Please note that all itineraries are subject to change due to restrictions or limitations related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
About the Program
This dialogue explores the economics of development and the economics of conflict and resolution. You will be living in Kigali, Rwanda, with day and overnight excursions to sites around the country. About half of your time will be spent exploring economic development projects in the country. The other half will be spent learning about the impacts and responses to conflict in the country and the region, including the 1994 genocide and ongoing reconciliation process and refugee camps for those fleeing conflict in neighboring countries.
This dialogue connects the economic theories of development and conflict with the realities on the ground while experiencing the many facets of Rwandan life. We will have the opportunity to engage with local students and residents, government ministries, ngo’s operating in country, and visit with refugees in Rwandan based refugee camps as part of our coursework. In addition, we will visit a few genocide memorial sites and meet residents of one of the country’s reconciliation villages. Taking advantage of the many natural wonders of Rwanda, we plan to visit Akagera National Park where we will go on a big-game safari and potentially visit Nyungwe National Park for a chimpanzee walk, forest canopy walk, and waterfall hike.
Eligibility Requirements
Studying abroad requires a valid passport. You may also need a visa and/or other travel documents. It is your responsibility to ensure that all your documents are valid and appropriate to the nature of your program.
Minimum Requirements
- Minimum Cumulative GPA: 3.0
- Minimum Semesters: Minimum of 2 completed Northeastern semesters at the time of program start date. NUin students are eligible to apply. Transfer and Global Pathways students contact GEO program coordinator for eligibility.
- Possible Student Challenges: Rwanda is a low-income country. It does not have all of the amenities that we often take for granted (i.e. the hot water comment). Students will need to be ready to embrace whatever comes their way. To quote my friend Amy, “Don’t compare Rwanda, just love it.”
