Global Service Learning Program in Zambia
The ILR Global Service Learning Program in collaboration with the Global Health Program offered ILR students the opportunity to participate in a six-week summer GSL program in Lusaka, Zambia. During the summer of 2013, a group of 4-6 ILR students and Global Health minors will conduct research projects at the Southern African Institute for Policy and Research (SAIPAR). The students will work in small groups to write a research paper on an issue relevant to Southern Africa, which will then be considered for publication in one of SAIPAR’s online journals. Students may also assist SAIPAR with other projects, to be determined by the Director of Research and Programs. Cornell University Global Health Program is offering ILR students the opportunity to participate in a six-week summer GSL program in Lusaka, Zambia.
Possible research topics include, but are not limited to:
- The process behind the introduction of Statutory Instrument 47 (2012), which is the revision of the minimum wage. Who was consulted, why did the government choose to introduce it unilaterally and what tension did it create with the various stakeholders (employers, trade unions, etc.).
- The impact of the revision of the minimum wage, sector-specific (e.g. the construction sector, commercial farmers, etc). Examine the impact in terms of resulting conflict/tension in the workplace and job-losses.
- The process behind the drafting of the new constitution and the responses from the public (civil society) to the draft constitution (specific topics could be women's rights, e.g. abortion).
- Judges at the local courts (where most domestic cases are dealt with) are predominantly male. What are the implications for women, in cases dealing with divorce settlements, gender-based violence, abortion, etc.?
When not working on their projects, students will have the opportunity to visit and volunteer at a number of different organizations in Lusaka. In the past, students have had extremely rewarding experiences at the Planned Parenthood, the Mulumbo Children’s Education Center, the Mother Teresa Orphanage, and the Italian Orthopedic Hospital. In addition, students in the past have joined their Zambian colleagues on excursions both in and around Lusaka.
All Cornell students live together in a guesthouse at the Italian Orthopedic Hospital in Lusaka. The guesthouse is situated within the Hospital compound, which is very well protected and safe. The guesthouse is overseen by a number of nuns who also live on the compound, who are extremely friendly and helpful.
Costs
ILR students selected for the program will receive a scholarship to cover the of cost of room & board in Lusaka. Students must pay for their flights, visas, and immunizations. There is a global service learning competitive grant to cover part or all of the flight.
The Zambia Global Health program is managed by the Global Health Program in the Division of Nutritional Sciences. ILR students interested in applying to the Zambia Global Health program should contact Donna Ramil, Associate Director.
Requirements
3.0 GPA and successful completion of Labor and Employment Law by the end of spring 2013. Key qualities and skills: service-mindedness, flexibility, cultural sensitivity, adaptability, maturity, excellent research and writing skills, ability to work in teams, prior international experience a plus. Seniors returning to ILR in Fall 2013 are eligible.
