Mali (MLR) Program Links - 1 4089
Contact Us
Phone:
802.258.3212
Toll Free Within the US: 888.272.7881
TTY:
802.258.3388
Fax:
802.258.3296
Kipling Road, P.O. Box 676,
Brattleboro, Vermont USA 05302-0676
Mali: Gender, Health, and Development
Program Highlights
Mali, the largest country in West Africa and predominantly Muslim, is well known for its rich culture and stunning landscapes. Timbuktu, the Dogon and the Tuareg are all to be found in Mali. It has also produced worldclass musicians such as Salif Keita and Ali Farka Toure; who is touted as the "Bluesman of Africa."
Mali’s government officially became democratic in 1992; it is well known to international institutions as one of the most successful pioneers in political and economic reforms. Its liberal economy now attracts the world’s main governmental and nongovernmental agencies such as Save the Children, US Peace Corps, US Agency for International Development, and Plan International, making it an ideal place to study development.
Developmental Organizations
In additional to international development organizations, Mali has seen the creation of many female associations and local organizations. These organizations provide SIT students with opportunities to intern and contribute to this important work through their ISPs.
For example, students visit the Malian Association for the Defense and Rights of Women and meet the Malian women spearheading its work. The association addresses issues such as domestic violence and inheritance, and provides women with legal counsel. On some occasions students will be able to attend court cases managed by this organization.
The People
The openness of the people of Mali permits students to be friendly with many people, which in turn allows them to move around, travel safely and talk with anyone when ISP time arrives. Interviews are thus easy to conduct, and students quickly gain a deep understanding of Malian culture. Malians are known for being a peaceful and outgoing people.