In this post, I will be giving you a rundown of the classes I am have been taking here in Dakar.
I am part of the Development Studies program where we study ideas about development specifically related to Africa. With this program, we discuss and dissect development (economic, social, political) in order to understand the challenges facing so-called developing countries. I am taking five courses, in which two are language courses. I have been really enjoying my courses so far. I have learned a lot that I know I will take back to Wellesley with me.
- First up, I am taking a French class for advanced speakers. Our French class is meant to help us refine our grammar and speaking skills. We review grammar, watch films and discuss various topics in French. I decided to go to Senegal to improve my French and so far, with the help of this class, that has been working. In addition, all my courses are taught in French.
- I am also taking a Wolof class. Wolof is the national language of Senegal and the language that most host families speak at home. Though not all people in Senegal are Wolof, most people that we interact with are/speak the language. Therefore it is important for us to learn it. Wolof is a very interesting language. It has been fun and easy to learn. I have also been having a lot of fun practicing with my host family.
- I have two electives. One is Environment and Development. This class has helped me understand some of the environmental challenges facing West African countries. As part of this class, I have been able to visit different parts of Senegal with varying landscapes to learn about everything from Mangroves, the Great Green Wall and water management. The experimental or hands-on approach of visiting the sites we discuss has been particularly helpful for me. One of the topics we discuss in this class revolves around sustainable development; a term often used in economic terms but that we see important when talking about the environment.
- Democracy and Governance is another elective that I am taking. Here we discuss democracy in African politics. What is the relationship between democracy and good governance? Furthermore, the relationship between those two and development? I have been able to fully engage in conversations about politics outside of a US-centric classroom. This class allows me to connect some of the ideas discussed in my peace and justice classes at Wellesley.
- As part of the Development Studies program, we participate in a practicum every week. The practicum is to summarize and help us talk about our experiences with our classes and internships in Dakar. This class is really to help us to make connections with other student experiences and our own. We discuss topics discussed in our classes, the things we see on the streets, at home and our own individual goals for the program.
Taking these courses in Senegal, taught by Senegalese professors has been a great experience. I am able to bring what I have learned at Wellesley and combine it with what I am learning here. Because of the different perspective of my Senegalese professors I have been able to discuss some of the same topics in a completely different way. This has made for a fulfilling experience.
until next time,
Laïssa