Madagascar: National Identity and Social Change

  Madagascar

Antananarivo

Term: Fall, Spring 
Dates: September to December/February to May

Description: Madagascar is home to an amazing variety of cultures, due to its long history as a trading nexus and migratory destination for people from throughout Indonesia, Africa, and the Arabian peninsula.
Today, the 18 clans that live in this island nation retain key elements of their heritage while also sharing a common Malagasy culture and language--giving rise to the Malagasy phrase "unity amongst diversity."

Living with a family in Antananarivo, Madagascar's scenic highland capital built on the 12 sacred hills of Imerina, students gain an in-depth understanding of the domestic and external influences that have shaped Madagascar. A second homestay in Diego-Suarez, an easygoing city on the island's stunning northern tip, provides a deeper appreciation of Malagasy culture in all its variety.

Prerequisites: Three recent semesters of college-level French or equivalent and the ability to follow coursework in French, as assessed by SIT.

Highlights: Five-week homestay in Antananarivo, two weeks in Diego-Suarez, and one-week in a rural area. Educational excursions to the Ankarana Special Reserve, the island of Nosy Be, and rural Fiananrantsoa.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: contact sponsor

Experience Required: yes

Prerequisites: Three recent semesters of college-level French or equivalent and the ability to follow coursework in French, as assessed by SIT.

This Program is open to American and Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Madagascar Independently or in Groups

Scholarships are Available.

Application Process Involves:

• Essay
• Letters of Reference
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Job and Internship Network

SIT Study Abroad's Mission Statement: SIT Study Abroad is the accredited higher education institution of World Learning, a private, nonprofit international organization promoting international and intercultural understanding, social justice, and economic development through education, training, and field projects around the globe. SIT prepares students to be interculturally effective leaders, professionals, and citizens through SIT Study Abroad, undergraduate, field-based academic programs operating in more than 50 countries worldwide, and thorough short-term professional training and graduate degrees in language teaching, conflict transformation, international education, social justice in intercultural relations, management, and sustainable development.

Year Founded: 1932