The programme in African Languages and Cultures is unique in the Netherlands. During the first year all of the main study areas are introduced: language learning (Swahili) and linguistics, history and society, and media and the arts. Language learning is central to the programme. Besides Swahili, the “lingua franca” in large parts of East Africa, students also learn another, regionally-important language. The linguistic classes provide students with a deeper understanding of the structure of African languages and show the close link that exists between language and culture. The other courses, just as important as the language classes, include the study of African History (from 500 C.E. to the present day!), literature, media and the arts. In the summer following the first or the second year, students follow a course in Swahili in Africa.

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