International Students’ Perceptions of the Study Abroad Programme and its Influence on Possible Change of Attitudes

Abstract: The key research question guiding the study interrogated perceptions of the Study Abroad Programme (SAP) and probed the shifting and reshaping of international students’ attitudes towards South Africa. Specifically, the study explored whether, and in what ways, the SAP can be argued to have contributed to changing perceptions of South Africa. The minor dissertation argues that international students have important roles to play and (as alumni) could become important partners and associates of the institution. However, international students often encounter several difficulties throughout their integration process in South African universities and in the broader public environment. It is argued that universities should provide more initiatives to highlight relevant information and insights about South Africa and help international students make friends, participate, and adapt successfully. South African higher education institutions must provide a facilitating educational environment for international students and help to ensure that they promptly solve their issues and problems, as well as encourage them to tap into the potential and skills that they possess. Improving international students' wellbeing will guarantee that they learn better, address and fulfil their academic goals, and grow holistically at South African higher education institutions. In so doing, the host university contributes to personal growth and development – and possible mindset shifts.M.A. (Sociology