Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Women, Culture, Agriculture, and Development in Rural Nepal
Trip Leaders
- Dr. Ramesh Balayar | cell: 515-509-5213 | email: rbalayar@iastate.edu
- Dr. David Peters | cell: 515-538-0869 | email: dpeters@iastate.edu
CALS and LAS Study Abroad
- Jodi Cornell, Director | office: 515-294-1851 | email: jcornell@iastate.edu
- Mercedes Serracin, Director | office: 515-294-1162 | email: mlst@iastate.edu
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Overview
May 20 to June 15, 2026. 5 credits.
Our summer study abroad program will provide a unique opportunity to explore the intricate connections between culture, gender, agriculture, and international development in rural Nepal. The preparation course includes 4 weeks of instruction in the Nepali language. Students will earn 5 credits, registered under spring term (no summer tuition applies).
Students will travel to far western Nepal in Achham and Doti districts. Students will immerse themselves in local communities for 3 weeks, engaging with families, farmers, small businesses, local NGOs, and local government officials. Using a social science perspective, students will critically analyze past and present development policies, particularly those supporting women and sustainable rural livelihoods.
For relaxation, students will also hike in the Khaptad National Park, followed by a few days of rest in the resort town of Pokhara.
Following fieldwork, students will engage with Nepali government agencies, development workers, and elected officials, rigorously reviewing development practices and theories. Next, students will fly to Thailand to spend a few days with the UN Women’s Office in Bangkok to discuss global development policy.
This immersive experience, from grassroots implementation to high-level policy engagement, will equip students with a robust understanding of women’s empowerment issues and the overall international development initiatives.
Itinerary for Summer Break 2026
PDF Version – Nepal_Intinerary_Summer2026.pdf