Office of International Programs launches the Year of South Africa with tailgate on Sept. 3

Published: August 23, 2022

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The Auburn University International Cultural Center in the Office of International Programs dedicates each year to the study of a particular country or region to share the rich variety of cultures around the globe with the Auburn community. The 2022-23 academic year is the Year of South Africa.

In honor of South Africa and its rich traditions, the International Cultural Center invites Auburn University students, faculty and staff and the wider community to join in the Year of South Africa festivities throughout the fall semester.

• Tailgate: Sept. 3 from 3–6 p.m. on Spidle Lawn at the corner of Mell St. and Roosevelt Dr. – Featuring traditional South African cuisine, music and dance with performances by a renown South African band.

• Culture and Cuisine Class: Sept. 20 from 5:30–8 p.m. in the Rane Culinary Science Center, 312 – Prepare a traditional South African meal while learning about the country’s rich culinary history.

• International Cultural Café: Sept. 29 from 2:30–4 p.m. in the Foy Hall Lobby – An informal and relaxed forum for cultural expression and education conducive to an inclusive and culturally competent university community with a focus on South Africa’s culture, current events and trivia.

• Window to Your World Seminar: Nov. 16 from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. in Student Center, 2222-2223 – Free lunch seminar with a presentation about South Africa’s role in social justice and other current global issues and events.

“This program is important to internationalizing Auburn’s campus and engaging local and global communities,” said Adeola Fayemi, manager of Diversity and Inclusion and the International Cultural Center. “The cultural events help students break down stereotypes, build connections across cultures and develop the intercultural competencies needed to be globally competitive and responsive in today’s complex, interdependent world.”

In addition to the fall activities, the International Cultural Center will be offering several Year of South Africa events throughout the spring semester.

Submitted by: Kalani Long

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