INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR
For over 60 years, WUSC’s International Seminar has provided Canadian students with their first in-depth experience in a developing country. Since 2004, the International Seminar is being offered through the Uniterra program, a joint initiative of CECI and WUSC.
World University Service of Canada (WUSC) is a network of individuals and post-secondary institutions who believe that all peoples are entitled to the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to a more equitable world. Our mission is to foster human development and global understanding through education and training.
This year, the 63rd International Seminar will take place in Nepal between May 24th and July 2nd . The Canadian participants will be engaged in collaborative community projects with Nepali students, supporting the work of local organizations in the area of sustainable forests and livelihoods.
GOAL
With a hands-on approach to learning, the Seminar aims to provide participants with the opportunity to gain an understanding of a development sector, learn to work in a cross-cultural context and support the work of local partner organizations. This intense six-week experience in a developing country builds bridges to a more equitable world and empowers participants to become development advocates on campuses and beyond.
WHO PARTICIPATES?
Twenty Canadian students from across the country are recruited through a national selection process run through WUSC’s network of Local Committees. Selected participants must make a $3,000 financial contribution to cover a portion of the Seminar costs.
Four internship coordinators (2 Canadians and 2 Nepalese) will provide guidance to the participants on their community projects and coordinate in-country activities. Canadian participants will be paired up with Nepali students.
WHAT WILL THEY DO?
This year, groups of participants will conduct projects with 2 partner organizations in Nepal : the Federation of Community Forestry Users Nepal and the Asia Network for Sustainable Agriculture and Bioresources. They will focus their work on non-timber forest products (NTFPs) and alternative energy.
‘The Seminar’s proudest product has been better Canadians and better citizens of the world.”
