This francophone nation is located at the westernmost point of Africa. French colonizers implemented a policy of cultural and political assimilation in Senegal, putting energy into creating a democratic government. More schools were built in Senegal than in any other French African colony, and a Senegalese intellectual elite rose to prominence in the 1920s. Since gaining their independence in 1960, the Senegalese have maintained a stable, peaceful democracy. However, Senegal today is one of the most impoverished nations in the world: unemployment, illiteracy, and hunger are widespread. Caught between the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the fast approaching Sahara Desert, Senegal is poorly suited for agriculture and industry. While luxury hotels dot the coast around the capital city of Dakar, many Senegalese families crowd into one or two room houses and live in poverty.

The Project: In Dakar, cool breezes blow off the ocean, past fishermen hauling in their brightly-painted wooden pirogues. After a day in the capital city the group heads off along the coast to its rural host village. In contrast to the vibrant atmosphere of the coast, inland rural villages are often characterized by unemployment, hunger, illiteracy, and widespread poverty. The group makes its home in one of these small villages, working alongside local people on several much needed projects identified by village leaders. While exact projects will be determined in the spring based on the community’s needs at the time, past projects have included building a school cafeteria, planting an orchard of cashew and mango trees, implementing an irrigation system for the community garden, and teaching English to local children. Each student also undertakes an independent project; possible topics include how the village political structure functions, the Senegalese health system and the fight against HIV, or Senegalese music and dance. The group resides in a small house or school building and each day students help local women prepare meals for the group. Living conditions in Senegal are extremely simple and our accommodations are basic. Living and working alongside Senegalese villagers, participants have the opportunity to make lasting connections with their neighbors. Through impromptu soccer matches, dance and drumming sessions, and discussions over evening tea, students expand their understanding of Senegalese life and culture