Study in USA: KU Can Create First Hybrid Study Abroad Program, Thanks to $35,000 Grant 

The University of Kansas says the hybrid study abroad program can motivate students to study abroad. This move will help the students with higher education abroad. 

KU also reported that only 34 U.S. colleges received the grant. The Increase and Diversify Education Abroad for U.S. Students chose only 34 colleges. 

The IDEAS program is designed meticulously to create and expand study abroad opportunities. Meanwhile, it will also contribute to the equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion of the State Department. This will help America stay more engaged in foreign policy. 

Associate professor of Spanish and Portuguese, Luciano Tosta, and associate professor of history and African and African American studies, Elizabeth MacGonagle will develop the first hybrid study abroad program for KU. The university will offer the program by December 2024. 

The program will consider interconnections among history, race, and health in the African diaspora and Africa. Students will get to focus on Brazil, Cuba, and Nigeria. Students will know about the enslavement of Africans and social disparities. 

The location, theme, and hybrid format of the program will attract students despite their demographic. Students who are underrepresented are encouraged to take this program. 

ManGonagle says in an official statement that this move will diversify international education. She also added that a hybrid system will help students with more opportunities in learning about history and health. 

Purpose of the Program

Students can attend the first section online. During the first section of the program, students can virtually travel to Cuban and Nigerian cities. They can also watch videos and reach source materials. 

After that, students can spend two weeks in Salvador. Students can participate in excursions and seminars there that will showcase cultural and historical elements. Students can also witness the education, religion, art, and music of Salvador. Tosta said this course will create a bond between Africa and the African diaspora.

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