"The
program/trip has been one of the most fulfilling events of my life."
"From
depressed areas of Johannesburg to wild game reserves in Pilanesburg to the beauty
of Cape Town, every area we visited offered an outstanding visual backdrop for
our learning experience."
"Our
trip to South Africa through GMU was amazing! You could read dozens
of books
and attend hours of lectures in the States without gaining as much insight into
the country's policy challenges as you get in just a few days of the
trip."
"The
South African study abroad program was magnificent. This program was the perfect
blend of socio/political and socio economic studies with the extra bonus of a
tremendous cultural experience. Great professors, great tour guides great country.
I highly recommend it."
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Study
in South Africa
May 23 – June 4 2011
Earn
3 credits
Course
directors:
Dr. Maxi Schoeman,
Head, Department of Political Studies, University of Pretoria,
South Africa
Thys van Schaik, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, School of Public Policy, GMU
Michal McElwain,
Director
of External Programs, School of Public Policy, GMU
South
Africa: Political, Economic, Social and Security Challenges
This study-abroad course
examines the political, economic, social and security challenges confronting South
Africa today. These include poverty alleviation, black economic empowerment, the
HIV/AIDS crisis, education, land and the environment. The course also explores
South Africa in its regional setting, with specific attention to issues such as
Zimbabwe, regional integration through SADC (Southern African Development Community),
efforts at peacekeeping and conflict resolution (Democratic Republic of Congo),
and South Africa as a continental power driving NEPA (New Partnership for Africa’s
Development). An examination of trade and investment issues affecting the country’s
international position brings a global perspective. Classes
take place in Pretoria (on the campus of the University of Pretoria) and Cape
Town (on the campus of the Business School of the University of Cape Town), with
lectures by a variety of specialists, including academics and practitioners. Formal
sessions are complemented by various site visits, governmental and non-governmental,
to encourage a more comprehensive understanding of the multi-faceted issues affecting
the country and society. The program aims to provide context for understanding
the rapid change that South Africa has experienced during the past fifteen years
and the dynamic nature of the country as Africa’s emerging powerhouse.
Application
Itinerary
2010 Syllabus (a 2011 syllabus will be posted this fall)
Frequently
Asked Questions (FAQ)
Contact
Photos
Hotels
Student
Comments/Testimonials
School
of Public Policy Study Abroad Programs
Photos
courtesy of South African Tourism
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