With the immense diversity of its cultures, landscapes and wildlife, South Africa is one of the African continent's most exciting nations. Since the end of apartheid in 1994, its economy, society and politics have undergone dramatic transformation. The country's modern infrastructure and excellent universities offer students a chance to experience this emerging society in a challenging academic setting.

South Africa has the strongest higher education system on the continent, and its multicultural universities are responsible for conducting most of Africa's research. Through radical reforms, the university system has been completely restructured to reflect the new priorities of post-apartheid society. The 23 public universities fall into three distinct categories - traditional, technological and comprehensive. More than half of the country's students attend the latter, a stimulating educational environment where academics are combined with vocational tracks up to the Doctoral level.

The largest higher education institution in the Eastern and Southern Cape is Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU). NMMU offers customized three-week programs that are specially tailored for groups of visiting students and accompanying faculty. Past fields of study have included photojournalism, business ethics and public health. Students interested in South Africa's history, culture and language may participate in an intensive five-week summer program that explores the country's heroic journey to democracy, its exceptional biodiversity and the customs and language of the Xhosa people.

The University of Cape Town is the oldest university in South Africa, and international students from more than 100 countries make up more than 20 percent of the student body. A wide range of courses in the humanities, sciences and engineering are available, with an emphasis on research and graduate studies. Cultural activities and community service form an integral part of all programs, insuring that students are integrated into campus life as well as the local environment.

Established in 1916, the University of Fort Hare, the oldest historically black university in Southern Africa, is one of Africa's most prestigious universities. It played a pivotal role in South Africa's political struggle, and this has been attributed to the many great minds that converged on this campus, among them former President Nelson Mandela. Recognized for its contribution to leadership development, the university attracts students of political science, as well as those interested in the arts, literature and medicine.

The benefits to studying in South Africa are numerous. Classes taught in English make studying abroad in South Africa a smooth transition. However, it is also a perfect place to learn a variety of African languages including Afrikaans and isiZulu. Often called the "Cradle of Humankind," South Africa contains some of the oldest archaeological sites in the world, several of which have contributed to the modern scientific understanding of human evolution. Students interested in anthropology, archaeology and related fields might consider the University of the Witwatersrand, which helps maintain many early hominid sites.

Students can gain much from the experience of living in the country's diverse and dynamic cities. Cape Town, the oldest European settlement in the country, has a distinct culture created through interaction between the settlers and the local San and Khoi tribes. The nearby town of Stellenbosch offers art galleries, concerts and festivals in the picturesque Jonkershoek Valley, and the Stellenbosch University is a popular study abroad destination. Johannesburg, Africa's commercial center, is a city of contrasts where skyscrapers tower above Indian bazaars and African muti (medicine) shops. It is also considered a gateway to destinations across Southern Africa, and is home to the Apartheid Museum. Durban, South Africa's busiest port, is one of the fastest growing urban centers in the world.

South Africa offers international students a rich opportunity for internships and community engagement opportunities. Although it has the most developed economy on the continent, the country still faces a number of challenges, including widespread poverty and a high-rate of HIV/AIDS infection. Non-governmental public health organizations, such as Soul City and loveLife, are playing an important role by implementing innovative programs to address these issues.

The government of South Africa heavily promotes participation in sport and recreation with the aim of improving the quality of life for its people. Water sports, mountaineering, cycling and golf are all popular activities, while cricket, rugby and soccer rank high among spectator sports. South Africa was the winner of the 2007 Rugby World Cup, and will host the FIFA World Cup in 2010. In preparation for this event, the government has made a huge investment in improving the country's infrastructure, including upgrading its roads and transport system and building new stadiums.

South Africa is famous for its breathtaking scenery, from long coastline and sandy beaches to sub-tropical forests and the vast Karoo scrublands. Home to more animal species than Europe and Asia combined and an overwhelming abundance of plant species, the country's wilderness will intrigue students of biology, ecology and environmental sciences. Students can explore the country's renowned wildlife reserves, or undertake a field study at at Kruger National Park. Kwa Madwala Private Game Reserve is a leading provider of conservation experience programs.

Between its excellent universities, diverse culture, natural beauty and wildlife, vibrant cities and booming economy, South Africa has much to offer study abroad students of all levels and fields of interest.

Resources -

IIEPassport.org:www.IIEPassport.org
IIEPassport Study Abroad Funding:www.StudyAbroadFunding.org
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program:www.iie.org/gilman
National Security Education Program:www.iie.org/NSEP
Arcadia University, Center for Education Abroad: www.arcadia.edu/abroad
Study South Africa:www.studysa.co.za
South Africa Government Online:www.gov.za