abroad in africa Harding’s international programs greatly affected many students’lives, both personally and academically. Each program offered a unique, once in a lifetime opportunity, and for those traveling in 2007, there were no exception. Harding in Zambia (HIZ), the newest addition to Harding’s overseas programs, offered 24 students the opportunity to understand missionary needs in Africa. While living in Zambia, students worked with the Namwianga Mission and stayed in a compound that included the George BensonTeachers College,an elementary and high school,a medical clinic,several orphanages and a shelter for infants and toddlers who had lost their mothers to AIDS. Many of the classes offered were specific to education and health care majors.Among some of the lessons included in the Humanities course were African history, anthropology,Tonga lessons and African literature.Guest lecturers included a converted witch doctor and a traditional herbalist who led students on a walk through the woods. “I feel very good about the courses we’re offering,” Dr. Monte Cox, a professor in the College of Bible, said. “[It is] a rare opportunity for our students to study an African language (Chitonga) for academic credit, to learn about African history, music, literature and folklore from African professors that Roy Merritt, life-long missionary to Zambia, invited to address his humanities course.” Students attended classes each morning and then were able to split into groups relative to their majors, allowing them to apply classroom learning to the real world. Another aspect of the program was the opportunity for students to stay in the homes of Zambian natives. Students split up and stayed with their host families for a weekend. The semester concluded with a two-week tour of East Africa, which included visiting Victoria Falls, going on a safari, traveling through Kenya and stopping at mission points along the way. Dr. Jeffery Hopper, dean of international programs, said that Africa was the right fit for the fall semester. “Africa is highly receptive to the gospel, in great need that way, and every other way,”Hopper said. Students interested in Zambia had to meet greater requirements in comparison to other international programs, including a 2.5 GPA, a cultural sensitivity test, completion of Skills for Health Missions and Development Ministry (also known as HUT), as well as an interview with Dr. Monte Cox. Harding in Zambia offered its students the rare and exciting opportunity to make a true difference in the world. “The goal is for our students to develop the tools necessary for long-term mission work, especially in the health care industry,”Hopper said. [Danielle Kanipe] Zambia program provides unique opportunities 46 [student life]
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