On 27 April 1994 South Africa ushered in a new democratic dispensation thus ending decades of Apartheid rule and paving the way for Nelson Rohlihlahla Mandela its first Black President. South Africa today bears the hallmarks of a new democracy that features challenges in just about every sector, including, health, education, housing, unemployment, etc. South Africa emerged from its past as one of the most unequal societies in the world and continues to grapple with its racist past.

On the other hand, South Africa boasts one of the most progressive constitutions in the world and is endowed with a very vibrant civil society and fiercely independent judiciary that hold government to account. This is a wonderful opportunity for students and faculty to experience first- hand and be integrally engaged in the process of reconstruction in South Africa.
Cape Town is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world and boasts Table Mountain as one of the 7 wonders of the world as well as Robben Island as one of the World Heritage sites.

The Cape Town Global Education Experience (CTGEE) is managed by South Africans who have been victims of Apartheid and are therefore committed to provide participants with an educational experience that results in a commitment to make a difference in their communities, countries and in the broader global village. In this respect we offer programmes that are fun, challenging, integrated, holistic and truly life-changing.

I now know being a global citizen doesn’t just mean traveling to different countries. It is not checking off places on a list. It is immersing yourself in the culture, meeting new people who come from different backgrounds and trying new foods, activities, and making yourself vulnerable. You cannot learn how to be a global citizen from a textbook. Global citizens ‘live’ it. If I could experience the past four months over again, I would in a heartbeat. Our house here in Newlands feels like home and these girls have become family. The next time you get the opportunity to travel- take it, and wherever you go, put the camera down and enjoy the moment instead.
- Brittany Kenyon Uconn SON Fall 2017.

During our first week in Cape Town, we were invited to a birthday celebration braai where we were greeted by an extended family and friends. Before eating an authentic South African meal, everyone at the braai gathered to savor the moment in prayer – an experience that opened my eyes to the importance family and faith values hold in this culture. A family member shared a South African proverb Ubuntu that translates in English to “I am because we are.” I was moved by the fact that, after only just meeting us UConn students that afternoon, we were already a part of that “we,” part of the loving familial community. Cape Town is not somewhere I’m studying for four months; it’s the newest addition to places I call home.

This second week the word "ubuntu" found a meaning in me. The people here have a sense of deep love for one another. A bond and hope to see each other overcome their obstacle. They thrive to ensure one another's happiness. I think our group has felt it too. We have become a family, learning from the Cape Townians how to be compassionate and happy. .
- Jonathan Figueroa Uconn May-June 2017 .
The things I’ve learned are things that are not taught in a normal classroom. They usually take many years for most people to realize them but I am glad that in those 4 weeks I learned them because they are valuable life lessons that have matured me into a better person. This entire experience is indeed a once in a lifetime experience and I would not have traded in my summer for anything else.
-Cynthia Tetleh Uconn May-June 2013