Senegal: Postcolonial Urbanisms

Program Description

Study abroad with a course that delves into urban growth in cities of Senegal, West Africa. The course examines development in a postcolonial global south because these communities are experiencing periods of transformation that challenge the socio-political lives, environment, and urban planning of local communities. Senegal is an excellent case study because it is a strong democracy in Africa and has an established urbanization history as well as a specific development direction.

This course will use theory and experience to examine how postcolonial cities operate, from the triumphs to the challenges.

Highlights

Through a combination of readings, lectures, and field visits, we will explore the legacy of colonialism and unpack key contemporary challenges faced by urban planners and residents. Trips will include a visit to World Heritage Site Gorée Island, the Dakar municipal garbage dump, a traditional fishing village, and a hip hop community center. We will also take excursions outside of Dakar to the cities Saint Louis and Touba. Our class will meet daily and field visits will occur throughout the week and on weekends. Through seminars and field trips, we will consider challenges and approaches to development from a variety of actors, including governments, NGOs, and grassroots organizations.

What`s Included

The class is taught in English. To help students interact with Senegalese residents, survival French and Wolof language instruction will be offered, but proficiency in French or Wolof is desirable. Students will live in a hotel for part of the program and will spend some time living in a homestay with a Senegalese family.

Additionally, students will be required to travel to and from Senegal on group flights arranged by New York University.

Course takes place May 24 - June 15, 2016
4 academic credits
Students are required to stay in program-arranged housing.