The African Summer for Academic Development for HBCU Social Work Students was formulated as a dynamic partnership between the African Center for the Study of the United States (ACSUS), the National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW), the Wits School of Social Work, and R.P. Global. Announced in March 2024, this initiative aimed to create a transformative educational experience for students pursuing social work and adjacent majors.

Applications were open from April 1st to April 15th, 2024, inviting social work students and those from related disciplines—psychology, sociology, public health, etc.—from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) or NABSW members to apply. The program garnered significant interest, receiving fifty applications from students representing sixteen distinguished universities, including Howard University, Morgan State University, Virginia State University, Xavier University of Louisiana, Alabama State University, North Carolina A&T State University, Fayetteville State University, Southern University A&M College, Prairie View A&M University, Bennett College, Spelman College, Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College, Tulane University, Simmons University, Norfolk State University, and Ferris State University.

The African Summer for Academic Development Program brought 18 HBCU students and 2 faculty members to South Africa. Students were instructed on South African social work practices and connected with NGOs to observe these practices firsthand. They also engaged in cultural experiences, deepening their understanding of the context in which social work is practiced in South Africa.

Key Outcomes of the African Summer for Academic Development Program

1. Enhanced Academic Understanding:
   • Participants gained a deeper comprehension of social work practices within the South African context through intensive classroom instruction and hands-on learning experiences with local NGOs.
   • Students reported significant academic enrichment, particularly in understanding the systemic and community-based approaches to social work practiced in South Africa.
2. Professional Development and Networking:
   • The program facilitated robust networking opportunities, enabling students to connect with South African social work practitioners and expand their professional horizons.
   • Students developed practical skills and insights that are directly applicable to their future careers in social work, fostering a global perspective on social issues and solutions.
3. Rich Cultural Exchange:
   • Through cultural excursions to historical sites such as the Apartheid Museum and SOWETO, students engaged in meaningful cultural exchanges that deepened their appreciation and understanding of South Africa’s history and diverse communities.
   • The program promoted mutual learning and respect, encouraging participants to reflect on their cultural identities and broaden their worldviews.
4. Significant Personal Growth:
   • Participants experienced profound personal growth, often citing the program as a transformative journey that enhanced their resilience, empathy, and cultural sensitivity.
   • Many students shared personal reflections on how the program challenged their perspectives and enriched their lives in unexpected ways.
5. Positive Participant Feedback:
   • Overall feedback from the participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the program’s comprehensive approach to blending academic rigor with cultural immersion.
   • Specific elements such as the quality of instruction, the support from the resident assistant, and the balance of activities were highlighted as strengths of the program.
6. Strengthened Partnerships and Collaboration:
   • Organizers and partners gained valuable insights into the benefits of cross-cultural academic programs and identified areas for future enhancement and expansion.

As one participant expressed, “I cannot adequately express the gratitude I feel towards everyone involved in bringing this program to life. It was literally a life-changing experience and a privilege to be a part of.” Another participant noted, “It expanded my understanding of social work that moved it from theory to practical examples of how the work is done differently in South Africa.”

Students visited NGOs such as Phila Sonke Medical Initiative, Lead Change Centre for Youth With Disabilities, Avalon Residential Facility for Persons with Disabilities, Ray of Hope, Youth Opportunities, and Kliptown Youth Program. Cultural experiences included trips to Constitution Hill, Apartheid Museum, Nelson Mandela House, Waterfall City, Fourways Farmers Market, and Maboneng.

Next year, the program plans to increase the number of participants and expand into other disciplines. For more information, contact Asad el Malik at asadelmalik@gmail.com.

By Asad el Malik