Namibia and South Africa - Fall 2018 Page 1

NATION BUIDLING, GLOBALIZATION AND DECOLONIZING THE MIND

Pre-Departure Guide Fall 2018

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WELCOME FROM THE NAMIBIA TEAM

Dear Participants:

Greetings from the Namibia staff of the Center for Global Education and Experience! We are excited that you have decided to come to Namibia to participate in the program entitled “Nation Building, Globalization and Decolonizing the Mind.” Throughout the semester we will study the dynamics of so- cio-economic, political, and cultural change, and where possible use comparisons from the U.S. both to clarify and to point out the parallels between our nations and regions. All of us on the academic staff have been collaborating in planning the program and will be with you throughout the semester. The rest of the Center for Global Education and Experience (CGEE) staff in Windhoek will also be working with you and are looking forward to your arrival.

CGEE’s educational philosophy emphasizes holistic education for personal and social transfor- mation. Hence, our approach is both experiential and academically rigorous. We try to create many opportunities for you to meet with Namibians, South Africans and others who represent different view- points and sectors of society. We then encourage you to sharpen your critical thinking skills, analyze your experiences, reflect upon your emotional reactions to them, and contemplate ways in which you can act upon and apply what you have learned. This approach is consistent with Paulo Freire's philoso- phy of education which promotes social transformation and recognizes students and teachers as co- learners, in contrast to a more traditional "banking" philosophy of education, in which the teacher de- posits knowledge into the minds of passive students without ever questioning the status quo.

We strongly recommend that you read this program manual carefully, as well as do some prior reading about the region. To get a perspective on local current events, you may want to regularly log on to the web site of the local English language newspaper, The Namibian (http://www.namibian.com.na). For more regional coverage, you can log on to the Mail & Guardian (http://www.mg.co.za) from South Afri- ca. Kaffir Boy by Mark Mathabane will give you a picture of life under apartheid, and any novel by Bes- sie Head will give you valuable insights to gender roles in southern Africa. We also encourage you to read Neither Wolf nor Dog by Kent Nerburn. While the book focuses on Native Americans, the issues raised in this book are somehow similar to the issues in southern Africa, and will also enable you to make a comparison between southern Africa and the U.S.

Finally, we encourage you to bring a journal in which to record your experiences throughout the se- mester; you may wish to begin writing before you leave for Southern Africa.

Again, let us tell you how delighted we are that you will be learning with us. We look forward to meeting you.

Sincerely,

CGEE Namibia Team

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. ACADEMIC INFORMATION D. Locale & Facilities 1. Namibia A. Faculty & Staff 2. Windhoek B. Pre-Trip Reading & Book List 3. Housing 4. Library C. Academic Information 5. Time 1. Program Overview 6. Weather 2. Internship 7. Food 3. Independent Study 8. Electrical Current 4. Academic Week 5. Registration Information and Dead- E. Communication lines 1. Snail Mail 6. Program Participation 2. E-Mail and Computers 7. Assessment and Grading 3. Skype 8. Class Participation 4. Phones 9. Honesty Policy F. Extracurricular Activities /Personal Travel 10. Incomplete Grades 10. Credit and Transcripts G. Money Matters D. Related Components of the Academic I. What to Bring Program 1. Dress 1. Orientation in Johannesburg 2. Computer 2. Living/Learning Community 3. Additional Advice 3. Home-stay Program 4. Gifts 4. Seminars in South Africa 5. Luggage 6. Packing Checklist E. Tentative Calendar J. Maps & Country Information II. GENERAL INFORMATION III. APPENDICES A. Required Travel Documents A. CGEE/Augsburg University Policies B. Health & Safety B. Education for Life 1. Inoculations 2. Meningitis C. Cultural Adjustment 3. HIV/AIDS 4. Yellow Fever 5. Malaria 4. General Health Care 5. Safety Concerns 6 Insurance C. Travel Information

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CGEE FACULTY AND STAFF

Albertina N.Shifotoka- Director In 2009, Albertina worked for the Motor Vehicle Albertina is the Site Director for Accident Fund of Namibia as a senior research the Center for Global Education and data officer, responsible for coordinating the and Experience (CGEE) for Fund’s research projects and managing organiza- Southern Africa (Namibia). She tional information. provides leadership to the fac- ulty and staff at the Southern Lamont Slater - Program Coordinator and In- Africa campus and ensures the structor implementation of the Augs- Lamont Slater is an instruc- burg University policies at this tor and program coordinator campus. Albertina is the in- for the Center for Global structor for the course “Racism and Resistance in Education and Experience Southern Africa and the United States – Struggles (CGEE) for Southern Africa against Colonialism, Apartheid and Segrega- (Namibia). Lamont received tion.” She is delighted for an opportunity to join his PhD in History from Salve the CGEE team and looking forward to offer an Regina University in Rhode Island. He holds a unforgettable global experience to all our stu- Bachelor of Arts degree from Morris Brown Uni- dents, staff and faculty that will get a chance to versity in Atlanta, GA and a Masters of Arts from visit the Namibian campus. St. Edwards University in Austin, Texas. Lamont has taught various History at Quinsigamond Com- Albertina holds a Master’s Degree in Leadership munity College and Anna Maria College, relating and Change Management from the Namibia Uni- to Africa and the diaspora. He has a wealth of versity of Science and Technology, as well as a experience with teaching, student assessment, Master’s Degree in Development studies, major- student life, diversity and inclusion, and ing in population studies, poverty and social poli- knowledge of the Southern African region. His cies from the Institute of Social Studies in The dissertation was on “The Reclassification of the Hague, The Netherlands. She is further certified in Post-Colonial Enslavement period as genocide,” Econometrics and on Strategic Project Manage- which includes a study of the Herero massacre in ment. Albertina’s undergraduate degree is in Edu- Namibia by the Germans. He is also fluent in Ger- cation, with a major in adult and non-formal edu- man language. cation from the University of Namibia. Albertina worked for the University of Namibia as a re- searcher for eight years. During this time, Alber- tina conducted research studies in various areas such as Community Based Natural Resource Man- agement, urban poverty and service delivery, awareness on climate change, migration and pov- erty, political development in Southern Africa, gender-based violence and contributory factors to road crashes in Namibia, among many others.

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Alex Sikume - Program Coordinator Monika Shikongo - Part-time instructor Alex Sikume is a Program Monika Shikongo is Coordinator for the Cen- the Instructor for tre for Global Education Environment and and Experience for Sustainability Southern Africa course. Monika (Namibia). He is the In- holds a Master’s De- structor for “Political and gree in Conservation Social Change.” He holds Leadership from Colorado State University, Fort a Master’s Degree in Collins, USA. She further holds a Bachelor of Public Management ma- Technology in Nature Conservation and National joring in Policy Analysis from School of Public Poli- Diploma in Natural resources Management - Na- cy and Management, Tsinghua University, China. ture Conservation from Namibia University of He further holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree major- Science and Technology. ing in Political Science and Industrial Psychology from the University of Namibia. Monika’s current full-time employment is with the Ministry of Environment and Tourism in Na- Alex worked for the Ministry of Urban and Rural mibia, as the Chief Warden for Transfrontier Con- Development for ten years as a Development servation and Landscape Management. She serve Planner dealing with issues of local government as the Communication, Education and Public operations, administration and management. In Awareness (CEPA) focal person for Government 2011 he worked for the United Nations Develop- to the Ramsar Convention of important Wet- ment Programme as a Programme Officer. He lands. She also worked as a chief warden for En- further worked as Technical Advisor under the vironmental Education and Awareness, in the De- Building Local Capacity Project for Southern Afri- partment of Environmental Affairs. In 2008, she ca within the Management Sciences for Health. became the first woman to manage a National park in Namibia. She has been awarded several Alex has three years of experience working with conservation awards in recognition of her major the Namibia University of Science and Technology contribution to conservation of Africa natural en- teaching courses ‘Governance and Politics in Afri- vironment. ca’ and ‘Disaster Risk Management’. He also worked with the Namibia Business School of the Monika is a mother to a four year old boy. In her University of Namibia as a tutor for a work based own words, Monika indicated “I’m very grateful project course. for the opportunity to join the CGEE team in Na- mibia and looking forward to share my Alex is married and is a father of three children. knowledge with students and staff.” One boy: named Sinvula (9), and two girls: Pumu- lo (7) and Kahundu (3). Alex stated: “I am grateful for an opportunity awarded to me to work for CGEE and ready to make my contribution’.

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Mavis Muguti, Adjunct Faculty My love to bring stewardship at CGEE has started 1994, every day I came to my work I bring my Mavis is a holder of a Mas- positive energy the reason for that is I am giving ter of Arts in Philosophy my skills and flexibility. Through that I learn and which she obtained from listen every day from my co-workers as well stu- the University of Zimbabwe dents. in 2010. Before she came

to Namibia, she was sta- My duties at CGEE are to make sure to provide tioned at the Catholic Uni- healthy meals and to assure the students with versity of Zimbabwe where safe and experiential learning week with urban she was a lecturer of Ethics, Business Ethics and and rural homestay families .I always work as a Ethics for the professions. She has also worked at team. The work I do is forming my world the University of Zimbabwe as a graduate teach- throughout the years and confidently bringing ing assistant during which time she was doing her me closer to CGEEs objectives of lifelong learn- Masters studies. She has also worked at Christ ing. I am proud to be associated with CGEE in College which is an affiliate college of Great Zim- Windhoek /Namibia. babwe University and Living Waters Theological Seminary where she gained vast experience in Eveline Muukua -Assistant Chef teaching Religious studies and Philosophy cours- Eveline is originally from es. She is a mother of three. During her free time Tsumeb, a town in north- she enjoys socializing and meeting new people. ern Namibia. She was She also enjoys spending quality time with her raised in Katutura, where family. she attended primary school at Bethold Hi- Sarah Amushila - Food Service Manager/ mumuine School. Evelyn Homestay Coordinator finished her grade 10 at I was born in a town 200 km from Windhoek in A. Shipena Secondary Erongo Region called Usa- School in 1987, after which she began working at kos .I grew up with 4 broth- the Continental Hotel as a room-service chef in ers and six sisters ,we lost 1990 and a waitress afterwards. Eveline came to our brother in exile and CGEE – Namibia in 1998 as a cleaner and was sister natural death. I am hired as a chef/food service assistant in Septem- the last born. My mother is ber 2000. She also does stock control and assists late and father is alive and with house maintenance. Eveline attended a is 90 years of age. I spent my primary school days menu course in 2003 at the Polytechnic of Na- in Usakos attending at E.Goseb primary school mibia and still plans to learn more. and my high school days at Gornelius Goreseb high school in Khorixas were we sometimes are Eveline's mother language is Oshiwambo, but going for our rural homestays with CGEE stu- was raised by her stepmother and father who are dents’ am Damara /Nama speaking but has a both Otjiherero speaking. Besides Otjiherero, taste for other language and cultures .My hus- she also speaks English, and Afrikaans. In addi- band is Oshiwambo speaking at home we speak tion to cooking, Evelyn enjoys music, watching Afrikaans and English. When I am going to the TV, and spending time with her children. She is a North to visit my in-laws I speak Oshiwambo. mother of five children. They are three boys: Radley , Uazuvirua and Matunu and two girls: Kajona and Injomoka. They are three boys: Radley (27), Uazuvirua (11) and Matunu (7) and two girls: Kajona (20) and Injomoka (16).

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Passat Kakuva - Transportation Manager Lulama Moyo - International Resident Advisor Passat is originally from Lulama (Lulu) Moyo is Walvis Bay, a port town originally from Zimba- on Namibia’s South At- bwe, but grew up in lantic coast. He attended Southern Maine for a his primary school at large portion of her life. Mandume Primary She is a CGEE Namibia School in Windhoek. In alum, having participat- 1989, Passat finished his ed in the program in secondary education at Petrus Ganeb Secondary 2015. In 2016 Lulu School in Uis, a town in northeast Namibia. After gained a Bachelors of secondary school, Passat began attending classes Arts in International Development and Social for motor mechanics at the Windhoek Vocational Change with a concentration in Global Education Training Center. from Clark University. The following year, she graduated from Clark's Accelerated Master's De- Passat joined CGEE – Namibia in 2001 as a part- gree program where she studied Community De- time driver. In December 2002, Passat became a velopment and Planning and focused on the Afri- permanent employee with CGEE – Namibia as the can Diaspora and multicultural children's litera- Transportation Manager. His mother tongue is ture gap. Using her academic career to explore Oshiwambo, however he also speaks Damara, her passion of education development, she fo- Herero, Afrikaans, and English. In his spare time, cused on access advocacy, decolonizing the class- Passat enjoys watching movies, hanging out with room and curriculum, and African Diasporic friends, and traveling. achievement. As a Zimbabwean immigrant, it is important for her to use her platform to dispel Kristofina Donna Kawana- House Maintenance negative and inaccurate tropes about Africa and Assistant African cultures. As a nationally competitive slam Donna was born in Runda, Namibia and now poet, and visual artist, Lulu has also utilized art as leave in Windhoek. She grew up in Rundu (a a vehicle for education and social change: She has town about 10 hours North east of Windhoek) run art expression workshops in Eastern Cape, where she attended her primary and secondary South Africa as well as worked with at risk youth education. She lived her whole life with her par- in Worcester, MA where she taught social justice ents. Donna is a mother to a beautiful girl. Donna oriented arts workshops for youth ages 14-18. ’s mother language is Rukuangali and she also Lulu has worked with college age students for speaks English and understand Oshiwam- several years, starting with her experiences as a bo. Donna enjoys travelling, reading, and cook- Residents Assistant at her alma mater. At Clark, ing. She joined CGEE in January 2017. she also worked for the Multicultural and First Generation Students Support Office as a Gradu- ate Assistant where she mentored and advised several first year students. On the quantitative side of education advocacy, she has been a Grants Coordinator and Teacher Support Special- ist for ASSISTments which is an organization oper- ating under Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Lulu remains to be a diligent community organizer and academic and is hugely excited to be returning to Southern Africa and working with awesomely cu- rious students!

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BOOKS AND READINGS

Much of your assigned course reading will be pre-  Soweto pared in a course packet that you will receive in  Kliptown and Freedom Charter Namibia and will consist of excerpts from many  Apartheid Museum sources.  Hector Pieterson Museum  Khulumani Support Group There are a few required books for you to read.  Voortrekker Monument They are listed below, according to whether you need to read them prior to your arrival or during Recommended Readings the semester. We also highly recommend that you do some reading on Namibia/South Africa before you ar- Required Readings rive. If you come knowing nothing about the country you may feel lost during the first few To be read prior to arriving in Namibia: weeks of classes, and will not be able to fully tap While these books may not be explicitly discussed into the resources Namibia and the program have during the program, they do provide an excellent to offer. frame of reference to begin considering many of the issues which will be discussed throughout the The following are some recommended readings. semester. They provide a background and a con- Many of them are available in the CGEE resource text to allow you to begin thinking about these center in Namibia, but most students find that issues before your departure, and the connections once the program begins, they have little time for to similar issues in the United States. additional reading. If you wish to read them, it is best to check them out from a local library or pur- Barndt, J. Dismantling Racism: The Continuing chase and read them before coming. Challenge to White America. Minneapolis: Augsburg Fortress, 1991. Nerburn, Kent. Neither Wolf Nor Dog: Unforgotten Road with an Indian Elder. San Raphel, CA: New World Library, 1994. Mathabane, Mark. Kaffir Boy. New York: Penguin Books, 1986.

Recommended Pre-Trip Readings on South Africa In preparation for the programming in South Afri- ca, the following articles should be read before you arrive in Johannesburg. We will be visiting many of these places:

 On Afrikaner nationalism  Background on South Africa:  http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/ bgn/2898.htm  http://www.southafrica -travel.net/pages/ e_bevoelk.htm

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These great novels introduce culture and society Leys C. & Saul, J. Namibia’s Liberation Struggle: in Southern Africa: The Two-Edged Sword. Cape Town: James Coetzee, J.M. Disgrace. Great Britain: Vintage, Curry, 1995. 1999. Magesa, Laurenti. African Religion: The Moral Coetzee, J.M. Foe. Penguin Books, 1988. Traditions of Abundant Life. Maryknoll, New Goodman, David. Fault Lines: Journeys into the York: Orbis Books, 1997. New South Africa. California: University of Mandela, Nelson. Long Walk to Freedom. Lon- California Press, 2002. don: Little Brown and Company, 1994. Fugard, Athol. Boesman and Lena. 1969. Minow, Martha. Between Vengeance and For- Gordimer, Nadine. July’s People. Penguin Books, giveness: Facing History after Genocide and 1982. Mass Violence. Boston: Beacon Press, 1998. Dangarembga, Tsitsi. Nervous Conditions. Zimba- Noah, Trevor. Born a Crime. Canada: Doubleday, bwe: Zimbabwe Publishing House, 1988. 2016. Head, Bessie. When Rain Clouds Gather. Oxford: World Bank. Can Africa Claim the 21st Century? Heinemann, 1969. Washington: The World Bank, 2000. Magona, Sindiwe. Living, Loving, and Lying Awake at Night. South Africa: David Philips, 1991. Malan, Rian. My Traitor's Heart. Great Britain: Vintage Press, 1990. Mda, Zakes. The Madonna of Excelsior. 2005. Moodley, Praba. The Heart Knows No Col- our. Kwela Books, 2003. Paton, Alan. Cry, the Beloved Country. 1948. Vera, Yvonne. Butterfly Burning. 2000. Vera, Yvonne. Nehanda. 1994.

These non-fiction books give a good general background to Southern Africa: Biko, S. I Write What I Like. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1978. Fanon, Frantz. Black Skin, White Masks. New York: Grove Press, 1967. (Reprint of Peau noire, masques blancs. Paris, 1952). Groth, Siegfried. Namibia: The Wall of Silence. Wuppertal, Germany: Peter Hammer Verlag GmbH, 1995. Gumede, William Mervin. Thabo Mbeki and the Battle for the Soul of the ANC. Zebra Press, 2005. Henning M., ed. Re-examining Liberation in Na- mibia. Stockholm, Sweden: ElandersGotab, 2003. Katjavivi, Peter H. A History of Resistance in Na- mibia. Paris: UNESCO; London: James Currey Ltd.; Addis Ababa: Organization of African Unity, 1988.

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COURSES AND REGISTRATION

Program Overview If you wish to do an internship or independent Namibia is a society in transition. Fundamentally, study, you will have to complete the Internship it is in transition from the experience of colonial- Application questionnaire as well as indicate this ism to that of independence. Underlying that on your Course Selection questionnaire (both basic transition, however, are many other transi- found in found in your Global Gateway account). tions—from the legacy of apartheid to the build- ing of a “non-racial society” and democratic rule; Detailed course syllabi (including due dates for from an economy fully dependent on South Africa assignments) will be provided once you arrive in to multi-lateral economic relationships; from a Namibia. revolutionary movement with a policy of re- sistance to a ruling party with a policy of national Internship reconciliation; and many others. The other na- The internships are arranged in advance of your tions of the region are also in the midst of pro- arrival and the organization has made a commit- found transitions. ment to mentoring you and providing you with meaningful work. To this end, students choosing Courses to register for the internship class should also feel This semester explores the processes of the po- a similar commitment to the host organization. litical and social changes occurring in Southern Africa and is organized through the following Students registering for an internship must com- courses. Students are expected to take four of plete an application form. The internship applica- these courses, but may take only three if you pre- tion can be found on-line in your Global Gateway fer. All are worth four credits (except for the Yoga account. Requests for internships will not be pro- class) cessed without this application and a copy of your resume. All requests are subject to the ap- 1. Racism and Resistance in Southern Africa and proval of the program directors. The registration the U.S. deadline for internships is June 1. 2. Political and Social Change in Southern Africa 3. The Politics of Development in Southern Afri- After you have completed the application, an in- ca terview through skype will be arranged between 4. Religion and Social Change in Southern Africa you and the Internship Coordinator in order to 5. Environmental Connections: Environment better understand your interests in the internship and Sustainability in Southern Africa and to explain the internship program more 6. Internship clearly. After the skype interview, you will be 7. Independent Study matched with an organization with which you will 8. Yoga (one credit) do your internship. You will receive a description of the organization and the work that they do, The first five courses are interrelated and as such and be asked to sign this description in order to their activities are complimentary and interde- acknowledge that you agree to work with this pendent. Most students take history course, and organization. Once you have signed this docu- a combination of three other courses (plus the -1 ment, you will not be permitted to drop the in- credit yoga course). ternship class. You need to be prepared to make a commitment to the organization with which you will be matched.

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However, if you decide you do not want to take Some schools do not grant academic credit for the internship after the interview process, you an internship. Please check with your Study should indicate this to the Internship Coordina- Abroad Office and/or Registrar before you sign tor, and notify Margaret Anderson in the Minne- up for an internship to make sure you will get apolis office about making the change to your credit for it. course registration. Independent Study Possible placements include, but are not limited With the permission of the program coordina- to: tors, students may also engage in independent  Informal or formal education positions study for credit. Examples of independent study  Work in NGOs focusing on human rights, gen- topics include: der issues, democracy building and more  African Traditional Religions  Work in orphanages, day care centers and  Adolescent and youth issues kindergartens  Reproductive health  Work with organizations focused on Health  Gender in Namibian Society and HIV/AIDS education or service provision Students may also propose other independent Please note: in addition to working with an or- study topics to the program coordinators. If ac- ganization for 12 hours each week, the internship cepted, students may choose to earn credit in: course includes two hours of class time per  Environmental Studies (ENV) week. This class time provides opportunities for  Cross-Cultural Studies (CCS) you to demonstrate what you are learning in your  History (HIS) internship, develop professional skills, and reflect  Interdisciplinary Studies (INS) on the internship experience.  Political Science (POL)  Religion (RLN) Credit for an internship may be earned in the fol-  Women’s Studies (WST) lowing disciplines:  Environmental Studies (ENV) A proposal form is required. This can be found  Cross-Cultural Studies (CCS) on-line in your Global Gateway account. Re-  History (HIS) quests for an independent study will not be pro-  Interdisciplinary Studies (INS) cessed without this proposal. All requests are  Political Science (POL) subject to the approval of the program directors.  Religion (RLN) The deadline for proposals is July 1.  Women’s Studies (WST) The Academic Week Students who choose not to do an internship Although the days might change, the academic have the option to volunteer with a local organi- schedule for a week when you are in Windhoek zation. Volunteering is an opportunity to engage might look like the one below. There is generally with a local organization and work side by side one 4-hour course each day, during which you with Namibians. This may or may not involve will go on outings, visit organizations, hear from learning related to your specific field of community leaders, have lectures and class dis- study. There is no academic credit given for vol- cussion. Along with this are other program activ- unteering, and the relationship with the organiza- ities such as orientation, preparation, debrief tions where students volunteer is typically more sessions and language classes. casual.

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In addition to the two hours of class time, stu- dents choosing to do an internship will need to find approximately three hours per week to work with their host organization. This will either occur during the free time indicated below, or during courses for which you are not registered.

Sample Week:

Time Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Morning Environmental HIstory (9-1) Religion (9-1) Political Science Development (9-1) Connections (9-1) (9-1)

Lunch (1-2) Lunch (1-2) Lunch (1-2) Lunch (1-2) Lunch (1-2)

Afternoon Free Internship Class Free Language (2-3) Yoga Class (2-4) (2-4)

Dinner (6) Dinner (6) Dinner (6) Dinner (6) Dinner (6)

Registration Information and Deadlines Some of these opportunities are part of the pro- Center for Global Education and Experience staff gram structure (including formal classes, reflec- in Minneapolis will register you for classes based tions, assignments, family stays, travel seminars, on the information you provide in the “Course meetings with community members both within Selection” questionnaire found in your Global and outside the CGEE group, interacting in intern- Gateway account. ship and volunteer positions, etc.). Many are cre- ated by or presented to students outside these Please review your course selections before you structures. leave the U.S., and again once you arrive in Na- mibia. Any changes to your registration must be Clearly each of these types of encounters pre- made in writing, whether this is before or after the sents different perspectives, and different ways program starts. You are responsible for knowing for students to come to understand or learn more what classes you signed up for, and communi- about the society and oneself. All of these are cating any changes to your instructor(s). important and needed to enrich the program, but also are related to and complementary of each The final deadline for adding a course or to drop other. It will be the students’ challenge to take a course without a “W” (withdrawal) notation for advantage of and pursue the breadth of opportu- “withdrawn” is Friday, September 14. nities available, and to discern the types of learn- ing situations that will allow them to learn the Program Participation most from them. This is an experiential education program, and as such, the learning opportunities and learning in which students engage (knowingly and at times unknowingly) will occur in a myriad of settings and ways (formal and informal).

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Critical Thinking It also considers the economic, social, political When we think critically we become aware of the and cultural structures of a society, ultimately diversity of values, behaviors, social structure, reaching beyond issues, policies and structures to and artistic forms in the world. Through realizing the system in which all these are interrelated. this diversity, our commitments to our own val- ues, actions, and social structures are informed People are analyzing when they start asking ques- by a sense of humility; we gain an awareness that tions like: “Who made the rules influencing this others in the world have the same sense of cer- situation?” “Why do those rules and patterns go tainty we do—but ideas, values and actions that unquestioned?” “Who would benefit and who are completely contrary to our own. would lose if those rules and patters were changed?” “What happens to people who try to Reflection change the rules and patterns?” “Who has the Reflection involves looking back, and thinking resources or claims authority in this situation?” carefully about one's experience to understand it more thoroughly from a vantage of being to some Assessment and Grades degree (spatially, temporally, etc.) a bit removed While grades cannot reflect the full amount of from the situation. The vantage of distance often learning student’s experience, they are nonethe- allows us to consider the situation from multiple less a tool by which instructors are able to give perspectives of which we were previously not students feedback as to their performance. Alt- aware. hough we prefer to give only qualitative feedback (written comments and consultations), we are In addition, through reflection, we can often also required to provide students with quantita- more clearly and more fully consider the many tive assessments, i.e. grades. Therefore, in this components involved, as well as the implications. program, students are provided both. Reflection also involves asking what ones values We would hope that students could focus their have to say about, or how they are affected by, attention mostly on the qualitative assessment, the experience. as grades reflect only partially how much has been learned. Social Analysis “Analysis” is “the division of a complex whole into Grades are determined by the course instructors, its component parts or constitutional elements however students are expected to provide input [for the purpose of] discovering or uncovering into the evaluation and assessment process. At qualities, causes, effects, motives, or possibilities, the beginning of the semester, professors will often as a basis for action or for a judg- give students the grading rubric they use to as- ment.” (Webster’s New Dictionary of Synonyms). sess papers and presentations. Social analysis is concerned with issues and themes that occur and make up the worlds lived Assessment Criteria by groups of people. Such themes could include An excellent academic paper/project is one that racism, security, violence, peace, or faith, for in- has taken the following into consideration: stance. Social issues would be a bit more specific,  Analytical approach and critical depth- con- possibly elements within themes, including for cisely and penetratingly asking the WHY, instance, hunger, unemployment, inflation. Social HOW, WHAT, WHERE AND WHO questions. analysis looks at these issues by considering the  Incorporation of multiple perspectives and policies that affect these issues. multidisciplinary approaches that show their relations.  Use of additional references, e.g. books, out- side class contacts, newspapers, radio, TV, etc.

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 Evidence of effective review of assigned read- Class Participation ings. As CGEE depends on collective and participatory  Discovery of new ideas, showing initiative in learning, class attendance is required, but is not seeking knowledge. sufficient. As participation accounts for a signifi-  Creative, concise, articulate presentations, cant portion of your course grade, it should be which reflect well thought-out arguments evident that participation is highly valued by the and a clear understanding of the issues under instructors. In this regard, please take note of the discussion. following points in relation to class participation:  Bibliographies and footnotes, proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation. It is not the quantity of participation that is most  Participate actively in all learning opportuni- important; rather it is the quality of your partici- ties (in and out of class). pation that will be weighted most heavily in de-  Incorporation of affective (feeling) aspects in termining your participation grade. relation to issues and experiences in personal Diverse views are important and desired as they and community life including how the stu- deepen our understanding of the world and how dent feels about the issue. others view it. We expect that you will both make your unique Explanation of Grades contribution and also will respect and encourage We believe that good evaluation of student work others to share their views as valid contributions is an art and not a science. The grading system we to the learning process. Your comments and con- use attempts to be as explicit as possible regard- tributions to class discussion will be more in- ing the ways in which you are evaluated. sightful if you come prepared and if you actively and carefully listen to your classmates’ contribu- Augsburg University uses a numerical grading sys- tions. tem using the following definitions: A large portion of your participation grade will Grade Grade Points Description include the quality of your interaction with guest speakers. This includes showing up on time, A 4.00 Excellent showing appropriate respect for the speaker A- 3.67 (including dressing appropriately and respectful- ly), remaining engaged in the presentation (e.g., B+ 3.33 leaning forward, retaining eye contact, smiling), and, most important, asking timely and B 3.00 Good thoughtful questions.

B- 2.67 Student Rights and Responsibilities C+ 2.33 Students with formally diagnosed learning or physical differences have legal rights to course C 2.00 Satisfactory modifications. If you qualify, please note this on the Health/Medical questionnaire in your Global C- 1.67 Gateway, and you will be contacted by CGEE D+ 1.33 staff to manage the accommodations necessary for you to have a successful semester. D 1.00 Poor

D- 0.67

F 0.00 Failure

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Honesty Policy Before the end of your semester abroad you Students are expected to follow the Augsburg should go to Parchment Document Exchange and Honesty Policy, which is printed in the Appen- create an account. (You will also be given this URL dices section of this manual. Except when the during your on-site wrap-up session while assignment expressly encourages group work, it abroad.) This is all you need to do. After grades is assumed that all course work will be your own. have been reported Augsburg University will ac- You are not to copy the work of others. All stu- cess your account have your grades sent to your dents will be given a copy of the policy at the be- home school. The first transcript will be sent free ginning of the semester and each student will be of charge. asked to "pledge" that she or he has read it and understands it. The first occurrence of plagiarism You can also use Parchment to request your own will result in the failure of the assignment. A stu- copy, if you need a one for your scholarship pro- dent who commits plagiarism a second time will gram, or in the future when you are applying for fail the course. grad school and need a transcript. Subsequent transcript requests will be charged a fee of $7. Incomplete Grades An incomplete grade may be given only in the case of serious emergency. To receive an incom- plete grade, a student must receive permission from the program’s Program Coordinators; must file a form stating the reasons for the request, the work required to complete the course, the plan and date for completing the work, and comments from the instructor; and must gain the approval of the Registrar (at Augsburg and the Registrar at the home school if applicable). If permission is granted, the necessary work must be completed in enough time to allow evaluation of the work by the Academic Director and filing of a grade before the final day of the following semester. If the work is not completed by that date, the grade for the course becomes a 0.0.

Credit and Transcripts Each course is worth four credits. Most students will take four courses for a program total of 16. Credit is granted and transcripts issued by Augs- burg University.

Transcripts are sent electronically via Parchment Document Exchange (unless your school does not accept electronic transcripts).

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RELATED COMPONENTS OF THE ACADEMIC PROGRAM

Orientation During the two days programming in Eastern The program officially begins in Johannesburg on Cape, students will visit various places, including Sunday, August 12, and we expect your arrival in the visit to the Calabash Trust Women’s’ Empow- Johannesburg by that time. Since a lot of the ori- erment Centre, Addo National Park, and the Ste- entation and group-building activities occur dur- ve Biko Centre. From there the group will travel ing the first days, late arrival can detract from by bus to Cape Town for a week of program activ- these aspects of the program. The first few weeks ities and one free day. of the semester will be orientation to the pro- gram, both in Johannesburg, Cape Town and The schedule in South Africa is very full, which Windhoek. This time has several purposes: 1) to leaves little time for free time. In Jo’burg, stu- begin developing a living-learning community; 2) dents find they have the least amount of free to become familiar with some basic information time, as they do a homestay as well as going about the two countries; and 3) to become famil- through orientation sessions and academic pro- iar with the coursework and the program's meth- gramming. In Cape Town, students will have at odology. least one free day, during which students usually climb the infamous Table Mountain, visit the Wa- You will find that the programming is intense and terfront, or relax on the beautiful Camps Bay that the schedule is very full, so rest when you beach among other activities. can on the flight to South Africa. Accommodations in South Africa South Africa Seminar While in South Africa, the group usually travels by The program spends two weeks in South Africa. combi (10-22 passenger vans), and fly from During the first week of the program students will Jo’burg to Eastern Cape, and Cape Town to Wind- be in Johannesburg. The following week students hoek. Your accommodations will include staying will travel to Eastern Cape for two days of pro- at local hotels or guesthouses. Most accommoda- gramming, then spend a week in Cape Town. The tions will have paid launder available. travel seminar to South Africa provide students with a chance to fit their educational experiences The Center for Global Education and Experience in Namibia into the larger context of Southern reserves the right to change the group's itinerary Africa. Students will again have the opportunity or arrangements in the event that it becomes to incorporate real life experience with academic necessary or advisable to do so (due to weather, work, experiencing how the issues raised in the strike, illness, or other causes in the region). Any classroom, as well as in meetings and visits, relate alterations will be made with no additional cost to the lives of South Africans. to the student.

In the past, the daily itinerary in Johannesburg The Living/Learning Community has included visits with speakers who were active CGEE semester students work together to form a in the liberation struggle, as well as the Freedom living/learning community. As the group lives to- Park Monument, and the Apartheid Museum. gether, travels and takes classes together, it is Students live with families in Soweto for one important that students develop a positive and weekend to gain some experience with Johannes- respectful environment amongst themselves. burg’s largest former Black township.

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Although each group is different, we hope that a Students are matched by the Homestay Program feeling of a community and togetherness will de- Coordinator early in the program. Matches are velop. Students will have opportunities to teach made with a mind to personality and any special and learn from each other as well as share good needs, whether the student’s or the host family’s. times together. It is important that community As with the families, an orientation is also provid- members support each other in rough and con- ed for students before the program to similarly fusing times, listen, and be willing to sacrifice in- brief students in general about the homestay pro- dividual needs and wants for the sake of the larg- gram, its objectives, logistical information, and er whole, so that each person can learn as much guidelines. At that session, students will receive as possible. other important information as well as have the opportunity to ask further questions about the In order to facilitate a healthy community, the program. group meets once a week. As a community mem- ber, you will share responsibility for organizing Objectives of the Homestay Programs and attending these events. These meetings are a  Develop an understanding of the diverse real- time for everyone to touch base with each other, ities of life in Namibian and South African ur- to discuss community issues or topics, and to ban and rural settings. have fun. Usually, two students are in charge of  Compare and contrast your own family struc- planning and leading the event each week. As ture with Namibian family systems. members of the living/learning community, you  Understand the nuances of culture, commu- will also be responsible for participation in house nity life, and gender roles and the relation- tasks groups and the creation of general house ship with the history, politics, economics, and guidelines in order to insure the general mainte- development of the countries. nance and safety of the CGEE - Namibia house.  Incorporate real life experience with academ- ic work. Homestay Programs  Establish meaningful relationships with mem- One of the most rewarding and challenging parts bers of Namibian and South African society. of your semester will be the time you spend living with Namibian and South African families during Soweto Homestay homestays. You will have three homestay fami- Occurring during the first week in South Africa, lies: one in Soweto, South Africa, one in Wind- the homestays with families in Soweto provide an hoek, and one in a rural Namibian community. invaluable insight and experience with the history of apartheid in South Africa. Soweto was the for- Our host families go through a close screening mer black township outside of Johannesburg, and process before they are chosen. Some of the is almost a city unto itself, with three to four mil- families will have hosted CGEE students in the lion people. Students spend the weekend with past, and some will be new, as we are continually the families, doing whatever the family has recruiting new families to replace those that planned. This may include visiting a park, shop- move away, that are unable to host, etc. ping, visiting friends, etc. The stay usually lasts one full weekend beginning Friday afternoon and All families, old and new, are required to attend ending Monday morning. Students are placed an orientation conducted by the Homestay Pro- two students to a household. gram Coordinator before the homestay program. In that session, families are briefed in general about the home-stay program, its objectives, lo- gistical information, health and safety, as well as other general guidelines.

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Urban Homestay  At least one family member will speak basic The second family stay will be with a family in English Windhoek. It occurs within the first three weeks  Most families will have few of the conven- in Namibia. Referred to as the Urban Homestay, iences common in other parts of the world the home-stay generally lasts approximately one such as telephones and vehicles, and in the week. During this time students will attend clas- rural areas, running water and electricity. ses during the days, and spend evenings and  Vegetarian and restricted diets can be ac- weekends with their family. Students are placed commodated. However, we encourage you one student per household. The Urban to be flexible and eat what the families pre- Homestay Program has proven to facilitate com- pare. fort within the greater Windhoek community as  A CGEE - Namibia staff member will be in reg- well as provide opportunities to learn from and ular contact with each family or student at experience the great diversity within the capital least once every two days. city and create lasting friendships. Cultural Adjustment Rural Homestay The cultural context and family structures of the The final homestay program will occur with a Namibian families you will be staying with during family in a the village of Outapi, and will occur a the home-stays will likely be very different from few weeks after the Urban Homestay. Referred your own. At times you may feel uncomfortable to as the Rural Home-stay, this home-stay gen- with the accommodations, differences in food, erally lasts between five and ten days, again de- and social interactions. These characteristics may pending on the semester program schedule. Stu- cause you to feel pushed past your comfort zone. dents are mainly matched with families on They may also cause you to feel isolated and homesteads outside of a rural town. As with the alone. In general, in preparation for this part of Urban Homestay, students are generally placed the program, we ask that you open yourself up to one per household. This experience often proves the experience, accept the good, the bad and the to be the most challenging, and most rewarding unavoidable awkward moments, remembering of the whole semester. that different is not better or worse, just differ- ent. Below are some suggestions to help con- Logistical Information front such feelings… We are providing you with the following infor- mation so you can anticipate some of the details Suggestions to help you feel more at home and for this part of the program: part of the family:  Orientation sessions prior to each Homestay  Walks – Take walks with one or more family Program will be conducted and will include members. Visit neighbors, go to church or to information on cultural patterns and practic- the market, and get acquainted with the ar- es, as well as basic information related to ea. inter-cultural activities and issues in the con-  Homework – Help the kids with their home- text of the community in which you will be work. Have them help you understand their residing. culture.  The group will receive basic language train-  Talk – Ask about neighbors, weddings, funer- ing to facilitate communication in the local als, etc. Learn common words in the local language for the rural homestay. This is not language, and practice some English/local a full language preparation program; the language. focus here is more on cultural orientation.

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 Work – Be willing to help out. Most families appreciate it when you show interest and assist in their daily tasks—tending to fields or livestock, fetching water, pounding grain, food preparation, crafts production, etc.  Play – Play with the children in the family and in the neighborhood. Play soccer, shoot mar- bles, share songs, learn traditional dances, juggle, fold paper toys or play games.  Photos – Photos from home are great conver- sation starters and means for sharing about family, school, work, etc.  Cook – Learn to prepare traditional dishes.

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TENTATIVE CALENDAR FOR FALL 2018

The following calendar maps out the semester in a general way. It is a tentative schedule, as things can and do change at times in the course of the semester. Upon arrival you will receive a detailed day-by-day schedule. Saturday, August 11 Depart the U.S. Sunday, August 12 Arrive Johannesburg, South Africa Week 1 August 12-18 Orientation and Johannesburg programming Week 2 August 19-25 20-22: Eastern Cape 23-29: Cape Town Week 3 August 26 – September 1 23-29: Cape Town 30: Travel to Windhoek 30-1: Orientation Week 4 September 2 – 8 Teambuilding, Start formal classes Week 5 September 9 - 15 Classes and Urban Family Stay Week 6 September 16-22 Classes Week 7 September 23-29 Classes and Travel to Luderitz Week 8 October 30-October 6 Classes Week 9 October 7-13 Rural Homestay and Etosha Travel Week 10 October 14-20 Rural Homestay and Namibia Travel Week 11 October 21-27 Fall Break (free week for personal travel) Week 12 October 28-November 3 Classes Week 13 November 4-10 Classes and travel to the Coast Week 14 November 11-17 Classes Week 15 November 18-24 Classes Week 16 November 25-30 Classes (Wrap up) Week 17 December 1-7 Final projects, Re-entry December 8 Depart Windhoek for U.S.

Please note: If you are planning on traveling after the program on your own, you will be free as of the last day of the program. Transportation will be provided by CGEE to the airport. If you choose to travel on your own past this date, you will need to arrange your own transportation.

The Center for Global Education and Experience reserves the right to change the group's itinerary or ar- rangements in the event that it becomes necessary or advisable to do so (due to weather, strike, illness, or other causes in the region). Any alterations will be made with no additional cost to the student. If you are under the age of 18, or are not Returna U.S. citizen,to Table ofplease Contents contact our CGEE - Minneapolis office as there are special documentation procedures you will need to follow. Namibia and South Africa - Fall 2018 Page 21

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

Passport Namibia: The Center will obtain a study visa for Citizens of all countries must have a passport to you. Instructions and the forms required for your travel to Namibia and South Africa. If you have visa requests can found in the Actions Required one, be sure that it is valid through at least June section of your Global Gateway account. These 8, 2019, as both Namibia and South Africa require are due by June 1. Please respect this deadline; that all visitors have a passport that is valid for six Namibia is very strict about documentation and months past the scheduled date of departure. We requires foreign students to have a visa before suggest that you make a copy of the photo page entering the country. The Namibian Ministry of of your passport to carry with you (in a separate Home Affairs can be very slow in processing these place from your passport) when you travel. You visas, so it is particularly vital that you complete can also scan the photo page of your passport the required forms in a timely fashion. If you do and save it someplace that you can easily access not return your visa application by June 1 you and print it if necessary. As a further safeguard, may be required to apply for your own visa. you may want to bring to Namibia a certified copy of your birth certificate in case you need to reap- If you plan of visiting countries other than Namib- ply for a lost or stolen passport during the semes- ia and South Africa (during Fall break or before/ ter. Bringing this with you is far easier than after the semester program) you are responsible getting these documents to you once you've left. for acquiring the necessary documentation.

Visas If you plan to stay in Namibia after May 26 please Republic of South Africa: The South African gov- bring this to our attention with your visa applica- ernment does not require U.S. citizens to have tion. We will try (but cannot guarantee) to make pre-approved visas before entering South Africa. your visa good beyond December 8. If we cannot You need only a valid passport as proof of citizen- validate your visa beyond December 8 you may ship. If you are a citizen of another country, you need to travel briefly outside of the country and may need to acquire your own visa for South Afri- then return as a tourist. ca if necessary. Please contact the Minneapolis office ASAP if you are not a U.S. citizen.

Since you will only be there for less than 90 days, Our staff will have your you will enter as a TOURIST. Please mark “tourist” on your arrival form – THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT. Namibian visa ready for you when you get to South Africa. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE IT BEFORE YOU LEAVE THE U.S.

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HEALTH AND SAFETY

Please be aware that this program is physically If you are allergic to sulfa drugs, it is essential that and emotionally demanding. For example: cli- you obtain and wear a Medic Alert bracelet or matic changes; high temperature, and/or high necklace. Go to http://www.medicalert.org. humidity; change in altitude; exposure to unfa- miliar bacteria due to change in diet; long days See a Doctor before You Go and intense schedules; and extended travel in For recommended vaccinations and other health cramped vehicles. precautions you should take before departing for your destination, please check the Centers for These factors, combined with potential strains Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at http:// from culture shock, living away from regular sup- www.cdc.gov/travel/. Since we are not medical port groups of friends and families, and intensive professionals, we cannot make recommendations interaction with other group members can affect that will be applicable to all individuals in all plac- your health in ways you do not anticipate, es, so you should make those decisions with a putting stress on the body and emotions which doctor. If you have ongoing health issues, it make you more susceptible to illness. We ask would be wise to check with your regular doctor that you assess your physical and emotional about vaccines and other precautions. health carefully. It’s important to schedule your appointment right We encourage you to be open with yourself and away, if you haven’t already. If you don’t already with us regarding your health and medical histo- have a regular family physician, google a list of ry. Giving prior consideration to how your travels travel clinics in your area. might affect you can be very important in main- taining your health during the semester. Pre- Some helpful online resources: existing or past conditions will not exclude you  US Department of State web pages on ser- from participating in the program; rather, in dis- vices for American citizens abroad: cussing them now you are more likely to have a www.travel.state.gov healthier and more rewarding study abroad ex-  Centers for Disease Control: www.cdc.gov/ perience. travel  World Health Organization: www.who.org If you have a condition in your medical history  International Society of Travel Medicine: that may call for treatment while you are abroad, www.istm.org or something a physician should know if you are  Travel Health Online: www.tripprep.com being treated/prescribed drugs for any other  HTH Worldwide: an insurance company that condition that may arise, it would be very helpful specializes in insurance for international trav- if you could have this written up by your personal elers, offers advice on the issues you might physician and bring it with you in a sealed enve- encounter abroad in a series of short lope. This way if you do need treatment in Na- Youtube videos. mibia or South Africa, you can give this to the doctor there. This will expedite the best treat- ment possible

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There is other useful information available in the Inoculations Resources Section of Global Gateway account. The CDC recommend the following inoculations These resources are: for travelers to Southern Africa. Although CGEE  Emotional Health & Study Abroad does not require any of these, we strongly recom-  Wellness Plan for Study Abroad mend Hepatitis A and Meningitis.  International Travel & Health Insurance  Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG): CDC rec-  Alcohol Abroad Awareness ommends this vaccine because you can get  Helpful Videos for International Travel hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Southern Africa, regardless of where Insurance you are eating or staying (see detail below). Medical Insurance: As a CGEE student, you will be  Hepatitis B if you might be exposed to blood covered by Augsburg University’s Foreign Travel (for example, health-care workers), have sex- Abroad insurance, underwritten by Educational ual contact with the local population, stay and Institutional Insurance Administrators and longer than 6 months, or be exposed through administered by Seven Corners 24/7 Travel Assis- medical treatment. tance. This plan includes travel, accident and sick-  Malaria: You may need to take prescription ness coverage, as well as assistance with lost trav- medicine before, during, and after your trip el documents (plane tickets or passport). See: to prevent malaria, depending on your travel Benefits Summary, Member Card and FAQ’s. plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling (see detail below). We highly recommend that you create a profile at  Rabies, if you might be exposed to wild or this website before departing for your program so domestic animals through your work or recre- you can familiarize yourself with the site and all ation. its resources, and even use it to prepare for de-  Typhoid: you can get typhoid through con- parture. taminated food or water. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if If you do incur medical expenses, you may need you are staying with friends or relatives, vis- to pay for the services up-front, and be reim- iting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are bursed by the insurance company. If so, make an adventurous eater. sure to save all receipts related to the injury/  As needed, booster doses for tetanus- illness so you make request reimbursement. How- diphtheria, measles ever, in most cases the provider/facility will be able to work directly with the insurance compa- Hepatitis ny. The Centers for Disease Control recommend that travelers to Central America receive an immune globulin (IG) shot or Hepatitis A vaccine for pro- tection against Hepatitis A. According to the CDC, travelers to Central America are at high risk for Hepatitis A, especially if travel plans include vis- iting rural areas and extensive travel in the coun- tryside, frequent close contact with local persons, or eating in settings of poor sanitation.

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A study has shown that many cases of travel-  Take anti-mosquito precautions: related Hepatitis A occur in travelers to develop-  The CDC recommends an insect repellent ing countries with “standard” itineraries, accom- with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide) as modations, and food consumption behaviors. the repellent of choice. Many DEET prod- Hepatitis A vaccine is preferred for persons who ucts give long-lasting protection against plan to travel repeatedly or reside for long peri- the mosquitoes that transmit malaria. ods of time in intermediate or high-risk areas.  Wear clothing which covers the body, par- Immune globulin is recommended for persons of ticularly after dark when mosquitoes are all ages who desire only short-term protection. the most active, along with effective mos- The vaccine requires a series of injections, the quito repellant, etc. first of which must take place at least four weeks  You may want to bring mosquito netting prior to travel, and the second six months after (or purchase it once you arrive) to cover the first. The immune globulin is a single dose yourself when sleeping in areas where the shot. Because it offers only short-term protection risk is highest if you plan on traveling be- (3-5 months), it should be administered shortly fore or after the program. CGEE will pro- prior to travel. vide mosquito netting for participants in malaria risk areas. Malaria  Anti-malarial drugs: As an anti-malaria There are areas in Namibia, particularly in the prophylactic the U.S. Centers for Disease Con- north, but also less frequently in Windhoek, trol (CDC) recommend the following: where malaria is a concern. You will find confus-  Atovaquone/proguanil (brand name ing, even conflicting information about the risk Malarone) and prevention of malaria. We suggest you first  Doxycycline (many brand names and ge- consult your doctor for his/her recommendation nerics are available) and try to make sure you are able to take the  Mefloquine (brand name Larium and ge- medication you choose. During the rural neric). Larium has more side effects and homestays you will be staying in the Kunene re- should not be taken by anyone who is also gion, but most likely passing through the Oshiko- taking anti-depressants or has a history of to and Oshana regions as well. mental illness, as it tends to exacerbate the symptoms of mental illness and coun- We encourage you contact the Centers for Dis- teract the effectiveness of anti- ease Control Malaria Hotline at 770-488-7788 for depressants. the most current information. We ask that you  Chloroquine is NOT an effective antimalar- pay close attention to the following information ial drug in Southern Africa and should not on Namibia, where health professionals do have be taken to prevent malaria in this region. substantial experience and expertise.  All are expensive, but effective. Doxycy- cline and Larium must be taken for one There is no medication that is proven to be 100% month after leaving the malarial area; effective as a preventative measure; basically, Malarone only needs to be taken for one you can take the medication of choice, hope it week after leaving the malarial area. works if bitten by mosquitoes, and do your best  The World Health Organization recom- not to be bitten. We recommend the following mends Chloroquine plus proguanil while here in Southern Africa: (Malarone). Discuss the options with a health professional and decide which ma- laria protection makes most sense for you.

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 Generally, you should begin taking the anti In order to facilitate this process, house members -malaria prophylactic two days to two are divided into groups and assigned household weeks, depending upon the drug, before tasks to insure the cleanliness of those areas entering an area at risk for malaria. The mentioned above. city of Windhoek is considered a very low- risk area according the Ministry of Health Students should also follow guidelines in regards and Social Services. to eating and drinking. In Namibia and South Afri-  Students should disclose all health prob- ca, all piped water is potable, available in all ur- lems, including mental health issues, to ban and rural towns, and does not entail health their travel doctors so they will not be pre- risks, as in some other countries. Your health risk scribed a malaria prophylaxis which is con- in regards to water is related to adequate con- traindicated for them. sumption, not water quality. You will likely find  Whichever of the main anti-malaria yourself becoming thirsty more often in this hot prophylactics you choose, they can be fair- and dry climate, so you will need to have a water ly expensive. If the cost of this medication bottle to carry with you daily. Beverages such as is not covered by your health insurance, soft drinks, fruit juices and beer are readily availa- you may want to consider buying them in ble, although relying on such as your primary Namibia where the price is lower. source is not sufficient to protect you from dehy- dration, and in fact can exacerbate dehydration. Be prepared to seek medical attention should symptoms develop. CGEE staff in Namibia are While strenuous walking is not a regular part of experienced, and will let students know how to the program, there could be an occasion when identify the symptoms. Malaria is commonly this is necessary to reach a certain location. Vary- treated with a medication called Fanzidar, which ing road conditions may at times make antici- is a sulfa drug (a classification of antibiotic). pating this impossible, although our staff will keep you informed whenever possible. If your General Health Care particular health condition makes this a concern, There are several doctors in Windhoek that the please be prepared to communicate your limita- CGEE – Namibia staff uses for semester students. tions to your Program Coordinators. These doctors are familiar with CGEE – Namibia students from past programs and therefore are If you are accustomed to regular rigorous physical comfortable and prepared to address general activity (e.g. jogging), you may find it difficult to health care needs that may arise during the se- maintain an equally active lifestyle during the se- mester. Students are accompanied to the Doctor mester. Discuss possible options for exercise by a staff member. when you arrive. Students may want to join a local health club (see Extracurricular Activities During the semester, students should follow cer- section for options.) tain guidelines for general health care mainte- nance. General cleanliness of yourself, as well as Insurance of your living conditions will decrease the oppor- Medical Insurance: As a Center for Global Educa- tunity for the spread of bacteria. Because you tion student, you will be covered by Augsburg may be living with up to 20 housemates, it is that University’s Foreign Travel Abroad insurance, un- much more important the house members make derwritten by Educational and Institutional Insur- concerted efforts to keep their personal as well as ance Administrators. This plan includes travel, the common spaces clean (kitchen, living room, accident and sickness coverage. See Benefits dining room, Resource Room, vans). Summary and Member Card.

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Although in most cases EIIA will work directly For most of the semester, you will be together with the healthcare provider or facility, there is with the rest of the group. As you consider addi- the possibility that you may need to pay for the tional travel during the program, we pass along services up-front, and then be reimbursed. If so, the following information about personal safety. you will be given instructions to file a claim. Be We do this not to alarm you, but to give you a sure to keep all receipts related to the injury/ sense of the culture in which you will be living. illness. This is for all participants, and especially women.

Personal Property Insurance: Please note that Petty muggings have been fairly common in you are responsible for the cost of replacing any Windhoek. While violent crime most often hap- personal property that is stolen or damaged. Your pens to people who are known to the perpetra- personal possessions may be covered by your tor, petty muggings and theft are fairly common family’s household insurance, but check to make occurrences. You should be prepared to walk in sure (especially if you plan to bring along any- groups as much as possible, only travel in trusted thing of value, such as your laptop computer). If taxis at night and be aware of your surroundings you want additional accident or life insurance, and possessions at all times. This includes not most companies can help you with this. using headphones when out walking/running as this gives potential thieves a clear signal that you Safety Concerns are not able to hear their approach and also have Undoubtedly, many of you (and your parents) something valuable that they can take. have concerns about traveling to southern Africa. We want to assure you that the Center for Global This also includes avoiding carrying purses and Education and Experience keeps a very close backpacks, but if necessary to carry them, keep watch on the situation in the region. CGEE– Na- one hand on them at all times. You should al- mibia and Minneapolis staff are in regular contact ways carefully consider what you need to take with the local U.S. consular service regarding se- with you and only take the amount of cash neces- curity concerns throughout Namibia and the re- sary for your planned activities, leaving cameras, gion. In the past 27 years, the CGEE has conduct- passports, and credit cards at home if not neces- ed over 60 trips to the region, more than any oth- sary. er U.S.-based educational organization. In addi- tion, we have conducted 1,300+ travel seminars Credit card/ATM card fraud has become quite for over 15,000 participants to other countries in common. You should never let your cards out of the global south in the last 35 years. We will not your sight for even a moment, even when hand- hesitate to cancel or to re-route any trip should ing it to a cashier. If the cashier needs to go to something occur that makes it appear unsafe to another area to swipe the card, you should go travel there. Having said that, you should come with your card so that it is in your site at all on the program prepared to take the kind of per- times. Distracting and confusing people at ATMs sonal security precautions you would in any ma- is also becoming very common. You should plan jor city, such as using a concealed money belt, to use ATMs in groups, but if you find someone not carrying your camera around your neck, etc. attempting to disturb you, you can hit “cancel,” More specific guidelines for safety will be dis- take your card and leave the scene immediately.

cussed in detail during your orientation session.

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All forms of crime become easier for criminals Security Measures Instituted by CGEE – Namibia when the victim has been consuming alcohol. If you choose to consume alcohol, you should do so  Emergency Contact Cards. You will be given at your own risk, recognizing that the warning a credit-card sized emergency contact card to signs of danger may be different in a different carry at all times. The card includes the context, and harder to notice with even a small phone numbers for lodgings, cell phone num- amount of alcohol in your body. In the past, stu- ber of CGEE staff members and emergency dents have made agreements with friends so that numbers (police, hospitals, ambulance, etc). a sober friend can help other friends to make Additionally, the card has phone numbers for smart choices when consuming alcohol. Unfortu- local trusted taxi companies. nately, date rape drugs are also present in Na-  Safe Taxis. As mentioned above, you are en- mibia, so you should also keep a close eye on couraged to only take dial-a-cab taxis at your beverage whenever drinking in public plac- night. “Street taxis” charge per seat and thus es. you may be riding with three strangers plus the driver. “Dial-a-Cab taxis” charge per car Regardless of race or ethnicity, sexism is common thus it will only be you, your friends and the in southern Africa. As in many parts of the world, driver in the car. Dial-a-Cab taxis are consid- the rights of women, while existing in many legal ered much safer than street taxis, especially documents (including Namibia's constitution), are at night. not generally accepted throughout the society.  It is very important that our staff be able to While there is a growing movement to create reach you in case of an emergency. There- awareness of the needs and rights of women, and fore, you are required to complete a Travel although attitudes may appear more liberal in the Information Form and give it to the CGEE cities, statistics for sexual assault are striking and staff before you travel outside of Windhoek. could be seen as an indicator of social attitudes  Safes. We do NOT recommend carrying pass- towards women. ports with you and therefore, we have a safe in our office where participants can keep Women should be prepared for a certain amount passports and other valuables locked away of cat-calls, being pressured to date, and sexual during their time in Windhoek. You will be advances. Common sense and caution, particular- given a police certified copy of your passport ly at night, are essential. and visa to carry with you. Participants will have access to the safe during their stay dur- Hitchhiking is not safe, especially for women, or if ing office hours. There are also lockers in it appears you might be a foreigner and carrying each room. You should bring a lock in order valuables. It is therefore recommended that trav- to be able to lock your valuables in your el be conducted through public services during room. the daytime and in groups. The CGEE– Namibia  Cell Phones. CGE has cell phones that you staff highly recommends that students use public can use during the semester. You only need transport (radio taxis) during the night, and will to pay a US $20 (N$200) deposit which you provide students with phone numbers for reliable will get back when you return the phone. You taxi services. More information related to particu- will need to add money to the phone to call lar areas to which you may consider traveling will friends and family, as there is currently just be available from the CGEE – Namibia staff and enough money on each phone to make emer- other Namibians you come to know. If you or gency calls. Each cell phone has several your parents are especially concerned, feel free phone numbers programmed on them so to call the CGEE office in Minneapolis, and we will that participants may quickly call staff mem- be glad to talk to you or your family members bers in case of emergency. further.

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 On-Call System. Every week there is a desig- nated “on call” staff member who carries with her/him our “on-call cell phone.” This staff member can be reached at any time of the day/night to assist in any urgent situation. The phone number for the ‘on call cell phone’ is 264-811292773 and is widely distributed (signs around the houses, listed on partici- pants schedule and emergency contact cards, taught at orientation, loaded into student cell phones, etc.). Students will also have all staff’s cell phone numbers in case the emer- gency cell phone does not work for some rea- son.  Electric Fence: The CGEE house has a high brick wall with an electric fence above it sur- rounding the property. You will have a key to the gate to come and go as you like, but must keep the gate locked at all times. No one un- known to you should ever be allowed inside. Students will be responsible for their visitors at all times. All visitors must stay in common areas (living room, pool area, etc.)

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TRAVEL INFORMATION

Your program fees do not cover your travel to *If you choose to arrive prior to August 12, you and from the region. You will need to book travel will be responsible for your own ground trans- to Johannesburg, South Africa on Saturday, Au- portation, lodging and food. gust 11, arriving by Sunday, August 12, and home from Windhoek, Namibia on Saturday, De- Once you arrive, all program travel will be provid- cember 8, unless you are planning to stay longer ed by CGEE. Fall break and any personal travel to do some personal travel. will be your responsibility.

Although you are free to make your own travel The flight is long, and jet lag can drain your ener- arrangements, CGEE recommends the following gy. We offer these recommendations for avoid- itinerary, as it is the best price and most efficient ing and/or minimizing jet lag, and aiding a in terms of layovers and arrival time: smoother transition for you:

Saturday, August 11 Before you come: Depending on the time of year Qatar Airways Flight 704: New Kennedy—Doha and the time zone you live in (see section on Depart New York Kennedy 10:40am time), Namibia is -5 10 hours later than your Arrive Doha 5:55am (August 12) hometown. If possible, 2-3 weeks before your departure, start to adjust your own internal clock. Qatar Airways Flight 1359 Go to bed early and get up early. The aim is to Depart Doha 7:45am aim to have your body adjusted as much as possi- Arrive Johannesburg 3:35pm ble to Namibia time by the time you step on the plane. Saturday, December 8 Qatar Airways Flight 1374 On the flight: Depart Windhoek 12:55pm  The moment you step on the plane in the Arrive Doha 11:35pm U.S., adjust your watch to the time in South Africa and start thinking (and acting) in terms Qatar Airways Flight 703 of that time. Try to stay awake during the Depart Doha 1:40am (December 9) South African daytime, and to sleep during Arrive New York Kennedy 7:40am the South African nighttime.  Dehydration can greatly increase the effects Cost: Approximately $1,158 (as of May 2, 2018) of jet lag. Therefore avoid caffeine and alco- hol, and drink massive amounts of wa- Once you have made your travel plans, please fill ter. Drink at least 2-3 liters of water. It is best out the Travel Plans questionnaire in yourGlobal to have a water bottle with you and not rely Gateway account. on the small glasses the flight attendants give out. CGEE recommends StudentUniverse or STA Trav-  Don’t stay in your seat the whole time. Get el as travel agencies that specialize in student up and walk up and down the aisle. If you are international travel. If you do book with either, drinking enough water, this should give you please mention that you are a member of Augs- plenty of good excuses! burg’s semester program

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Once you arrive: Do NOT nap during that first day. Stay up until a reasonable bedtime at night.

Arrival in Johannesburg You will be met at the airport by CGEE Staff. If you choose to travel beforehand and/or plan to arrive prior to August 12 you will be responsible for your own ground transportation, lodging and food. You may reserve a room at the guesthouse where the group will stay, but will have to make the arrangements. If you arrive early and choose to stay at this guesthouse, direct the taxi driver to:

St Peters Lodge 115 Victoria Street Johannesburg, Rosettenville, 2197 Phone: 011-27-11-435-3662

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LOCALE AND ACCOMMODATIONS

Namibia Finally, government operations occur daily in Namibia is located in southern Africa. Its border Windhoek to maintain stability throughout the countries are Angola to the north, Zambia to the country. northeast, Botswana to the east, and South Africa to the south. The South Atlantic Ocean borders Housing Namibia to the west. Namibia, slightly more than CGEE – Namibia owns a large house in Windhoek half the size of Alaska, is also located in and be- for its semester study programs. This will be your tween the Namib Desert along the coast, and the home base during the program. The CGEE – Na- Kalahari Desert in the east. mibia center is located in the residential neigh- borhood of Windhoek West, just four blocks Windhoek from the Namibia University of Science and Tech- The CGEE – Namibia semester program is based nology and a 10 - 15 minute walk to downtown. in Windhoek. Located in the geographical center The CGEE – Namibia house has six bedrooms, all of the country, Windhoek’s estimated population of which have bunk beds, closets, and a table. is 400,000. A modern city, the majority of its citi- You will share a room with one or two other stu- zens live in the heavily populated suburbs of Ka- dents. There is also a common living space and tutura and Khomasdal, near the industrial out- dining room for classes, meals, study and leisure skirts of the city. Other parts of the city include time. The center has two bathrooms for student Windhoek North, Ludwisgsdorf, Klein Windhoek, use in the house, and a shower block adjacent to Pioneers Park, and the Central Business District the house. A washing machine that can be used (CBD) to name a few. during the evening is also available. Finally, the premises include a large yard, a nice patio, a small swimming pool and a veranda adjacent to the lounge.

Accommodation outside Windhoek Your semester in Namibia will include in-country short travel seminars to different parts of the country. Accommodations during these travel seminars are arranged at established accommo- dation facilities such as Guesthouses and Hotels. The group will also camp at some points during the semester. CGEE has a complete camping gear As do many capital cities, Windhoek serves as the set for use especially during travelling in areas transportation hub, shopping and entertainment that do not have established accommodation center, and administrative center of Namib- facilities. ia. Here, you will find all the goods, services and amenities of a modern city readily available. Library Trains, buses, and taxis connect communities CGEE – Namibia has a small resource room with within Windhoek as well as towns throughout books and other publications available for stu- Namibia. Malls, shopping centers, restaurants dent use. Books are fiction and non-fiction, and nightclubs provide adequate services for con- though most material is class or program- sumers. related.

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CGEE Study Center—5 Simpson Street Common Space

View from terrace

Back yard/pool Library

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Time In November and December, the average high in Namibia is generally seven (7) hours ahead of Windhoek is 85°F; the average low is 60°F. In Eastern Standard Time (EST), eight (8) hours northern Namibia, temperatures are likely to be ahead of Central Standard Time (CST), nine (9) 5-10° higher than in Windhoek; the western hours ahead of Mountain Standard Time (MST), coast will be somewhat cooler than in Wind- and ten (10) hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time hoek. (PST). Namibia and South Africa are in the same time zone. Food All of your meals will be provided by CGEE during Weather the program, except for during Fall Break. While The following are average temperatures, not the staying at the CGEE – Namibia center, breakfast, extremes. Your time in the region will include the lunch, and dinner are prepared by the CGEE – transition from winter (May-September) to sum- Namibia cook staff. mer (October-April) so we are providing infor- When we are away from Windhoek, we either mation on the weather during each season. As in eat as a group at a restaurant or picnic, or each the U.S., the weather can get colder or warmer person is given a food stipend to buy their own than the averages, especially during seasonal food or to eat out. transitions, which is the majority of your semes- ter. Food prepared by the staff is nutritious and great. At the Center, staff will prepare dishes for The average high temperature in August is 66 °F; vegetarians and vegans (and please be apprecia- the average low is 43°F. It is generally a dry time tive of their efforts to meet your needs!) Howev- of the year, with the nights getting quite cool. er, vegetarians should be aware that since most Many buildings are not heated, so when the fruits and vegetables must be imported and most mornings are cool, rooms are cold, chillier than in are only available when in season, the range of the U.S. and cooler than to what you will be ac- produce available here is much more limited customed in Namibia. We suggest bringing along (and more expensive) than it is in the U.S. a couple of warm sweaters and/or a jacket to use in South Africa as well as something warm to While the staff will take pains to make sure that sleep in. there are vegetarian options available when the group travels, vegetarians should expect that In Cape Town, the average high in December is those options may be very limited, and more 77°F; the average low is about 59°F. basic than the sophisticated vegetarian cuisine available in other parts of the world. In September, the average high in Windhoek is 77 °F; the average low is 53°F. Namibia is a very dry Electrical Current country with a “little rains” season between Octo- The electrical current is 220/240 volts, the same ber and December. In northern Namibia, temper- as in Europe, but different from the U.S. and Can- atures are likely to be 5-10° higher than in Wind- ada. Most U.S. appliances run on less voltage hoek; the western coast (Walvis Bay and Swakop- (110 volts) so you need a transformer or voltage mund), where you will be for a few days, will be converter unless the appliance already has a built somewhat cooler than in Windhoek at about 50- -in switch to change the voltage (many newer 70°F year-round. shavers, hair dryers, and computers do). Not only is the voltage different, but so is the outlet plug; in Namibia, the outlet typically has three large rounded prongs, but some have two smaller rounded prongs.

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Almost all wall sockets in Namibia take the big, House Rules and Expectations round three-pin, 15-amp plug. If you have a conti- These rules are recommended by our on-site in nental/European or U.S. adapter plug, you will Namibia in the interests of your own safety as probably find that it won't work. A cheap solution well as that of your fellow students. is to buy a plug that will fit between your appli- ance and the transformer/voltage adapter. Gen-  Visitors are only allowed in the common are- erally, the necessary adapters are difficult to find as. No visitors shall be allowed within CGEE in the U.S. but they can be purchased easily in premises between 10:00pm and 10:00am on Namibia for about US$7.00. Some travel stores in any day. the US (AAA, for example) or the international  During weekdays (Sunday through Thursday), wing of the airport may sell the necessary adapt- students are expected to be and to remain er (ask for a plug for South Africa, which is the 3- within CGEE premises after 11:00pm, and on prong). weekends (Friday and Saturday), after 12:00am (midnight). You can easily buy adapters here, but many stu-  Students shall not be allowed to spend the dents find it more convenient if they have the night outside CGEE premises on weekdays necessary plugs when they arrive. If you do buy (Sunday through Thursday). On weekends them in the United States, be very specific to re- (Friday and Saturday), students may be al- quest the three round prongs of South Africa. A lowed to spend the night out, provided they universal adaptor set will probably not work. notify the management staff and provide the name/contact information of the person they Many electronics items don’t require a voltage are staying with. (We strongly discourage ex- adapter at all, just the plug adapter that you can tended stays outside of the study center or buy in Namibia for about US$7.00. This would family stays. We have an obligation to your include most cell phones, MP3 players and lap- home schools, and the expectation is that, tops. If you bring a power strip, you could plug unless otherwise noted, you will be housed in that into one plug adapter and be able to charge program-provided facilities. To allow other- all of you and your roommate’s electronics simul- wise would be a deviation from that obliga- taneously. Items that use more power - like hair tion and we would have to notify your home dryers and curling irons - will require a voltage school. If you choose to, you will need to sign adapter. Many students find it simpler to buy a the Independent Living Waiver.) hair dryer or curling iron in Namibia rather than  No alcohol allowed in the study center sort through the complex world of voltage adapt-  Drugs are strictly prohibited, and students ers. found in violation will be sent home at their own expense. Most common sizes of batteries can be purchased for appliances that use them.

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COMMUNICATION

Snail Mail If you are accustomed to having a laptop with you During the program, your mailing address in Na- at all times, and don’t think you manage without mibia is: one, you may want to consider bringing it with c/o Center for Global Education you. Students have found them to be useful for P.O. Box 21377 writing papers, and you will have the freedom to Windhoek, NAMIBIA use it when you wish, and not have to wait for one of the three computers we have on-site for The street address for DHL or FedEx only is: (Do student use. If you are concerned about bringing not use this for regular postal mail!) your laptop with you, you could bring an older 5 Simpson Street, less expensive one, in the event it becomes dam- Windhoek, NAMIBIA aged or stolen.

However, regular airmail should always be sent to If you decide to do so, bring one that runs on 220 the post office box, and not the street address, as -240 volts (most do). The plug itself can be there is no regular home mail delivery. The postal adapted to the Namibian style easily for a couple service is slow; allow at least three weeks for de- of dollars once you’re here. Voltage adapters can livery of letters and small packages. Even though be purchased if your laptop can only run on the post office may tell your family/friends that if “U.S.” current (see the section on Electrical Cur- they send the letter/package by priority mail that rent). it will arrive in 6-10 days, the reality is that it will take at least 2 weeks – often much longer. If using When you travel, bring it in your carry-on instead US Postal to send a small package, ask for flat- of packing it in your luggage to prevent theft or rate packaging, about US$48. Mail these packag- damage. Please keep in mind the risks. It will be es to the post office box. (Warning: packages your responsibility should damage or theft occur don't always arrive so we caution you about hav- while traveling, and you should consider getting ing anything valuable sent through the mail!) Alt- some kind of insurance. CGEE cannot reimburse hough reliable, express mail services are expen- you if your computer is lost, stolen or dam- sive and must be sent to the street address. aged. You may also consider bringing a laptop computer cable lock to make your computer a E-Mail and Computers little more secure, especially when traveling. The CGEE – Namibia center has reserved two lap- top computers and a data processing computer Skype with a printer for student use. The house is The best way to communicate is Skype or any equipped with wireless internet. Students, how- other internet based voice service, although it ever, should be forewarned that the internet is can get very slow during peak time. There may not as fast as at their home and/or university, also be a few times when the internet is down; in and can be unreliable. that case, students can go to an internet cafe downtown. Internet cafes are available in Windhoek and in most South African cities. Though we understand student frustration with the limited computer resources, this is part of the experience of study- ing in a developing nation.

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Phones Cell Phones In developing countries like Namibia cell phones The CGEE Namibia phone numbers are (from U.S. are now more in use than landlines because they use 011-264-61 prefix): are cheaper and more convenient tools of com- munication than landlines. It is free to receive 228-773 Office number to contact staff phone calls and text messages from anywhere in (during Namibian office hours). the world on a Namibian cell-phone. Placing phone calls to the US is very expensive on a cell- phone. 129-2773 CGEE Cell Phone (carried by a program coordinator at all For a cell phone to work here, it must be a GSM times). dual or tri-band phone and have a removable SIM card. The dual-band GSM cell phone supports 240-920 Office fax (either 850/1900 MHz in the Americas or 900/1800 MHz in Asia, Africa, Europe and the I. Phoning within Namibia: Middle East) for calling capabilities needed in ru- The cellphone which the students can borrow ral areas, or in developing metropolitan areas from CGEE can be used to call the US. It costs where phone service is simply not available to all roughly US$1/minute however, so it’s usually residents. more affordable to either use an internet based voice service, or have friends in the US The most useful cell phone is the GSM tri-band call you (see below). model that comes with 900, 1800, and 1900 MHz. This phone will work in Asia, Africa, Europe, II. Phoning from Namibia to the U.S.: the Middle East, and the Americas. In other Calling to the U.S. from Namibia is very expen- words, this tri-band GSM phone is useful for sive—over $1/minute. Almost all U.S. calling world travel and can be used at home in the Unit- cards will not work as you cannot dial a 1-800 ed States before and after travel. number from Namibia. The best option is to arrange a time over -e mail for your family and If you wish to bring a phone from the States here, friends to phone you at the house number or make sure it meets the above description. We your cell phone. We recommend that you visit also have cheap no-frills phones available here www.comfi.com to purchase a calling card that students may rent for the semester for that is used from the US to Namibia (on the US$20 or N$150 deposit. website, type in US to Namibia. The “Jupiter” card usually works well.) Generally, late eve- For service, a contract is not required. There are nings or early mornings are the best times to a variety of cell-phone providers which offer pre- reach you. paid (pay as you go) service. Upon arrival in Na- mibia, a pre-paid starter kit that comes with a Do not rely only on Skype to reach family and SIM card must be purchased for about US$1. friends as the internet connection here will Then, prepaid airtime can be purchased in various not always support it. dollar amounts to “recharge” your account. The phones which can be rented from CGEE come with a SIM card.

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EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AND PERSONAL TRAVEL

Students in the past have joined soccer teams, For travel that requires more time than the se- basketball teams, rugby teams, and musical mester break allows, you should consider remain- groups. There are places to dance, do yoga and ing in the region longer, as students are responsi- hike in and around Windhoek. There are movie ble for attending all CGEE classes and program theatres and many restaurants, cafes and bars to functions independent of their personal travel. visit. Students who don’t do internships can (Keep in mind that you can possibly stay at the choose to volunteer with different organizations, CGEE – Namibia house after the last program day such as schools, NGOs, and advocacy groups. for a minimum fee). When doing independent There is plenty to do in Windhoek—all it takes is a travel, students are responsible for their own ac- little initiative. commodation, transportation, food, and other expenses. The information provided below and There are four athletic clubs in Windhoek which more can be found in any of the travel guides, or students join. Nucleus ), Pulse and Exclusive is accessible online from sites such as Health and Wellness are closer, less expensive, www.lonelyplanet.com. and have most of the basic equipment one might expect from a gym. Virgin Active is a bit further While traveling in Namibia can involve long dis- and more expensive, but is nicer and includes an tances, there are a number of places that provide indoor pool. special experiences and can be reached easily for short visits. There are also other places that pro- While Windhoek is not known for its variety of vide unique experiences that really require at culinary cuisine, there are several excellent res- least a 4-day weekend and a little more effort taurants to choose from when students feel like a (but effort that's well worth it), and finally others special night out. There are plenty of German still that can't be done in less than one week. restaurants and others specializing in large quan- tities of meat, including local game. A favorite Possible Weekend Trips from Windhoek: among tourists is Joe’s Beer House which serves  Gross Barmen: Located in a hot springs area zebra, kudu, ostrich, crocodile, springbok and with indoor thermal pool as well as an out- more. The Namibia Institute for Culinary Educa- door pool and good bird watching. tion (NICE) offers the opportunity to watch the  Waterberg Plateau: North of Windhoek in a aspiring chefs at work behind a glass window. lovely setting with trips to the top available There are also Chinese, Brazilian, Cameroonian, for sighting many kinds of wildlife, especially Indian, Italian, Portuguese and Japanese restau- endangered species which have been re- rants. established there.  Hardap Dam Lake and Game Reserve: South You will have opportunities to travel on your own of Windhoek with a large lake and extensive during the weekends and the independent travel hiking trails. week during Fall Break.  Brandberg (the highest mountain in Namibia) and Spitzkoppe (a renowned granite outcrop- ping): Both provide interesting viewing, hik- ing, and ancient rock paintings but have only camping accommodations nearby.

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 Africat or the Cheetah Conservation Fund – Both organizations are dedicated to the preservation of cheetahs and leopards in Namibia, have overnight accommodation on the premises or nearby, include predator education centers, and offer opportunities to see cats very close up.

Longer breaks (a few days - one week+) allow time for visits to:  Etosha Pan National Park is not only Namib- ia's premier wildlife reserve, but also one of Africa’s largest with over 100 types of mam- Namib Desert mals and 300 plus kinds of birds. (Please note that we often include a visit to the park as part of the program schedule.)  Fish River Canyon, the second largest canyon in the world, is in the extreme southern part of the country. The hik- ing trails are not considered feasible during the hot summer months of Oc- tober through April.  The Namib Desert, with many unique and fascinating aspects, can be encoun- tered on many drives. Soussesvlei, within the Namib, is an area of out- standing, colorful sand dunes, the high- est in the world, and is 60 km. from the nearest campsite.  The Orange (or Gariep) River divides Namibia from South Africa, and flows Etosha National Park through some stunning desert scen- ery. Several tour companies offer -3 6 day canoe trips along the river for about US$500.  Victoria Falls is a popular destination, and can be visited from both the Zimbabwe and Zambia side. As well as the renowned falls, there are many options of adventure activi- ties and viewing wildlife. If planning on trav- eling to Victoria Falls, budget around US$500-800 (of that, bring US$200 in cash for Visa and hostel payment).

Fish River Canyon

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Victoria Falls

Getting to most of these places requires private For a few other suggestions of places you may transportation or taking advantage of one of the want to consider, see: http:// many tour groups. In planning personal travel, we www.lonelyplanet.com/namibia. remind you to plan a budget according to your travel plans. You may want to travel in small For accommodation in Windhoek our staff rec- groups by bus or train. ommend the Rivendell Guest House which is lo- cated two blocks from the CGEE house and with- When traveling over-land and economizing on in walking distance of downtown. Facilities and food and lodging, a budget of US$30 per day is contact details are available at http:// sufficient (in addition to transportation www.rivendell-namibia.com/. CGEE has used costs). You may want to allot extra funds Rivendell to house visiting professors and short (US$300-1,000 recommended) for souvenir pur- term programs. If it is fully booked, there are a chases, adventure activities (rafting, bungee few other reasonably priced places in the neigh- jumping, etc.) and emergencies. borhood that we could suggest.

Visits by Family and Friends Other accommodation establishments in Wind- You are welcome to have family and friends visit hoek can be viewed at while you are in Namibia. Visitors are encouraged www.namibiareservations.com. to stay in nearby hotels and guesthouses, which offer convenient and comfortable accommoda- The Furstenhoff Hotel is also close to the Center, tions. They are also encouraged to come during about five minutes from CGEE house and five Fall Break or after the program ends, as you will minutes to downtown, although it is more expen- be quite busy the rest of the semester. sive. Contact details are available on the above website. In the past families and friends who visited during semester break hired vehicles and did their own tours. By that time you will have an idea of good places to visit and lodge. However, below are some sites you can browse for more information on tours: www.trulyafricatours.com/ and www.infotour-africa.com/index.php

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With regard to transportation: for a public trans- portation option, see http:// www.namibiashuttle.com/ Otherwise, we rec- ommend a private transport company by the name of Oryx Transfers and Tours, email [email protected] Cell. (011) 264 81 202 9137 or (011) 264 81 226 9552. They can provide a vehicle only or a vehicle with a driver. Another option would be a car hire company: https://carhirenamibia.com/ and Dial-a-Driver at https://www.namibia-tours- safaris.com/

Student Responsibilities Regarding Additional Travel You must inform a Program Coordinator and/or the International Resident Assistant in writing of any personal travel plans during the semester and/or over regularly scheduled breaks. Students may not leave the program without informing a Program Coordinator and/or the International Resident Assistant in writing of their itinerary, including mode of transportation, travel compan- ions, expected return date, phone where he/she can be reached etc. It is not enough to simply tell another student in the group. In the case of a stu- dent who has left the program without informing staff adequately, parents will be notified.

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MONEY MATTERS

A major question you are likely to have is how  Students on past programs have spent be- much money to bring and in what form. Your tween $1,000 - $2,000 but you could get by fees cover all program-related living (food and on less or spend a lot more, depending on board) and program travel expenses during the your habits. This amount allows for some semester. You need to cover your travel to and travel during the program, a fairly active so- from Africa directly with CGEE’s travel agency. cial life, occasional calls to home, and the The amount of money you will need depends on purchase of gifts. If you think you will want to your personal spending habits: how much addi- travel more extravagantly or buy more ex- tional travel (and by what means you are willing pensive gifts, bring more. In general, your to do it), gifts you will buy, personal care items, money can be stretched a little further than and social events. in the U.S.

We suggest that you bring a money belt for your In What Form? own security while traveling about in the city, on Cash: The only cash you need to bring is what the weekends, and to South Africa. Large depart- you might need for the trip over, and a little extra ment stores and specialty travel shops usually to get you through the first few days. (US$50 – carry them for about US$10. $75 should be fine). Remember, if you plan to travel to Victoria Falls, bring an additional US$200 How Much? (alternatively, you can exchange here but will in-  While most of your course reading materials cur fees). will be provided, you will need general school supplies. Traveler’s Checks: If you would like, you can  Bring US$50 in cash for your deposit (or bring some money in traveler’s cheques. Howev- US$70 if you plan to rent a cell phone) (exact er, most students find this to be unneces- change appreciated). This deposit is for the sary. Another “back-up” money source is the items that CGEE will issue you when you ar- travel AAA/Visa Debit card. The money you put rive. It will be returned to you if all items are on this card is protected like travel’s cheques. returned in good condition. (The items in- Visit your AAA branch to find out more (you don’t clude, but not limited to, Linens, sleeping have to be a AAA member). bags, Towels, Keys, Cell phones etc.)  We recommend that you budget at least ATM cards: Plan to get most of your cash from US$300 – $500 for potential medical expens- ATM machines. Most major bank ATM cards will es. Although the insurance provided by the allow you to withdraw cash from your U.S. check- program should cover any such expenses, ing or savings account, and will give you the mon- you should have some available funds just in ey in local currency. Family members can also case it the doctor or health care facility is not deposit money into your U.S. bank account, and able to access the insurance immediately. you can withdraw it from an ATM. Its good to no- tify your bank that you will be using your card in Namibia and South Africa ahead of time so that they don’t decline the charge.

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Credit Cards: Many shops accept major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and (less fre- quently) American Express, and banks provide cash advance services in the local curren- cy. Again, its good to notify the issuing bank that you will be using the card in Namibia and South Africa so that they don’t decline the charge. Money Transfers: Members of your family can wire money to you in the form of a Money Gram. A wire through Money Gram can be done entirely on-line using a credit card. The sender will just need to create an account on MoneyGram's web- site: https://www.moneygram.com. Wire trans- fers can also be done using Thomas Cook or the Bureau de Change. Money should be directed to you in Windhoek, Namibia. Upon completing the wire, the sender should receive an eight digit ref- erence number. In order to collect the money, you will need to bring your passport and the eight digit reference number.

Country Currency Approximate Exchange (as of April 2018) Namibia Namibian Dollar: N$12.49 to $1 US South Africa Rand: R$12.46 to $1 US

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WHAT TO BRING/PACKING LIST

Dress  Appropriate tops: Dress shirts with buttons The CGEE – Namibia staff advises students to and/or collars and blouses. dress in a neat, clean, and modest manner. The  Going-out clothes: If you enjoy dancing, mu- “Sloppy T-Shirt and Jeans” look is not in style sic clubs and other cultural events, you will here.—you will stand out! But the “put together want to bring outfits along for nightlife. Stu- t-shirt and jeans look” can work. Students regu- dents find that in general, Namibians are larly find that they have brought too many casual, more fashion conscious than the average or “summer” or “desert” clothes that aren’t ap- American college student. This often leaves propriate. As a general idea, we recommend students feeling out-of-place and sloppy, so bringing mostly semi-casual/nice outfits, and then keep that in mind as you pack. a few things for when you are just relaxing or  Warm clothes: Although it is the desert, it traveling on your own. Please note that shorts will be cool at times, especially during your (even “nice shorts”) are always considered casual time in South Africa and towards the end of clothes. When dressing up, it should be long the semester, so bring a few warm clothes pants or skirts. Keep in mind that due to the dry such as a fleece jacket and sweatpants. climate in Namibia, students can wash clothes  Casual clothes: For times when you are just out easily at night and wear them the next day. hanging out, traveling, or doing athletic activi- Or you can share clothes with each other and ties, you might want to bring a tank-top, t- have a huge wardrobe. Also keep in mind that in shirt, shorts, jeans, comfy pants, and the like. general clothes are cheaper to purchase here in  Tip: Think about how you would look if you Namibia, so if you feel the need to buy new were going out to dinner at a nice (but not things for the trip, it might pay to wait until you fancy place) back home: nice jeans and cute arrive. top or sundress and cardigan for girls, or nice pants and with a polo shirt or button down Semi-Casual or Nice Clothes for guys. This is the every-day look you’ll Almost every weekday will involve interaction want to achieve here! So be your “trendy,” with speakers, language instructors, visits to or- not your “sloppy” self! ganizations and institutions, or your internship or volunteering. For all of these occasions students Computer are required to dress neatly and conservatively, in If you plan to bring your laptop, please note that order to express respect for our guests and the you will be responsible for the cost to repair or professional environment. We advise that stu- replace it, whether or not the damage is the re- dents bring at least two or three dressier outfits sult of your action or the action of another stu- for such visits. Students find it helpful to bring at dent, staff person, or unknown person. It is least three different “bottom pieces” and three strongly recommended that you consider proper- “top pieces” that can be mixed and matched, as ty insurance for any theft or damages. CGEE can- well as nice shoes. not reimburse you if your computer is lost, dam-  Appropriate bottom pieces: Khakis, dress aged or stolen. You may also consider bringing an pants (one pair), knee-length or longer skirts, older/less expensive laptop. Having a laptop is dresses, nice jeans. (Loose long skirts are ap- very convenient, but can be heartbreaking if it propriate for women in all occasions, and gets damaged or stolen. This applies for any oth- many students wish they had brought more). er electronics you may consider bringing such as mp3 players and cellphones as well.

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Additional Advice Based on past students' experiences we suggest  Toiletry items are easy to find in grocery the following: stores and pharmacies in Windhoek at rea-  Bring photographs of you, your family, friends sonable prices, so don't pack big bottles of and your city to leave with your host fami- shampoo, deodorant, bug repellant, etc. lies. You can always make color copies if you Bring enough for the first week, and buy the don’t want to give up the original. rest later.  Some suggestions for family gifts are:  Items such as sunscreen, batteries, tampons,  For adults: key chains which reflect your contact lens solution are available here in home or region, regional t-shirts, coffee Namibia at prices somewhat higher than in mugs, place mats, dish towels, photo- the United States. graphic calendars (very popular) or books,  The selection of camera batteries is limited, world maps, inexpensive solar calculators, so bring what you will need. etc.  We strongly suggest that you not bring ex-  For kids (including adolescents): school pensive jewelry or accessories as theft, as in supplies, books, playing cards, balls, fris- any large North American city, is always a bees, calendars, art supplies, inexpensive concern. solar watches, picture/story books, kalei-  The CGEE office in Minneapolis can give you doscopes, slinkies, etc. names of past participants on this program,  Since resources for your host family are lim- who you can contact for more advice. ited, any additional input needed for a gift (such as batteries or developing film) would Gifts require further expenses and inconvenience You may wish to prepare for your three home- them. stays by bringing some gifts with you to Namibia.  Except for the items with a home-town/ These should not be expensive but rather a token region/school flare, most of the above items of your personal appreciation for being invited to are available in Namibia so you don't have to spend time with a family. It's best to bring some- bring these with you if you don't have the thing reflective of you: photos of you, your family, space. and friends; a photo or something from your hometown (e.g. a regional postcard); a school Luggage coffee mug etc. We cannot over-emphasize enough the matter of packing lightly! Although airlines may have differ- You do not need to bring a gift for each person. ing requirements, most will allow you two Something for the adults and a small toy (e.g. box checked pieces, and one carry-on. However, we of crayons) for the children is most appropriate. at CGEE (and all the previous students) have However, you will not know the ages of the chil- different recommendations! As a rule of thumb, dren in your host family until shortly before you you should be able to carry your entire luggage meet them. It is best to bring a souvenir from for the semester four city blocks without collaps- your school or hometown for the adults and buy ing. something for the children in Namibia, once you know them.

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We recommend: Personal Care Items  One large luggage piece (a large backpack, ___ 1 extra towel and a washcloth (one towel is suitcase, or duffel bag). This is the piece that provided) should hold most of your things, and which ___ Insect repellent and sunscreen (can be you should check. bought here as well)  One medium luggage piece (a small duffel ___ Sunglasses bag or carry-on-sized suitcase). This is the ___ Contact lens supplies (can be bought in Na- piece you will use throughout the semester mibia as well) when we travel outside of Windhoek. Ideally, ___ Any medications you use (in their original a fabric bag can be packed inside of the larger containers) and/or vitamins luggage piece on your way to Namibia, and ___ Travel alarm clock then filled with souvenirs on the return trip. ___ Canteen/water bottle  One small luggage piece (a school backpack, ___ Small flashlight or headlamp or similarly sized bag). In your carry on should ___ Camera (and disposable camera for sand be all your valuables (passport, tickets, mon- dunes) ey, camera, laptop, ipod, etc) plus a spare change of clothes and your toiletries. Travel Items ___ Passport (which will not expire before June Packing Checklist 8, 2019. ___ Photocopy of the title page of your passport Clothes and an extra passport photograph ___ 3-4 pairs pants (jeans or khakis, and 1 pair ___ Visa or MasterCard, ATM card dress) ___ Small tape recorder (optional, to record lec- ___ 2 pairs shorts (for around the house and tures) sports) ___ MP3 Player (optional) ___ 4-5 short-sleeved shirts/tops/T-shirts ___ A combination lock (for your locker in your ___ 2-3 long-sleeved (sweaters; cardigans are room) great layering pieces) ___ Notebook/book for journal writing ___ “Going Out” tops ___ Notebooks, pens, etc. for class notes and ___ 3-4 skirts or dresses for women/ additional projects (easily purchased in Namibia) pants as you prefer ___ Pictures of your family/friends/school/ ___ Nightshirt or pajamas neighborhood/work ___ Underwear ___ Socks Note: You do not need to bring a sleeping bag ___ 1 pair of tennis shoes, 1 pair sandals that are comfortable to walk in, 1 pair rubber shower flip-flops ___ Comfortable shoes that are a little more dressy (dressy sandals are good; heels not needed) ___ Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes (optional) ___ Swimsuit ___ Hat (providing shade to your face as well as the top of your head) ___ Fleece Jacket and sweatshirt/sweatpants

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Return to Table of Contents Namibia and South Africa - Fall 2018 Page 47 Namibia

U.S. State Department Information

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U.S. State Department Information

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