Manitoba to explore research opportunities and international academic partnerships during her stay in Canada.
The Stanley Knowles Distinguished Visiting Professorship is named after Brandon University’s second chancellor and brings internationally recognized scholars to campus. The position rotates among the university’s faculties and School of Music, with visiting professors conducting work that explores Canadian and global public policy issues while benefiting both the university and the broader community.
Source: B.U. News
