ACADEMIC CITY

COURSE OUTLINE UC2201

SECTION 1: COURSE TITLE AND DETAILS

UC2201: African Studies

NUMBER OF CREDIT HOURS: 3

Contact details and hours of Faculty:

Instructors (Faculty):
Faculty Assist.
Mentees
Email addresses:
Lecture Timings:
Lecture Theatre:
Faculty Advisory Hours:
Faculty Office Location:
Contact Numbers:
Dr. Ransford Antwi ||Mr. Kwasi Agyeman-Duah
Ms. Edna Ahenfoa Aidoo
Ms. Naomi Kumah|| Ms. Mighty Ametsikor
Ransford.antwi@acity.edu.gh||david.agyemanduah@acity.edu.gh||
edna.aidoo@acity.edu.gh
Wednesdays: 08:35am – 11:25 am || 11:35am -2:25 pm
A-3, A1
By appointment
Dean’s Office, Opposite Room U-1
Dr. Ransford Antwi (0248820871)

SCOPE & SEQUENCE

The African Studies course is a one semester general course for all second-year students. There is no prerequisite for
this course. Students must be conscious of the environment they live in and how issues within that sphere impact
their lives.

SECTION 2: COURSE DESCRIPTION

Africa's history is deeply intertwined with the rest of the world, from ancient civilizations like Egypt and Carthage to
the era of colonization and the struggle for independence. Unfortunately, negative narratives such as poverty, disease,
and corruption have dominated the perception of Africa for far too long. However, a paradigm shift is underway as
African nations and individuals are reclaiming their stories, highlighting their achievements, and reshaping the global
perception of the continent.

This course gives a broad perspective of cultural, historical, ethical, political and geographical issues of Africa. The
course aims at helping students to:

(1) Rediscover and redefine what is means to be African

(2) Contextualize the African identity through the lens of history and contemporary events.
(3) Fight off stereotypes and other negative characterizations of Africa and Africans
(4) Chart a course for a future where the African plays a huge role in world affairs.

SECTION 3: COURSE CONTENT

The course content includes:
 Rediscovering Cultural Heritage
 Economic Resurgence
 Technological Advancements
 Environmental Stewardship:
 Political Transformation
 Tourism and Destination Branding
 Art, Music, and Film
 Youth Empowerment and Education
 Regional Integration and Cooperation
 Social and Gender Equality

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SECTION 4: LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, a student will be able to:

1. Debunk myths, misconceptions, stereotypes and misrepresentations about Africa and Africans.
2. Sift between propaganda and facts when analyzing issues on Africa
3. Rediscover and have confidence in the African Identity
4. Draw and identify the countries in Africa: Diversity as a positive rallying point.
5. Provide reasons why African Studies is a valuable area of academic pursuit.
6. Engage in discourses on pre- and post-independent African realities.
7. Develop a sense of self-determination in the global world.

SECTION 5: BOOKS
Textbooks:
1. Takyiwaa Manuh & Esi Sutherland-Addy (eds) (2013). Africa in Contemporary Perspective: A Textbook for
Undergraduate Students. Accra: Sub-Saharan Publishers.
2. John Reader (1998). Africa: A Biography of the Continent. Penguin Books: London.
3. Nkrumah, K. (1965). Neo-colonialism: The last stage of imperialism. Nelson and Sons Publishers

Suggested References:

4. Parker, J. and Rathbone, R. (2013). The Oxford Handbook of Modern African History. Oxford: Oxford
University Press.
5. Utas, M. (2012). African conflicts and informal power: big men and networks. London: Zed Books.
6. Meredith, M. (2011). The fate of Africa: a history of the continent since independence. New York: Public
Affairs.
7. Onunwa, U. R. (2010). A handbook of methodologies of African Studies. Pennsylvania: Red Lead Press.
8. Jideofor, Adibe (ed.) (2009). Who is an African? Identity, Citizenship and the Making of the Africa-Nation.
Adonis & Abbey Publishers Ltd.
9. Ostergard, R.L. et al (ed) (2004). Power, Politics, and the African Condition, Collected Essays of Ali Mazrui.
Africa World Press.

SECTION 6: ASSESSMENT BREAKDOWN

 In-person quizzes will be used often to reinforce concepts taught in class, and to encourage
students to keep on reading relevant materials on Africa and Africans.
 An online Mid-Semester exam to assess the understanding of students on the lessons learnt about
Africa and Africans.
 Presentations and Peer Critiques will allow students to apply critical thinking and analytical
reasoning in constructing arguments.
 A 2-page write-up summarizing what each student has learned during the semester in terms of
challenging their pre-conceived notions about their Africanness and the new paradigm shifts that
students have obtained by taking the course.
 A 2-page write-up on the educational trip to Cape Coast to familiarize students with historic sites
such as the Coast Castle and the Assin-Manso slave market
Component Percentage
Attendance and Participation 5
Assignments 10
Quizzes and presentations 10
Mid-Semester Project 15
Final Exam 60

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SECTION 7: ASSESSMENT DETAILS

Attendance: We will take attendance at class start time

Students will receive
- +1 attendance grade for each class where they enter on time or within 15 minutes after class start time
[15 minutes after start time, doors will be CLOSED and no more students will be allowed into class]
Class Participation:
- Points will be allotted to students based on
o Active participation and engagement in the classroom (noticeable to lecturer and classmates)
o Active participation in Diversity Day Activities
o Presentations during the semester (any form of presentation; student must be one of the key speakers
during the presentation)

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Continuous Assessments
Continuous assessments would be a combination of the following:
- Individual Assignments
 Will be assigned to students to complete and submit independently. This will help the students to work
within their own scope and environment.
- Team Assignments
 Will be assigned to students in groups to complete by working together through effective collaboration
and inclusion. The team tasks further seek to integrate the different categories of students (e.g.
Diversity Day activities).
- Quizzes (will be individual or team based)
 Pre-announced or surprise quizzes may be conducted that can be closed or open book. Also, tasks like
role play, debates and case study analysis may be adopted to test students’ spontaneous response in
the real sense.

Mid-semester Exam
- Will be in the form of an in-person sit in exam. The exam shall be taken online and the results available to
students immediately upon completion and submission.
Final Exam
- Will be a two-hour sit down exam at the end of the semester.

SECTION 8: RULES, GUIDELINES AND EXPECTATIONS

Decorum & Respect:
- Class decorum must be maintained at all times during class
 Respect the classroom, your peers and your faculty
 No food allowed in the classroom
 Students must be polite, respectful and professional in how they conduct themselves in class, treat their
peers, and provide responses to faculty and peers
 Students must maintain respect for the views and ideas of others (both faculty and students). Counter
arguments are always welcome however using respectful choice of words/tone and without discrediting
an opposing view
 “Respect the speaker” rule – when anyone is speaking (be it faculty or student) others must respect the
speaker by maintaining silence/decorum and listening to the speaker. Any responses should be after the
speaker finishes without interrupting the speaker

Assignment Submissions and Grading:

- All assignments must be submitted within the time allotted by the faculty
- If assignments are submitted after submission deadlines, a grade point deduction will be applied, unless the
delay was previously approved by faculty due to legitimate reasons
- When an assignment is submitted, faculty will provide a specific timeframe within which the graded
assignment will be returned to students, and all such return timeframes will be honored by faculty

Use of Electronics: All electronics, including laptops, must be switched off during class. Usage of such devices during
class will be tolerated ONLY at the instance of the lecturer.

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Assignment Due
Readings Due
Instructional Method(s) (all assignments
WEEK Date Topics (mandatory prior to
count towards
class)
course grades)
1 17.1.24 Introduction of the course: Preparations for African The African Genius; A Division of
Overview of the course outline. Diversity Week. speech by Kwame students into
Nkrumah. groups for the
(Inform students that marks will Africa Diversity
be awarded for participation) Day:
 Dance
 Poetry
 Creative Arts
 Music
 Fashion
 Food
GENERAL
2 24.1.24 The value of African studies in today’s world:  Game: Filling the blank Takyiwaa Manuh & Esi Blank map of
map of Africa Sutherland-Addy. Eds Africa x2
 Discussion: The African (2013)
Genius; A speech by
Kwame Nkrumah.

THE PAST
3 31.1.24  Africa Before the Europeans arrived:  You tube Video: West Takyiwaa Manuh p.13-
 Pre-colonial Africa. The great empires of Africa (Ghana, Songhai, African kingdoms of Ghana, 46
Mali, Zimbabwe, etc.) Mali & Songhay  Video (African
 Rediscovering Cultural Heritage:  Discussion on cultural History
Africa is home to a mosaic of diverse cultures, languages, and heritage: Past, Pre-colonial, Summarized);
traditions. The rediscovery of Africa involves recognizing and Present and Future  The true size of
celebrating this rich cultural heritage. Efforts to preserve and Africa
promote indigenous languages, traditional arts, music, and dance
are gaining momentum.

4 7.2.24 Defining Africanness and misconceptions about Africa. Videos. Activity:

 The rediscovery and redefinition of Africa encompass various  Peter Tosh: African

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dimensions, including tourism, art and culture, youth (reggae). Spot the African:
empowerment, regional cooperation, and social equality. By  Africans are not black: the FW DeKlerk
highlighting these aspects, Africa is reshaping its narrative, many races of Africa. Guy Scott & Obama
challenging misconceptions, and showcasing its true potential to  Theme Song: Jesus is
the world. The continent's journey of rediscovery and redefinition is “white”
an ongoing process, driven by the determination and resilience of  Are you African or African
its people, and it offers hope for a brighter and more inclusive American?
future.
Discussion

TRANSITIONAL PERIOD

5 14.2.24 Pre-Independent Africa: Issues and challenges (1940s – 1960s) The Film: Heritage Africa. Kwaw John Reader: The First Student
Great African Freedom Fighters and Liberators (Nkrumah, Naser, Ansah Dance of Freedom Presentations on:
Ghaddafi, Nyerere, Lumumba, Khama) Ghana
 The struggles against racial discrimination Discussion Congo
 The imprisonments of the independence movement leaders Nigeria
 Political Transformation: Play sections of movie in class. Rwanda
The political landscape in Africa is evolving, with increasing Full movie to be watched by Zimbabwe
emphasis on democracy, good governance, and human rights. students before class.
While challenges persist, positive strides have been made in 5 groups x 5
promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation minutes ea.

How did these

countries manage
to get their
independence?
6 21.2.24 Independent Africa (1960s-1980s) Song: Zimbabwe by Robert
 The fight and euphoria of “Independence” Nestor Marley.
 Foreign sponsored and backed coups against African governments
after euphoria (Mobutu against Lumumba) Video: Munashe Takawira
 Challenges and the Way Forward: Discussion
Despite the progress, Africa faces numerous challenges, including 15 Assassinations of African
poverty, inequality, and conflicts. Addressing these issues requires Heads of State.
sustained efforts from governments, civil society, and the

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international community. Collaboration, investment in education
and healthcare, infrastructure development, and inclusive policies
are crucial to realizing Africa's full potential.
7 28.2.24 MID-SEM EXAMS & BREAK (Mon 4th March to Tuesday 5th March) Mid-Sem. Exam to be held on
Wed 28th Feb 2024: Online
(Bring laptops along)
THE PRESENT
8 6.3.24  Youth Empowerment and Education: Africa has the youngest Identify 5 persons or
population in the world, and empowering its youth is crucial for its institutions of African descent
future development. Efforts are being made to provide quality that have made positive
education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship opportunities contributions to advance
to equip young Africans with the skills needed to succeed in the human civilization.
modern world. By investing in education and empowering the The Nigerian who owns Gatwick
youth, Africa is nurturing a generation of leaders, innovators, and Airport. Ogunlese Adebayo
changemakers who will shape the continent's future and Strive Musiyiwa.
contribute to its redefinition. Zimbabwean Billionaires
9 13.3.24  Regional Integration and Cooperation: African countries are
increasingly recognizing the benefits of regional integration and
cooperation. Initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade
Area (AfCFTA) aim to promote intra-African trade, economic
integration, and collaboration.
 Social and Gender Equality: Addressing social and gender
inequalities is an essential part of redefining Africa. Efforts are
being made to promote inclusivity, women's empowerment, and
social justice. African women are playing significant roles in
politics, business, and civil society, challenging traditional gender
norms and contributing to the continent's progress

10 20.3.24  Environmental Stewardship: Africa is home to breathtaking natural

landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife.
Recognizing the importance of environmental conservation,
African nations are taking steps to protect their natural heritage
 Tourism and Destination Branding: Tourism plays a vital role in
showcasing Africa's diverse landscapes, wildlife, historical sites,
and cultural experiences. Many African countries are investing in

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destination branding and marketing strategies to attract
international visitors
 Art, Music, and Film: Africa has a rich artistic and cultural scene
that is gaining global recognition. African artists, musicians, and
filmmakers are making waves internationally, showcasing the
continent's creative talent and contributing to the global cultural
landscape

10 EDUCATIONAL TRIP TO CAPE COAST ON THE 23RD AND 24TH OF MARCH

TO CAPE COAST, KAKUM AND ASSIN MANSO.

THE FUTURE
11 27.3.24 The way forward for the next generation Getting ready for REPORT
Recolonization? Trip to Assin
 Economic Resurgence:  Video: Prof. PLO Lumumba Manso Slave
Africa's economic potential is increasingly recognized. The Youtube Market and Cape
continent boasts vast reserves of natural resources, including oil, Coast Castle on
gas, minerals, and arable land. African countries are leveraging  Video: Invasion of the earth 27.3.2024
these resources to drive economic growth, attract foreign by our own creation
investment, and foster regional trade integration. Initiatives like through AI
the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) hold promise for
boosting intra-African trade and creating a more prosperous
continent.
 Technological Advancements:
Africa is experiencing a technology boom, with innovative
solutions emerging across various sectors. Mobile money
platforms, such as M-PESA in Kenya, have revolutionized financial
services, making banking accessible to previously underserved
populations. Tech hubs and startups are sprouting up in major
cities, driving entrepreneurship and technological innovation. The
continent's youthful population is embracing digital tools and
platforms, transforming education, healthcare, and governance.

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12 3.4.24 AFRICA DIVERSITY DAY (3pm to 8pm) To celebrate the rich culture of
Summary of the course: Africa. Activities include:
 Conclusion:  Dance
Rediscovering and redefining Africa is a collective endeavor that  Poetry
involves challenging stereotypes, embracing cultural diversity,  Creative Arts
harnessing economic opportunities, and addressing social and  Music
environmental concerns. Africa's story is one of resilience, innovation,  Fashion
and the pursuit of a brighter future. By promoting an accurate and  Food
nuanced narrative, we can contribute to a more equitable and inclusive
global society, where Africa takes its rightful place as a dynamic and
influential continent
10.4.24 REVISION WEEK
EXAM Final Exams Submission of final
Paper

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SECTION 8: ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

Academic City expects and requires all students to engage in all academic affairs with complete honesty and integrity,
which would create an atmosphere of trust and openness within our campus community that would further allow our
students to thrive and succeed through a collaborative spirit.
Academic dishonesty is a serious violation that would mandate disciplinary action, which would be determined by the
Head of Department or Academic City Judiciary Committee depending on it being a first, second or third offense for
the student, and could lead to failure in the course/semester or even suspension/dismissal from program.
A student shall be considered guilty of academic dishonesty if he or she:
- Uses, gives or possesses un-authorized aid during assessments in any and all forms including course
materials, textbooks, technology support, through other students, and so on.
- Obtains assistance from another in carrying out any academic work or vice versa when collaboration is not
permitted
- Presents false data or information, or fabricates any material in support of a research work or other academic
work
- Engages in plagiarism (i.e. taking someone else’s work or ideas to pass them off as their own). In cases where
external references are made, sources of such references should be specifically cited to clearly indicate the
external reference

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