This is the second of a four-part series highlighting students and alumni of Africa University. You'll hear in their own words how Africa University has made a difference in their lives.
My AU Reflection: Ita Maureen Machanzi, Zimbabwe
Not so long ago, I remember how excited my family and I were about starting college. I remember the infrastructure at the university fascinated me. I was particularly fascinated by the Kwang Lim Chapel that looked like a miniature Great Zimbabwe. During the first week of orientation, my friends and I visited the farm, sports fields and up the mountain to the crucifix. We took endless pictures because the scenery was nothing short of perfection.
I never understood why we were taught certain courses at Africa University but after my one year of internship, I appreciated this. The Africa University curriculum is holistic. We learned about issues that are unique to Africa. My degree is relevant to my continent and the world at large. Ethics are what sets apart a graduate of Africa University and all the other universities. Our ethics are just not ordinary ethics but they are rooted in Christianity through the values placed on us by the United Methodist Church.
Through this institution, I have met peers, best friends, brothers and sisters from different nations. I learned to love Africa and I know I am capable of loving the world. I will forever cherish the relationship I had with my lecturers and how they held my hand through all my years at Africa University. Through the connection at Africa University, I know I am set for life. I am sad, however, that I am leaving Africa University but I am grateful that the community has contributed to building a new ME.
My AU Reflection: Rachid Aligy Ussen Mamade, Mozambique
The master's degree in Public Policy and Governance (MPPG) exceeded my expectations as it taught me a broad and multidisciplinary approach to public policy and governance issues. The MPPG has complemented my professional and academic background. The knowledge of public policy cycles has enabled me to understand government choices and activities and I am now capable of making meaningful contributions on policy issues which will directly affect my own people, the good people of Mozambique.
Being a student at Africa University made me a person with a very rich multicultural vision taking into account the cultural mosaic featuring the academic environment of University's campus. The human warmth and the different extra-curricular activities that the University promotes made me feel comfortable and helped me relive my home-sickness. Each time I was on campus, I was 1300km away form my home. But because of Africa University's diverse nature, I found my own people among me and life was so much easier. I was able to establish friendship with students from other African countries.
I am very grateful to the Institute of Peace, Leadership and Governance for the academic support. I am also indebted to the Open Society Initiative for Southern Africa (OSISA), for the master's degree in Public Policy and Governance (MPPG) scholarship that enable me to pursue the program. I am proud to be a part of the future leaders of Africa that are ready to change our continent for the better.
Africa University yearbook
One of seven apportioned giving opportunities of The United Methodist Church, the Africa University Fund transforms Africa by educating and empowering students from across the continent through Africa University, the first fully accredited, United Methodist-related educational institution on the continent. The Africa University Fund supports the general operating expenses of Africa University including faculty and staff salaries and vital infrastructure. Please encourage your leaders and congregations to support the Africa University Fund at 100 percent.
