Pictured above: View from Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa
The Democracy Project is going to South Africa
June 17 – July 4, 2026
The Democracy Project at SOU is once again traveling this summer with students, faculty, and community members to visit another part of the world to study democracy. This year’s trip to South Africa is led by Margaret Perrow. Margaret Perrow is a Professor of English with both deep personal and research ties to South Africa, and is lining up an exceptional array of opportunities to connect with people, places, cultures, and history in this storied part of the world where democracy is still a fragile project.
Elephants at Kroger National Park, South Africa
The Democracy Project started in 2015 under the leadership of Prakash Chenjeri and Ken Mulliken, and it has continued with just a brief interruption from 2020-2022. Starting in 2023, the project continued under the leadership of Cherstin Lyon and Prakash Chenjeri, hosted by the Honors College at SOU. Starting in September of 2026, due to the closure of the Honors College, the project will move with Cherstin Lyon to be hosted by SOU’s History program.
What we’ll do:
- Learn first-hand about the history, strength, and fragility of South Africa’s post-apartheid democracy
- Explore Johannesburg, Soweto, Cape Town, Table Mountain, Parliament, Robben Island
- Meet everyday citizens, government officials, university leaders, NGO activists
- Experience wild-animal parks, museums, botanical gardens, cultural events, traditional cuisine
- And so much more!
Robben Island, South Africa
What’s included? Estimated cost for the program in South Africa is $5,000-$5,500. (Price may vary based on how many participants sign-up, and the normal fluctuations in the exchange rate). This includes accommodations, all meals, in-country transportation, all entry/event costs, supported reflection activities, and a full-time experienced local guide.
What’s not included? International airfare to and from South Africa, passport, personal spending money, travel insurance. Group pricing for airfare is available, or book flights on your own with the option to stay longer in South Africa for independent travel. Optional low-cost course credits available through SOU.
Who can go? Anyone over 18 yrs – university students, faculty, staff, community members.
Save your spot! $200 saves your spot now. This $200 applies toward the total deposit of $1,200 due no later than Dec. 30 to secure your spot. Remaining balance due Feb. 1 to travel.
Next Information Session: October 22 and October 30 at 6:30 pm by Zoom. sou.zoom.us/j/87071648643?jst=2
For more information, including how to pay deposit, contact Margaret Perrow, perrowm@sou.edu; or Cherstin Lyon, lyonc1@sou.edu
A group of students and faculty embark on a journey to India, visiting New Delhi and Bangalore as part of the Democracy Project at SOU.
