This hands-on experiential program will engage pre-med/pre-health students in shadowing as well as hands-on projects with Cape Town organizations involved in the research and delivery of health services.

South Africa makes for a great study in contrasts, especially in the context of healthcare. Although it has the best healthcare system in Africa, the country ranks 48th out of 96 countries globally. One of the biggest reasons for this is the stark inequalities in access to quality healthcare. But the country is poised on the brink of serious changes. The government is working to establish a national health insurance system to improve the nation’s health, make healthcare more affordable, and address inequalities between different socio-economic groups.

Students will work closely with various healthcare ecosystem stakeholders on meaningful projects aligning with their backgrounds and interest areas and often work in teams to accomplish project goals. In addition to the academic and professional growth through the projects, students will also experience local life and culture through guided cultural immersions that will set the stage for their own personal exploration of the region. All these will help the students grow into empathetic, well-rounded and resourceful healthcare professionals as they progress through their education and career.