The African Summer for Academic Development Program, launched in 2024, is an innovative partnership between the African Center for the Study of the United States, the National Association of Black Social Workers, and Wits University School of Social Work. This unique program was designed to foster a deeper understanding of South Africa, a complex and racialized society, through the academic lens of each student's major or discipline. By combining rigorous academic instruction with real-world experiences, the program offers students an opportunity to engage critically with the social, cultural, and political dynamics that shape South Africa.

The inaugural program welcomed 20 social work students from prominent HBCUs, including Howard University, Morgan State University, Xavier University of Louisiana, and Alabama State University. These students were joined by their counterparts from Wits University for a two-week immersive experience in Johannesburg. The cohort engaged in an interdisciplinary curriculum that blended classroom instruction with practical field visits to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working on the frontlines of social justice and community development in South Africa.

Central to the program’s educational approach were the cultural impact visits, which allowed students to explore key historical sites that embody the struggle for freedom and equality in South Africa. Participants visited the Apartheid Museum, Nelson Mandela's House in Soweto, and Constitutional Hill, gaining firsthand insight into the country's legacy of racial segregation and its ongoing journey toward reconciliation and equality. These experiences helped students connect the theoretical frameworks learned in the classroom to the lived realities of South African society.

The African Summer for Academic Development Program is expanding its impact with the addition of a new track, developed in partnership with the Wits Business School. This second track is designed specifically for HBCU business students, offering them the chance to explore South Africa's dynamic business environment. The program introduces students to key industries such as mining, agriculture, ICT, and supply chain management, while also providing them with opportunities to connect with industry professionals and gain hands-on experience in a global context.

Through these immersive experiences, the African Summer for Academic Development Program aims to equip students with a deeper understanding of South Africa’s complexities, while helping them develop critical thinking skills and global perspectives that will enrich their academic and professional journeys. The program continues to grow, offering students from diverse fields the chance to explore how their disciplines intersect with South African society.

For more information about upcoming sessions and how to apply, please visit the program’s website.