Experiencing Southern Africa After an initial orientation week at Lajuma Nature Conservancy in the Soutpansberg, where students track leopards and embark on other excursions, the semester in South Africa begins at the University of Venda in Thohoyandou. The University of Venda was set up in this former independent homeland for the Venda speaking people of the Northern Province. In the midst of transformation, the University of Venda now draws students from all across South Africa. Through faculty classes, guest speakers, and field experience, students learn about regional development and the growth of South Africa s influence. The University of Venda is also an ideal site to learn about the distinct cultures of the region and rural life in South Africa.
Students also explore the natural environment as part of an experiential course.
From the University of Venda, students travel to Kruger National Park, the Sacred Lake Fundudzi, archaeological sites, villages, and indigenous forests. Students meet with officials, rangers, archaeologists, preservationists, and others to learn about these sites. Students also spend time on trails, hiking and camping as they visit more remote locations. On the way to Cape Town for the second half of the semester, students will spend two weeks on safari. During this time, the group will travel to rural KwaZulu Natal, the former Transkei and Ciskei homelands, and the Eastern and Western Cape.