Death & Rebirth: Genocide & Reconstruction in Rwanda – NEW

Summer (3 weeks), 6 credits

This three-week experiential learning program focuses on the 1994 Tutsi genocide and reconstruction efforts in Rwanda.

Students travel to Kigali, Rwanda to explore the genocide in depth by visiting important sites around the country and learning about reconstruction efforts. Students meet with survivors, perpetrators of the genocide, leaders of prominent local and international nongovernmental organizations, government officials central to Rwanda's rebirth, and key stakeholders in traditionally marginalized communities. A visit to Nyamirambo district of the Ba'Twa people provides an intimate view of everyday life in traditional urban and rural communities. Two weekends in Akagera National Park and the city of Gisenyi augment the program by introducing students to Rwanda's natural beauty and ecological diversity. The program includes daily visits to sites and organizations, panel discussions, and afternoon debriefing and process sessions.

Prerequisite: No prerequisites, but priority consideration is given to juniors and seniors who are in good academic standing and have studied subjects relevant to the themes of the program and the region.