Ubuntu: Developing Future STEM Leaders With Michigan's Leadership and Technology Global Course in Cape Town

Area of Science:

• Global Education
• Leadership Studies
• Diversity and Inclusion in STEM

Background:

• The article examines the University of Michigan's first Leadership and Technology Global Course.
• The course was a 3-week study abroad program in Cape Town, South Africa.
• It focused on the experiences of gender-minoritized leaders in STEM fields.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the conceptualization, design, and implementation of the global course.
• To demonstrate the significance of diversity, inclusion, and cultural competency in leadership.
• To highlight leadership best practices through the lens of Ubuntu values.

Main Methods:

• The study abroad experience centered the perspectives of 12 participants.
• Qualitative data likely involved participant narratives and reflections.
• The Ubuntu philosophy framed the course themes and analysis.

Main Results:

• The course provided a platform for gender-minoritized leaders in STEM.
• Key themes emerged weekly, guided by Ubuntu principles.
• Participant voices offered counternarratives to traditional leadership and study abroad stories.

Conclusions:

• The global course successfully integrated diversity and inclusion principles.
• Ubuntu values offer a framework for understanding effective leadership.
• The study challenges conventional narratives in leadership and international education.