Politics of Community Development, Gender Representation, and Sustainability in Tanzania

  Tanzania

Rural Areas

Term: Throughout the year 
Dates: Summer, Semester

Description: In this course offered through West Virginia University, students will spend 4 weeks studying in Tanzania to earn 3 credits in Political Science (POLS 493, Community Development), and 3 credits in English (ENGL 285, Images of Women in Literature), while volunteering with one of three dynamic community organizations working to improve conditions for women, children, and families in Tanzania: Family Alliance for Development & Cooperation (FADECO), Women Emancipation & Development Agency (WOMEDA), and the Nyakahanga Hospital.

This course incorporates both fiction through novels by and about women and real life experience through and collaborative work with women in Tanzania which will lead to students having a broader understanding of the experiences of women around the globe. Students have the opportunity to reflect on cultural perceptions of women and the common inequities they face, while contributing to the improvement of women's rights in a developing community. Students will also experience the beauty and culture of Tanzania by attending social and recreational activities with community members and fellow students.

The service component of this course involves volunteer time at one of the Amizade partner organizations. Students will serve with these organizations on their current projects which include the construction of a children's transitional home, AIDS education initiatives, and community health research. Amizade students will work side-by-side with an impressive team of community organizers, caseworkers, hospital staff, and church members dedicated to improving people's lives.

Highlights: Tanzania will stimulate you on all levels. The beauty and warmth of its people, pleasant climate, and rich culture will constantly amaze you. The country is known throughout East Africa for having years of peaceful conditions often credited to the unifying national language of Swahili. Its distinctive, geographical beauty (Serengeti Plain & Mt. Kilimanjaro) and natural preserves (African plant and wildlife) make Tanzania a frequent destination for visitors on safari. Tanzania has also been the site of important archaeological discoveries, and is home to the Gombe Stream where Dr. Jane Goodall conducted her famous chimpanzee studies.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Qualifications: A willingness to learn and serve in a new community.

Cost in US$: 4,665 USD

Transcripts required for non-West Virginia University Students only.

We require a 25 USD application-processing fee.

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Tanzania Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 6-12

Scholarships are Available.

Application Process Involves:

• Disciplinary Clearance Form
• Essay
• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Transcript

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Amizade Global Service-Learning and Volunteer Programs's Mission Statement: Amizade inspires individuals and communities through worldwide service and learning.

Year Founded: 1994