Summer 2019
This unique program provides IUPUI students with insight into the healthcare system in the Kingdom of Swaziland and the unique challenges and barriers to care experienced by its citizens. You will learn about and/or volunteer in a range of community-based organizations related to this theme and your specific discipline.
Students will have direct experiences and interactions with Swazi students, community members, and governmental and private organizations. There will be an opportunity to hear multiple perspectives on the challenges facing this rapidly developing country and for students to have a greater understanding of the business and culture of healthcare delivery in Swaziland. To help meet this goal, we have partenered with the University of Swaziland, Saving Orphans through Healthcare and Outreach, the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital, and other organizations.
Students will visit a variety of cities and places in Swaziland. Planned activities include a tour of an outdoor cultural heritage museum to help better understand the history of the country, and a local recycled glass factory and candle factory to provide insight on economic development. The group will also travel to the Hlane Royal National Park for a safari tour and have several shorter excursions, including to see local and handmade arts and crafts. Finally, the group will tour the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg to help understand the history and politics of neighboring South Africa.
This program explores healthcare in Swaziland in its many dimensions. Students will complete readings, attend lectures at the University of Swaziland, visit governmental and non-governmental organizations, and participate in critical reflections sessions. Students will also visit key cultural sites throughout the Kingdom and in South Africa.
This study abroad experience is a 3-credit hour spring course entitled, Swaziland: Health Systems Around the World. All participants will be required to enroll in one of the following courses if accepted into the program:
PBHL-H455 (Undergraduate)
PBHL-H670 (Graduate)