Dakar, Senegal

Dakar, Senegal and Paris, France: these two world capitals could not seem more disparate. But historical and social ties continue to link them in fascinating ways. Their association also allows us to think about several centuries of history, colonization, and shifts in population and migration. In this eight-week program, students will discover Paris and Dakar in dialogue, and explore artistic responses–from writers, film directors, and musicians–to new dynamic shifts in population and migration in both cities.

In Dakar, housing is provided with local Senegalese families. Excursions throughout the city and surrounding areas will immerse students in the contemporary culture in order to better understand the historical context of Senegal’s relationship with France. Conversational Wolof classes will help students engage with the local community. In Paris, students will live with French hosts and take courses at the BU Paris Academic Center, located in the lovely fifteenth arrondissement.

The courses offered in both cities explore the concepts of “home”, “here” and “there” in the literature, visual art, and cinema of West African artists in both cities. By living and studying in both Paris and Dakar, students will live two experiences and discover the interconnectedness of seemingly separate worlds. Like the sabar drumming for which Senegal is famous, history and heritage beat strongly in this African nation.