The Global Classroom
The global landscape is changing.
As the world shifts from a US-dominated unipolar moment to a multipolar reality, African countries and others in the Global South are gaining visibility in world affairs. Despite this, many in the US and other developed countries still view the Global South through a lens of needing help rather than understanding. GLI’s global classroom programs are designed to change that perception.
Learners from the United States who participate in GLI’s global classroom program travel to Africa to broaden their perspectives, connect with their counterparts, and discuss some of the world’s most critical interconnected issues. Ultimately, these programs strive to inspire the next generation of global leaders to reimagine a world system rooted in fairness, equality, and mutual respect.
Explore Tracks
GLI offers a diverse range of programs to engage learners of all backgrounds and intellectual interests.
Kampala, Uganda
Kabale, Uganda
Musanze, Rwanda
Kigali, Rwanda
Kampala, Uganda Kabale, Uganda Musanze, Rwanda Kigali, Rwanda
Participants on this track engage in critical dialogue about international development efforts in the region.
They connect with organizations and individuals working in various sectors to examine development impacts in urban and rural communities in Uganda and Rwanda. Topics include power dynamics, “white savior complex,” and “decolonizing development.” Participants explore issues like poverty alleviation, agriculture, public health, and conservation to understand best practices in international community development.
Example Activities
Visits to local NGOs and social enterprises
Visit to the US Embassy in Kampala or Kigali
Visit to Makerere University
Tour of Uganda’s National Mosque and walking tour of Kampala
Engagement with GLI’s Community Programs
Dialogues with university/high school students
Tour of National Genocide Museum in Kigali and visit to Nyamata Genocide Memorial
Kampala, Uganda
Kabale, Uganda
Kigali, Rwanda
Kampala, Uganda Kabale, Uganda Kigali, Rwanda
Participants in this track delve into perspectives from the Global South and structural inequalities in the global system.
They discuss issues related to neo-colonization, climate justice, the debt crisis, health diplomacy, passport privilege, and global governance. The program explores relationships between the Global North and Global South focusing on great power competition.
Example Activities
Visits to US Embassies in Kampala or Kigali
Visit to Makerere University and African Leadership University
Tour of National Mosque and visit to rural Uganda
Tour of National Genocide Museum in Kigali and visit to Nyamata Genocide Memorial
Dialogues with university/high school students
Meetings with government officials in Uganda and Rwanda
Kampala, Uganda
Kabale, Uganda
Kigali, Rwanda
Kampala, Uganda Kabale, Uganda Kigali, Rwanda
On this track, participants interested in global public health meet with national and local health professionals to understand healthcare in Uganda and Rwanda.
They discuss pressing health issues and learn how local, national, and international partners are working to address them. The program includes critical discussions about foreign-funded health interventions and explores healthcare inequalities locally and globally.
Example Activities
Meetings with Ministry of Health Officials in Uganda and Rwanda
Visit to Mulago Hospital in Kampala
Meetings with NGOs working in public health
Visits to rural health clinics and hospitals
Site visits to GLI public health programs
Tour of National Genocide Museum in Kigali and visit to Nyamata Genocide Memorial
Kampala, Uganda
Lira, Uganda
Kabale, Uganda
Kigali, Rwanda
Kampala, Uganda Lira, Uganda Kabale, Uganda Kigali, Rwanda
Participants on this track focus on peace, conflict, and reconciliation efforts in Uganda and Rwanda.
In Uganda, they learn about the Lord’s Resistance Army conflict and the reintegration of former child soldiers. In Rwanda, they study the history that led to the 1994 genocide and reconciliation efforts.
Example Activities
Visit to Uganda’s National Museum and National Mosque
Walking tour of Kampala
Dialogues with former child soldiers in Northern Uganda
Visit to Barlonyo, a former Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp
Tour of National Genocide Museum in Kigali and visit to Nyamata Genocide Memorial
Visit to Reconciliation Village and Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial in Rwanda
Akagera National Park, Rwanda
Musanze, Rwanda
Kabale, Uganda
Mgahinga National Park, Uganda
Akagera National Park, Rwanda Musanze, Rwanda Kabale, Uganda Mgahinga National Park, Uganda
Participants on this track focus on conservation efforts in Uganda and Rwanda.
They get behind-the-scenes experiences and dialogues at national parks and explore the societal impacts of conservation, including economic benefits and displacement of historically marginalized communities.
Example Activities
Camping in Akagera National Park and tours from park guides
Meetings with National Park employees
Visits to historically marginalized communities and rural Uganda
Site visit to GLI’s model farm
Tour of National Genocide Museum in Kigali and visit to Nyamata Genocide Memorial
To express interest, send an e-mail to info@globallivingston.org
General Information
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GLI is an organization dedicated to providing transformative international education experiences for students. Our programs are designed to foster personal growth, cultural awareness, and global citizenship.
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GLI currently offers trips to Uganda, Rwanda, and Ghana.
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Our global classroom programs are open to all globally-minded learners. Since 2009, GLI has engaged thousands of learners in our programs. While we primarily engage high school, undergraduate, and graduate students, we also welcome nontraditional learners from all backgrounds. Each program is tailored to meet participants where they are on their educational journey.
Trip Details
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Our trips typically last between 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the specific program and itinerary.
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Activities include cultural exchanges, educational workshops, community projects, and tourist activities. Students will have the opportunity to engage with local development projects, learn about the history and culture of the region, and engage with community members.
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GLI works with partner institutions to plan trip itineraries and activities. Partners can choose from our unique travel itineraries and activity offerings.
Safety and Support
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Student safety is our top priority. We provide comprehensive pre-trip orientations, have experienced trip leaders on-site, maintain close partnerships with local organizations, and have emergency protocols in place. All students are required to have travel insurance.
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Each trip is led by experienced GLI staff members who are trained in student supervision and GLI’s emergency protocols. Additionally, local guides and partners assist in ensuring a safe and enriching experience.
Costs and Funding
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The cost varies depending on the program length and activities. The fee generally covers accommodation, meals, in-country transportation, activities, and project materials. Airfare and personal expenses are not included.
Application Process
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To express interest in a GLI trip, send an e-mail to info@globallivingston.org and someone will be in touch with you shortly.
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There are no specific eligibility requirements. We encourage learners of all backgrounds who are eager to participate in dialogue and culture sharing to partake in our programs.
Preparation and Departure
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A detailed packing list will be provided upon enrollment into the program. Generally, students should pack comfortable clothing suitable for various weather conditions, personal hygiene items, any necessary medications, and a sense of adventure!
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Yes, all participants will gain access to GLI’s learning management software where they will complete orientation modules to prepare them for their trip. They are required to attend a pre-trip orientation where they will receive important information about the trip, safety guidelines, cultural etiquette, and travel logistics.
Impact and Follow-Up
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GLI uses a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods to assess the impact of our programs on both students and the communities we serve. This includes pre- and post-program surveys and direct feedback from participants and community partners.
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Absolutely! After completing a GLI trip, you are a member of our alumni network where you will receive monthly updates from GLI, including information about professional and educational opportunities. Alumni are also invited to participate in virtual and in-person GLI events, such as speaker series and other gatherings.