In doing its bit towards the war on xenophobia, the Ecotourism Department in the University’s Midlands Centre recently held an exhibition which explored all 54 African countries including their respective cultural dynamics, currency, and cuisine.

The exhibition, which was an academic project assigned to Ecotourism Practice 1 students, was titled Project Africa 2015. The event was held earlier this month (May) on the Riverside Campus’ Main Hall.

“We thrive to make our students look for innovative programmes and workshops underlining social and environmental issues and educate the public at large,” said Thulile Ndlovu from the Department. “This would help students establish contact with their immediate environment or link between educational institutional and the community at large. The exhibition was largely influenced by the recent xenophobic attacks that have tarnished the image of South Africa. The Ecotourism team tries harder in making students not only successful, competitive and employable graduates but also responsible South African citizens,” she said.

At the exhibition, each group had a stand where cultural and tourism related aspects of each given African country were displayed. This also included traditional attire and holiday destinations, as well as a placard with a message condemning xenophobia.

After the exhibition, students marched around campus with their placards to create awareness amongst fellow students about the seriousness of xenophobia and how it affects not only the reputation of South Africa, but all those who live in it as well.

Speaking on the outcome of the event, Ndlovu said, “Students are able to relate the syllabus content with actual and current affairs and understand how these affect them and society at large. Putting theory into practice creates a platform for creativity and resourcefulness amongst students”.

– Thulile Ndlovu