Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/african-development–from-the-past-to-the-present
Coursera has long been a treasure trove for learners seeking to expand their knowledge across diverse fields, and their offering on African development is no exception. The course, ‘African Development – From the Past to the Present,’ provides a compelling economic history perspective on the continent’s complex journey. Over five weeks, this course meticulously navigates the critical historical events and decisions that have sculpted the present political-economic landscape of Sub-Saharan Africa.
What sets this course apart is its logical progression, taking learners from the pre-colonial and colonial eras, through the period of liberalization, into modern-day Africa, and finally, looking towards future prospects. It’s designed for anyone interested in understanding the forces that have shaped Africa, without requiring a deep prior historical background. The syllabus is thoughtfully structured, beginning with an introduction that clarifies the course’s objectives, structure, and theoretical underpinnings, alongside an overview of how the literature on African history has evolved.
The course dedicates time to the pre-colonial era, not to delve into exhaustive detail, but to provide a foundational understanding of long-term economic systems, state formation, and trade networks. This sets the stage effectively for the subsequent modules.
The colonial era is explored with a nuanced approach, acknowledging the profound impact of European colonialism while also recognizing the varied experiences across different regions and groups. It rightly problematizes and specifies this impact, delving into the agency of various European and African interest groups – a crucial aspect often overlooked.
The ‘Independence Era – Booms and Busts’ module masterfully covers the post-WWII period, charting the course from early independence movements to the effects of Structural Adjustment Programs. The central narrative here revolves around the persistent challenge of economic diversification and sectorial change, a theme that resonates deeply with Africa’s development narrative.
Finally, ‘Africa’s Current Challenges and Opportunities’ brings the discussion into the present. This module examines the significant socio-economic changes since the 1960s, thematically exploring population growth, urbanization, and regional integration. It critically scrutinizes current positive economic and political developments and concludes with an insightful discussion on Africa’s evolving role in the global economy.
Overall, ‘African Development – From the Past to the Present’ is a highly recommended course for anyone seeking a comprehensive and historically informed understanding of Africa’s development trajectory. It offers valuable insights into the continent’s past, present, and future, making it an essential watch for students, policymakers, and the globally curious alike.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/african-development–from-the-past-to-the-present