Daniela Steenkamp

Daniela Steenkamp is a Professor at the Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University (DHBW Villingen-Schwenningen), leading the Social Work – Network and Social Space Work program. Her research focuses on children's rights, democracy education, and social work in East Africa, with a strong emphasis on human rights integration and gender equity. She actively collaborates with civil society organizations and holds leadership roles in academic networks.

Education:

• Diplom-Politologist (Political Science, Free University Berlin & University of Bologna, 2002-2007, grade: 1.5)
• Diplom-Sozialpädagogin/Sozialarbeiterin (Social Work, FH Oldenburg/Wilhelmshaven/Ostfriesland, 1995-2000, grade: 1.0)
• PhD (General Pedagogy, University of Vechta, 2016, grade: magna cum laude)

Research Interests span children's rights in education, democracy promotion, and gender-equitable approaches. She explores how digital tools and community networks enhance social work, particularly in East Africa and rural-urban disparities. Her work bridges policy advice with grassroots interventions.

Publications highlight trends in human rights education, anti-bias strategies, and democracy in schools, with a focus on Afghanistan and Tanzania case studies. Recent articles address digital participation, vocational training, and child poverty in German contexts.

Scientific Awards

• Selected for the BMBF's Professorship Programme for young female scientists

Professional Affiliations include memberships in Expert Group for Childhood Democracy Education, Scientific Advisory Board of aula, and NGOs like Xenion e.V. and Afghanistan Schools e.V.. She contributes to child-friendly communities and refugee support.