Because we think you or someone you know would be interested in this opportunity, we at Northwestern University’s Global Engagement Summer Institute (GESI) would like to share with you the experience of a USC student who spent seven weeks during the summer of 2009 in Jinja, Uganda on our program.
GESI is a unique, credit-bearing program that combines service-learning, study abroad, cultural immersion, and invaluable international work experience at dynamic, community-based NGOs. Last summer, we were pleased to have a USC student working as a part of a group of five GESI students at the Integrated Disabled Women’s Activities (IDIWA) to revitalize IDIWA’s microfinance initiative, Iganga Disabled People’s Savings and Credit Cooperative (IDP SACCO).
In seven short weeks, the GESI team increased the capacity of the IDP SACCO through professional training and other capacity building activities, created a workplan to outline the future plans of the SACCO, and developed a curriculum for sensitizing Iganga communities on basics of microfinance which they used to train nine parishes in Namungalwe and Bulamagi sub-counties.
The group also enjoyed the opportunity to live in homestays with local families who introduced them firsthand to everyday life in Uganda. As Laura put it, the homestay “was really nice. Our parents were sweet and we loved everyone we lived with… through the homestay, I learned about the roles and responsibilities that individuals have in Ugandan society. About respect. About love, compassion.”
This year, GESI will send 11 teams like Laura’s to work in Bolivia, Nicaragua, India, and Uganda. Our sites offer incredible opportunities for students interested in public health, preserving the environment, microfinance, human rights, education, and more. Do you know a student who is interested in on-the-ground development experience?
Please feel free to forward this message and the attached flyer to appropriate listservs and students and feel free to contact us with any questions. We'd also be thrilled for any personal recommendations you may have for students who would be good candidates for our program!
Thanks in advance,
Bethany Park
Program Manager
Global Engagement Summer Institute
Center for Global Engagement
620 Library Place
Evanston, IL 60201
Northwestern University’s Global Engagement Summer Institute: A USC student’s experience in Uganda
tags:
study abroad
