Senegal: National Identity and the Arts

Program Overview


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Experience the enormous contribution to African arts and culture made by Senegal, a nation that has inspired three centuries of poets, novelists, and artists.

Led to independence by internationally acclaimed poet and philosopher Leopold Senghor, this West African nation has long emphasized the role of art and culture in society.

With the capital city of Dakar as home base, students examine topics such as the role of Islam in Senegalese life, contemporary development and poverty, and the history of the slave trade. Arts workshops focusing on areas such as batik making, ceramics, and sand painting, or musical training ranging from Senegalese dance to traditional instruments, add a hands-on component. Homestays, a rural visit, and educational excursions to Sine-Saloum Delta, Gorée Island, Saint-Louis, and Petite Côte complement field and classroom instruction.

In-country resources and program partners generally include:

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