Timeline of African Summer Academic Development Programme for Social Work In collaboration with Wits Social Work Department, African Centre for the Study for the US, Redemption Place Global and National Association of Black Social Workers (2024)
26 June 2024
US Social Work students arrive at OR Tambo
ACSUS and Wits’ Department of Social Work welcomed our US students and faculty members to Johannesburg at OR Tambo International Airport
1 July 2024
Official Welcoming Day
We had our official welcoming day on the 1st of July where our American and South African guests met with the Director of ACSUS, Heads of the Social Work department, the School of Human and Community Development, and the Dean of Humanities
2-3 July 2024
Scholastic work at Wits University
The schedule for the social work program begins with theory and field practice sessions for all years: first-year students with Dr. Zintle Ntshongwana and Dr. Tshidi Lelaka, second-year students with Dr. Priscilla Gerrand and Ms. Muriel Dlamini, third-year students with Dr. Tlale Nathane and Dr. Emmison Muleya, and fourth-year students with Dr. Hlologelo Malatji and Dr. Tshidi Lelaka. Following a tea break, Prof. Busi Nkala-Dlamini will discuss the regulatory framework of CHE and SACSSP. Dr. Rhonda Wilbon will then cover the US social work program for all years before lunch. The afternoon includes a visit to the Origins Centre Museum. In parallel, sessions for MA programs are conducted by Dr. Samkelo Bala, Prof. Roshini Pillay, Prof. Edmarie Pretorius, and Dr. Tlale Nathane, followed by a presentation by a US representative and a discussion led by Dr. Anne Letsebe and Dr. Rhonda Wilbon.
4 July 2024
Visit to Soweto – Dobsonville, South of Johannesburg
The day’s itinerary began with departure at 08:00, traveling to Dobsonville, followed by a visit to the Phila Sonke Medical Initiative at Ekhaya Lethu Med Centre. The group will then proceed to the Lead Change – IT Skills Centre for Youth with Disabilities. The day will conclude with a lunch at Soweto Chisanyama (Barbecue), allowing everyone to enjoy a traditional barbecue in a vibrant local setting.
5 July 2024
US Facilitated Session and Discussion
The day started off with discussions about social work in the US as well as some presentations from Dr Rhonda Wilborn and Dr Kinikia Hodge. the morning session concluded with lunch, allowing all participants to relax and network.
6 July 2024
Visit to the Apartheid Museum
On Saturday, the group visited the Apartheid Museum, an essential landmark in Johannesburg that chronicles South Africa’s journey through the apartheid era. The museum offers a profound and moving experience, with exhibits detailing the harsh realities of apartheid, the struggles for freedom, and the eventual triumph of democracy. Through powerful photographs, artifacts, and personal testimonies, the group gained a deeper understanding of the impact of apartheid on the nation and its people. The visit provided a reflective space for the group to consider the importance of social justice and the ongoing efforts towards reconciliation and equality in South Africa.
8 July 2024
Tour of North Johannesburg
The group began their day with a visit to Avalon Residential Facilities for Persons with Disabilities, where they learned about the support and care provided to residents with various disabilities. They then proceeded to Rays of Hope, an organisation dedicated to uplifting and empowering disadvantaged communities. The day’s activities concluded with a visit to the Mall of Africa in Waterfall City, where the group enjoyed exploring one of the largest shopping destinations on the continent, offering a variety of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities.
10 July 2024
Visit to Constitution Hill and US Embassy in Pretoria
The group toured Constitution Hill, a historical site in Johannesburg that symbolises South Africa’s journey from oppression to democracy. They explored the former prison complex, which now serves as a museum and includes the Constitutional Court, embodying the nation’s commitment to human rights and justice. During the visit, they had the opportunity to meet with the current US Ambassador to South Africa, engaging in discussions about the enduring partnership between the two nations and the ongoing efforts to promote democracy, equality, and human rights
11 July 2024
African Cultural Exchange Farewell Session
The final day of the program began with farewell and closing remarks by Head of Social Work Department Dr Dube and Head of SHCD Prof. Sharon Moonsamy. The group then participated in a collective reflection session, sharing their experiences and insights. After a tea break, Dr. Nkosiyazi Dube provided feedback on the Wits Social Work program, followed by Dr. Rhonda Wilbon’s reflections on the US Summer School program. Dr. Asad Malik offered feedback from the African Centre for the Study of US, and Dr. Kinikia Hodge concluded with reflections from Redemption Place Global. The day wrapped up with a reporting session summarising the key takeaways and outcomes of the program.
