Courses and Workshops

Postcards from Africa: Four Amazing Stories from a Vast Political Landscape

Darren Zook
Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (PT)
Repeats every Tuesday until Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2023
Note Schedule Change
Price: $155.00
23 slots available
Enrollment Closed

[Note from OLLI: Professor Zook's schedule has changed, and he will not be able to teach the course on the dates published in the brochure. Classes will now be held on Tuesdays, Nov. 14, Nov. 28, Dec. 5 and Dec. 12, from 10-noon.]

The sheer size of Africa inspires wonder and awe, even more so when one considers the diversity of peoples and politics that populate the vast landscape. This course will offer a sample of that diversity through an in-depth exploration of four very different countries, namely Morocco, Senegal, Nigeria, and Rwanda. Aside from discussing the politics, culture, and society of each of these countries, we will also examine the larger regional context within which they are situated.

Faculty Bio

Darren Zook teaches in political science and global studies at UC Berkeley. His areas of interest include comparative politics, human rights and international law. He has received numerous teaching awards for his creativity in the classroom, and was recently named one of the “Top Ten Most Inspiring Professors at UC Berkeley” by College Magazine. He lectures all around the world, and has published six books. He is currently at work on a research project involving the politics of ice in the era of climate change.

This is a Livestreamed + Recorded Course

  • Classes will stream live on the scheduled day and time.
  • Classes will also be video recorded.
  • Fee assistance is available if cost is a barrier. Learn more.

Schedule Highlights

  • Course takes place on Tuesdays, Nov. 14, Nov. 28, Dec. 5 and Dec. 12
  • There is no class on Nov. 21
  • Classes meet for four weeks, two hours per session (10–noon)
  • Videos will post on Fridays in Member Dashboards
  • All course materials, including videos, will be available to view and enjoy through Dec. 31

Member Praise for Professor Zook

Dr. Zook is one of the best teachers I've ever had and I'm 80!

Darren Zook is an amazing teacher. He's a well-organized, extremely knowledgeable, and always engaging.

I have taken several classes with Darren Zook and will take several more. His scope and depth of knowledge is extraordinary. And he is able to communicate it effectively and effortlessly. 

Faculty Q&A