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Learning onboard

World’s only ocean varsity docks in Cape Town

Wed, 27 Feb 2008 12:57

The world’s only ocean-based academic program will arrive in Cape Town. More than 200 university students and faculty representing 35 countries will spend six days in the Mother City conducting academic field study, community service and independent travel.

Students aboard the Scholar Ship spend a semester aboard a 201-meter ocean liner in an intercultural living and learning environment. During their 16 week voyage, the group stops at approximately 8 ports around the world. Stops during the current voyage include China, Seychelles, Spain and Turkey before docking in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

While in South Africa, the Scholar Ship students will take part in a two day academic symposium entitled “Confronting the HIV/Aids Epidemic: Policy Responses in SA and India.”

Organised in partnership with the University of Cape Town, the symposium will be presented by leading scientists and researchers. It is expected to provide insight into mitigating the socio-economic impact of HIV/AIDS by imparting findings on successful initiatives that private and government sectors of Asian countries, such as India, have previously undertaken.

The Scholar Ship Research Institute will also host a capacity building workshop onboard the ship for young African scientists. The objective is to promote science-based responses by Africans to challenges and opportunities facing their continent.

The World Association of Young Scientists has invited participants from several countries across the African continent, including Burkina Faso, Cameroon, South Africa, Kenya, Mauritius and Zimbabwe.

The Scholar Ship’s voyages commence twice a year in January and September. Itineraries vary from voyage to voyage, but all are planned to provide engaging learning experiences through a port program that complements the curriculum onboard.

The Scholar Ship has launched a R15 million bursary and financial aid fund to broaden the availability of the program to students from economically diverse backgrounds. Grants are awarded based on academic merit and financial need.

For additional information, visit www.TheScholarShip.com, or email Study@TheScholarShip.com This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

- Source:GoodNews SA