SUMMER STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM

ENTREPRENEURSHIP & SOCIAL INNOVATION (SOUTH AFRICA)


A 4-credit Global Field Engagement Course in South Africa

AT A GLANCE

  • Global Field Engagement Course
  • Disciplinary Track: Entrepreneurship & Social Innovation
  • Study Abroad Destination: South Africa
  • 2026 Dates: June 6-26 (8 weeks)
  • Credit: 4 U.S. credit hours (~ 8 ECTS credits) for eligible university students
  • Eligibility: Any field and level of study

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PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Explore social innovation in one of Africa's most dynamic economies
In this intensive 3-week program, students gain a powerful introduction to entrepreneurship for social impact in South Africa. Based in Cape Town, you’ll engage with local innovators and community organizations working at the intersection of business, sustainability, and inclusive development.

Through case studies, site visits, and collaborative inquiry, the program equips you with practical tools like human-centered design and sustainable business modeling. Whether you're new to social innovation or looking to deepen your skills, this program offers a high-impact learning experience in one of the world’s most culturally and economically complex regions.
Program Highlights
  • Field-based learning and expert-led sessions on entrepreneurship and innovation
  • Immersive cultural activities and community visits in Cape Town’s diverse neighborhoods
  • Hands-on application of innovation tools and frameworks
  • Engagement with local changemakers tackling real-world challenges
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ACADEMICS

Program Structure
This 3-week Summer I program includes one integrated 4-credit course, the Global Field Engagement in Entrepreneurship & Social Innovation. Students engage in field-based inquiry, critical reflection, and collaborative problem-solving as they explore how entrepreneurship can serve as a tool for sustainable and inclusive development in South Africa.
Learning Outcomes
By completing the program, students will be able to:
  • Understand the role of entrepreneurship in addressing social and environmental challenges
  • Apply key tools like design thinking and stakeholder mapping in real-world scenarios
  • Analyze the innovation landscape in South Africa, particularly in marginalized communities
  • Develop skills in intercultural communication, systems thinking, and ethical leadership
Further Details
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YOUR DESTINATION: SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa has emerged from its troubled and turbulent past into a healthy democratic country and the economic powerhouse of the African continent. At the same time, it’s a great place to witness a society going through dynamic changes, as it can still be considered both a developed and an underdeveloped country. South Africans forge a new identity, strongly embracing their unique multicultural character.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

South Africa as a social innovation lab
Students explore Cape Town’s dynamic social enterprise ecosystem - from township-based cooperatives and youth-led ventures to tech incubators and sustainability startups. Each experience offers insight into how innovation emerges from community resilience and local leadership.

Interactive fieldwork & learning
Learning is rooted in experience. Students visit local businesses and NGOs, engage with entrepreneurs and activists, and participate in facilitated sessions that connect field observations with academic frameworks. Projects emphasize collaboration, curiosity, and critical inquiry.
Cultural engagement & reflection
Cultural immersion is a central part of the program. Students explore Cape Town’s rich history and diversity through guided excursions, storytelling circles, and local cuisine. Reflection activities encourage students to examine their values, assumptions, and responsibilities in global contexts.

Skill-building for global impact
Throughout the course, students develop practical tools and a global changemaker mindset. From stakeholder mapping and systems analysis to professional communication and teamwork, the program equips students with competencies that are transferable across disciplines and careers.
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HOUSING & MEALS

The program includes 3 weeks in South Africa. For this time, GEI South Africa offers different housing options that students can choose from, pending availability. These include:

  • Homestays: Typically single rooms, with shared bathroom, and access to a kitchen and living room
  • Serviced apartments: Single or shared double rooms, with shared bathroom, and access to a kitchen and living room
  • University residence halls at our local partner universities: Shared double rooms, with shared bathroom and no kitchen facilities
  • Simple guesthouses: Shared double rooms, with shared bathroom and no kitchen facilities


Homestay host families typically provide breakfast and dinner. Students in serviced apartments, university residence halls, or guesthouses are usually responsible for all meals outside of core course meals.

You can find additional information in the following blog post: Accommodation – What to expect.

DATES, FEES, AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Program Dates

Application Due Date

Fees

Summer 2026 (3 weeks): June 6-26

Summe 2026: April 1

Summer 2026: US $3,650 (3 weeks)

At GEI, we strongly believe in equal access to academic opportunities in study abroad. In order to help eliminate financial barriers, we offer a variety of merit scholarships, trailblazer scholarships, and opportunity scholarships and grants, ranging from $500 to full tuition awards. Each year, GEI is awarding several hundred thousand dollars in scholarships. You can find further information as well as additional resources for external funding opportunities in the following blog post: Scholarships & Grants.

RWANDA

STAFF

All of our staff are highly experienced and resourceful professionals.
Yvan Rubengebenge
Center Director
Francoise Uzamukunda, MA
Academic Coordinator
Denyse Iradukunda, BA
Program & Student Services Coordinator
Rachel Irakoze, BA
Program & Student Services Coordinator
Espoir Baraka, BA
Student Life Coordinator
Janvier Muhire, MSc
Student Life Coordinator
Kelly Uwase
Student Life Coordinator

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