Afrikaans language and culture: Dutch-speaking students

R6 423

The main objective of the course is an understanding of and appreciation for the Afrikaans culture and language. You will gain strategic and linguistic competency in Afrikaans, which means that you will know when to say what, and how to say it, when having a conversation in Afrikaans. You will also learn about the soul of Afrikaans – the diverse Afrikaans-speaking communities in South Africa and the variety of cultures within the different communities. We follow an eclectic approach that includes aspects of literature, history, politics and arts and culture. Be ready for anything from rap to recipes!

Course dates

This is a semester course offered twice a year during the official semester period of the University.

Contact Us

Facilitators

Helga Sykstus has more than 20 years’ experience of teaching Afrikaans. She is a passionate lecturer who enjoys sharing her love for language and culture with her students. She believes that language is a tool of empowerment, as well as a bridge to bring different cultures closer together.

Location

All sessions will be offered in Stellenbosch on the University campus, once we are allowed on campus again.

After having completed the course successfully, you will have a critical understanding of the Afrikaans language and culture within the broader South African context. You will have insight into issues that mean something for South Africans, particularly Afrikaans speakers.

This is a one-semester course consisting of four hours per week for 14 weeks. The course may also include a few outings, depending on the needs of the specific group. All classes are compulsory.

You only need your course material, which will be provided.

Dutch-speaking students from the Netherlands and Belgium who are registered students of Stellenbosch University.

For the initial application, you need to contact Helga Sykstus and attend the first meeting, which is scheduled during the welcoming week. See the Global Education Programmes (GEP) offering for more information.

Registration is done through the International Office, but contact Helga first.

After successfully completing this course, you will receive 6 ETCS credits.

We live in a world filled with people of diverse cultures. Learning more about different cultures helps you embrace and appreciate people who are different from you. This will enable you to meet, interact with, and make South African friends, but also give you a greater understanding of life in South Africa, especially with regard to the Afrikaans community and their role in a broader South African context.

The price includes all course material, refreshments and outings in and around town.