The program was designed in partnership with the Umoja Center for Pan African Student Excellence, and was open for applications from all students. The global service learning program combines education, cultural exchange, and community impact in a powerful, hands-on experience.
Service Learning programs bring together students, community partners, and faculty in a reciprocal learning environment. Students work with these partners to help address community-defined needs, earning course credit while making a meaningful impact. ISL programs give students the opportunity to do that abroad while learning how to be better global citizens.
"The new ISLP in South Africa is more than a service learning experience—it’s a transformative journey that empowers students to connect with their roots, engage in global service, and develop leadership skills that drive change,” says Mitch Mitchell, Associate Vice President of Student Success & Dean of Students. “We are creating pathways for students to thrive both academically and globally, ensuring their success knows no borders."
The program is part of the California State University Chancellor’s Office (CO) initiative, Advancing Black Student Success and Elevating Black Excellence. This initiative is dedicated to enhancing success for Black students, increasing enrollment and retention, and positioning the CSU system as a national leader in Black student achievement, according to the CO.
Over the course of two weeks (May 25—June 3), students will work at the Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary Volunteer Lodge, contributing to environmental and wildlife conservation efforts while gaining an immersive cultural experience.
Panthera Africa is a nonprofit dedicated to education, animal welfare, and establishing South Africa’s first fully solar-powered big cat sanctuary. Here, students will engage in activities to support the sanctuary, including animal care and facility maintenance.
In addition to their Service Learning work at the sanctuary, students will travel to sites such as Robben Island—where Nelson Mandela spent several years incarcerated on the island’s now-closed prison—and Table Mountain. They will also participate in drumming circles, enjoy traditional meals, and work with local artisans.
Before embarking on the trip, students will participate in a Service Learning course. The course prepares students on topics such as Service Learning pedagogy, South Africa’s historical, cultural, and socio-political landscape, and more.
This program is the newest ISL program at Cal Poly Humboldt. The University’s ISL opportunities also include programs in Cebu City, Philippines, and in Guanajuato, Mexico.
For more information about the program, contact Alexus-Harelle Deshazier, program coordinator for the Umoja Center for Pan African Excellence at hd303@humboldt.edu.