Edo Museum of West African Art Graduate Trainee Programme

The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) presents itself as a groundbreaking regional centre for heritage management, archaeology, material science, and contemporary creativity in West Africa. Many of its research explorations are situated in the epicentre of Benin City, which was the capital of the pre-colonial Benin Empire and is currently one of the most significant archaeological sites in West Africa.

Advanced Technology and Modern Best Practices at MOWAA

Boasting of state-of-the-art technology and the application of modern best practices, the museum utilizes sophisticated tools such as geophysics, geomatics, drone photography, and Lidar in line with developer archaeology principles in its blended research and preservation projects.

This trailblazing approach allows for the meticulous recording and safeguarding of remnants from past civilizations during construction processes, a practice that is novel in the region of West Africa.

Expanding Cultural Horizons

From its base in Benin City, MOWAA sets forth to explore the broader cultural landscapes of the West Africa region. The investigations delve into the relationships between environment and human populations over time, while also creating digital records of ancient monuments and sites.

Global Collaborations and Partnerships

Working in alliance with prestigious global institutions such as the British Museum, Cambridge University, Oxford University, Wessex Archaeology, the German Archaeological Institute, and the National Commission of Museums and Monuments in Nigeria, MOWAA aims to expand academic fields, foster new connections and approaches to surviving heritage, and engage communities both locally and globally through their joint initiatives.

Introducing the Graduate Programme

In a recent announcement, MOWAA is pleased to initiate its Graduate Programme aimed at budding Field Archaeologists and Heritage Specialists. This two-year immersive programme presents a unique opportunity to become part of a dynamic team, engage in cutting-edge research using advanced technologies, and receive professional development training both within Nigeria and overseas.

Successful applicants will be privy to hands-on excavations, gain valuable field and lab experience, receive mentorship from esteemed advisors and specialists, and contribute to prestigious publications and seminars alongside renowned experts.

Desired Skills and Qualifications

MOWAA is particularly interested in candidates with proficiency in modern stratigraphic excavation and documentation, experience in processing and analyzing excavated finds, familiarity with using digital surveying equipment, competence in managing digital spatial data, ability to manipulate digitized drawings, and proficiency in systematic use of digital photography.

General requirements include degree-level qualifications in archaeology or a related discipline, fluency in English, ability to work in Nigeria, and commitment to the two-year programme, including extended periods at MOWAA’s selected sites. Applicants should also be prepared to travel within Nigeria and overseas as required for research, training and presentations.

How to Apply

The closing date for applications is the 11th of August, 2023. Interested and qualified candidates should submit their CV and a 1-page Cover Letter to careers@EMOWAA.com, using “Graduate Programme Application” as the subject of the email. More information can be accessed here.

Note to Applicants

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. MOWAA promotes equality and encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply. All enquiries should be forwarded to the aforementioned email address.

This innovative programme represents an exceptional opportunity for graduates to be at the forefront of heritage management and archaeology, shaping the future of this fascinating field through the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).