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The Association of Commonwealth Universities | ACU

ACU Summer School 2023: Truth and reconciliation

2nd July 2023

Stellenbosch University, South Africa

Applications for Summer School 2023 are now closed.


Host country:  South Africa
Host university: Stellenbosch University
Theme: Truth and reconciliation: from apartheid to transitional justice
Eligibility: Final year undergraduate students, masters’ students and PhD students at ACU member universities
Places: 40 available, fully-funded
Season: Winter in South Africa

ACU Summer School 2023 is a fascinating opportunity for students to learn about the political, social and economic forces that shaped 20th Century South African politics, including apartheid, with their peers from around the Commonwealth.

Hosted by Stellenbosch University, this is the first time the programme will take place in a winter climate.

Over the course of the week, students will:

  • Hear from leading academic experts who will bring the country’s complex and significant history to life.
  • Take field-trips to local sights, including Robben Island prison (where Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid campaigners were jailed), as well as the Cape of Good Hope nature reserve, a local winery, and more.
  • Make new friends from countries across the Commonwealth and enjoy social activities such as games nights, film screenings, a traditional South African barbeque, and more.
  • Stay on campus in Stellenbosch University accommodation and make the most of a life-changing experience at the ACU Summer School.
ACU Summer School 2023 - find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs)
A flavour of Summer School - last year's event

Students tell us they find ACU Summer School to be a transformative event. Take a look at our video from Summer School 2022, hosted at Leeds Trinity University in the UK.

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Travel Requirements

Vaccinations

The ACU recommends all selected students consult with their General Practitioners before leaving their home country for advice regarding necessary vaccination for entering South Africa.

Covid Regulations

Currently, South Africa is accepting all vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. It is essential to check your home country's policy when returning from South Africa.

Visa

South African visitor visas might be required depending on your home country. Therefore, we urge all selected students to arrange to obtain their visa approximately three (3) months before departure. Students will cover all visa fees.

Check visa eligibility.

Contact us

Please email us if you have any further questions regarding the ACU Summer School.

 Email: summerschool@acu.ac.uk

 At the ACU, we believe in building a better world through higher education. We join our member universities in collectively supporting the examination of colonial pasts and creating spaces where students and staff can imagine and then realise a better future for their communities.

[Stellenbosch University image attribution- Wikimedia Commons via ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-SA 4.0)]