Alex Mutura: "Going on a foreign exchange was the best decision I ever made"

Kenya native Alex Mutura is a student in Sciences Po's Europe-Africa undergraduate program, majoring in economics and societies.

Last year – despite the ongoing pandemic – Mutura embarked on a five-month academic exchange at South Africa’s Stellenbosch University. He shares his experience below.

My journey to South Africa for a semester-long exchange at Stellenbosch University was definitely my personal highlight of 2021. From my first moments at Sciences Po, I was set on spending part of my third year abroad in South Africa. Given its tumultuous history, geographical location, cultural diversity, and high ranking among the developed nations of the continent, South Africa seemed like the right place to pursue my study abroad. 

My exchange came at a time when I thought my undergrad had been derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic. So it was an opportunity for me to play catch-up and explore new surroundings, unfamiliar cultures, and most importantly, to establish my independence and prove my resilience as a young adult.

Flying in at Cape Town International Airport on August 1st, I was immediately struck by the country's cultural diversity. On the way from the airport to my residence, I took in the bustling streets while the cab driver doled out advice on where to go and what to do during my stay. Upon arrival, I was warmly greeted by my South African roommate, who had taken time out to make sure the apartment was in order. She went over the residence's safety guidelines and offered some quick tips on how to make the most of my stay. My integration into South African society was swift and seamless thanks to her constant help and guidance. My South African neighbors were also very welcoming. One of them – an amateur bassist – belonged to a band that practiced regularly at the residence. His apartment became a cherished hangout spot for enjoying their music and meeting new people.

The varied programming put together by Stellenbosch University's International Services Centre enabled me to network with my fellow international students and even take part in outings. For example, we went wine tasting and sightseeing at famous regional landmarks. I also joined an international hiking group – the area around Stellenbosch is quite mountainous, and so we got to trek along some really scenic trails together. Having hiked in high school, the club became one of my favorite leisure activities. Lastly, despite the COVID pandemic, I nevertheless got to experience the local student nightlife. The city center was full of buzzing nightclubs that were often packed to the rafters on weekends and during rugby matches.

I have to say that the experience that stood out the most during my stay was my participation in a community engagement program offered by the Stellenbosch International Services Centre. The program allowed international students to visit Songo.info, a community education center in the nearby township of Kayamandi providing after-school tutoring and BMX lessons to local underprivileged youths. International students tutored kids aged six and up; I mainly taught math, English, and life skills to high schoolers. The program afforded me a better understanding of South African society, especially with regard to the enduring legacy of South Africa's apartheid regime.

As a final thought, studying in South Africa was one of the best decisions of my life because, over and above the fascinating courses I got to attend, the country's cultural diversity and unique environment truly expanded my horizons. Since returning home, I’ve been telling all the students I meet to go and experience South Africa for themselves. As for me, I can't wait to go back and explore the country further.

The Sciences Po Editorial Team

Find out more

• Read also: "I gained an openness to other cultures": Meet Ofure Emmanuel Elomien
• Check out the video: "Racheal Lawrence: Educating Nigeria's Future Generations"
• Meet Hawa Diallo: "The Diaspora Has a Crucial Role to Play in Guinea's Development"
• Armande Pembele: Understanding and Taking Part in African Geopolitics