Overview
Now accepting Summer 2021 applications! At this time, we plan to host summer programs in-person. Flexible reservation options remain in effect for all programs including 100% deposit refunds in the event that a program is cancelled. Refer to the Ongoing Updates for COVID-19 Response page for more details.
Join a Zoom information session – every Tuesday and Wednesday, an APA team member is available to answer your questions and share program details. Sign up for a time slot.
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Discover Dakar: Spend an immersive six or eight weeks in the hub of West Africa–a vibrant crossroads of art, business, education, and humanitarian organizations. Follow courses taught by local professors on the campus of the Institut Supérieur de Management, share daily life with a Senegalese host family, and take part in a variety of cultural activities.
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Get to Know Dakar
Dakar Quick Facts
- Capital city of Senegal
- Official language: French
- Population: 1,030,594
- Currency: CFA Franc
- Average temperature: 80F
Dakar is the capital city of Senegal and westernmost city in mainland Africa. A former French colony, this Francophone influence can still be found in the language, architecture, and cuisine.
Family, music, and storytelling are large parts of this welcoming culture. Senegal is known across Africa for mbalax, a blend of Western-style jazz, rock, and soul with traditonal sabar drums. Hospitality, or teranga in the local Wolof dialect, is so important to the Senegalese that the national soccer team is known as the Lions of Teranga.
Orientation
The first three days in Dakar are comprised of an orientation with APA in order to get to know your new city. This will cover:
- Preparation & Guidance: exploring cultural differences and preparing for homestays
- Health & safety overview
- Walking tours of Dakar
- Finding your way: practice using taxis and public transportation
- Initiation in Wolof: learn key phrases and the practical use of this local language used in daily life
