South Africa: Global Health Initiative
Travel to rural South Africa, where you'll help provide crucial health resources to a community in a secluded village town.
Highlights
- Experience true cultural immersion in a rural South African community
- Shadow community health workers in a mobile health clinic
- Learn about the challenges of providing healthcare in remote areas of the African continent
- Hike the Drakensberg mountains, famous for its many peaks and magnificent scenery
- Zipline amidst the stunning natural beauty of the mountains
Overview
Despite being known for medical breakthroughs (the first heart transplant was performed here!), small rural communities still lack basic health care needs. You'll live in Geluksburg, which means "happy mountains" in rural Kwa-Zulu Natal. This rural village town, like many others, has limited resources for primary health care and basic first aid. Become accustomed to the Zulu culture as you participate in home visits, meet with the local chief and eat a traditional Zulu meal. The rolling mist and tranquility of the surrounding Drakensberg mountain peaks will make for a one-of-a-kind experience on the southern tip of the African continent.
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Community Service
South Africa has had impressive development in recent decades, but many rural areas have been left behind and do not have access to the type of medical care considered a basic necessity. Help address these basic needs by working at a grassroots level to help facilitate health assessments for local homesteads and families in a remote community. Your survey results will assist in defining the ongoing health strategy for the town going forward. You'll also teach basic health and safety measures in the homes, as well as provide families with first aid kits. Additionally, support the local mobile health clinics by learning how to record and track patient information.
Hands-On Learning
Immerse yourself in a Zulu community with home visits, dancing and drumming lessons, and a visit to a traditional healer. Meet with the local Chief to learn about Zulu culture and history. Throughout your time here, you'll see why healthcare in rural South Africa is so crucial – the access gap between urban and more remote parts of the country has a big effect on the public health system. Shadow health care workers and visit local clinics in Geluksburg, then compare and contrast the public and private health care systems. You'll also hear from experts about the obstacles people in rural South Africa face in receiving quality health care.Your Adventure is Just Around the Corner!
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Adventure
Your adventure starts on the journey to Home Base, a unique village town nestled high in the mountains. Later, hike part of the Drakensberg mountain range, known for its famous peaks and brimming with incredible waterfalls, streams, caves, crisp mountain air and spectacular views. This UNESCO World Heritage Site draws both locals and tourists from around the globe alike. You will also get the chance to go ziplining through the stunning forest canopy and enjoy a unique birds-eye view of landscapes unique to this region of South Africa.Lodging
You'll spend your first night in Johannesburg in a cozy guesthouse, and then depart as a group on day to your Home Base, a converted farmhouse nestled in a remote community. Students will stay in gender-segregated rooms with roommates, and have access to en suite bathrooms with hot water showers. Wake up every day to the amazing scenic views of the Drakensberg mountain range. This Home Base is located in the heart of the community where you’ll work on your service project.Chat with us on Facebook
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Dates & Tuition
Global Health Initiative
Duration:
Tuition:
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Capacity: Please Inquire (Minimum Group Size: 12)
Community Service
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