Challenges Facing Student Exchange in South Africa

For the adventurous student a semester spent in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa may seem like the most thrilling experience ever imaginable and for many it is. The exotic allure of Zulu maidens and beating drums set amongst the pristine African landscape is an image straight out of National Geographic. The reality of living in a developing country even for a short period of time however, poses a challenge to many international first world students who struggle to adapt to an environment that is too far removed from their own. For many students the harsh reality of living in a third world country is just too much of a shock. It is not uncommon to find students opting to return to their home countries earlier than expected. The change in climate, cultural shock, poor security, lack of technology infrastructure and basic everyday communication challenges have all been attributed to a less than favorable student exchange experience. This research was therefore aimed at highlighting some of the documented challenges faced by the international sojourner in order to improve on the quality of the Student Exchange experience for all.