During this year’s International Education Week, the Center for African Studies (CAS) partnered with the UF International Center (UFIC) and other campus organizations to celebrate the richness of global learning and cultural exchange.
We kicked off Monday with a tabling session at the Reitz Union Breezeway, where CAS and UFIC connected with students and shared opportunities in African Studies. That evening, we gathered beneath the stars on Grinter’s lawn for an outdoor movie night featuring Dereve (2024), a Swahili-language film that offers a compelling glimpse into life in Dar es Salaam, exploring themes of class, labor, and social challenges in a rapidly urbanizing city. The experience was complete with popcorn and refreshments.
On Tuesday, we joined the College of Education for their International Education Day. The event included vibrant performances from the Pazeni Sauti Choir and conversations with students interested in global studies and the Masters in Sustainable Development program.
Wednesday brought a “Getting to Know Zulu” workshop led by our Zulu instructor, Phumelele Ndele, at the Institute of Black Culture. For those interested in continuing their Zulu studies, Zulu Beginning 1 will be offered this Spring 2026 under SSA4905 for undergraduates and AFS6905 for graduate students. Thursday morning, the Center for European Studies hosted a webinar where one of our ambassadors, Elena Ashburn, shared her study abroad experiences and answered questions from students curious about education opportunities in Africa. That afternoon, Professor Kole Odutola offered an introductory Yoruba session, adding another layer of cultural discovery to the week. Yoruba will also be available this spring under YOR1130 for undergraduates and AFS6905 for graduate sections.
We’re deeply grateful to our student ambassadors, partners, and all the collaborators who made these events possible. We look forward to continuing to build awareness of international studies across campus.