A group of African Studies students cleared up myths and misconceptions about Africa a presentation Wednesday afternoon. The group also presented on the different African programs offered on campus.

"Some people say Africa is a dark continent, the forgotten continent," said Simon Nyambura, graduate student in political science. "It is a country of the 21st century."

The group presented in the K-State Student Union as part of International Education Week.

During the presentation, nine panel members introduced the audience to Africa and the need to study the continent and its culture.

Nyambura said they have a beautiful continent and tourists can see wildlife in their natural environments. Typically, he said, Americans see animals in cages and zoos, but in Africa you have to watch out for them.

He also spoke about the abundant natural resources, like oil, available in Africa.

Trade with Africa was a reason to learn Swahili, a dominant language in Africa, he said.

"After the Middle East, if you can speak an African language, you will get oil," Nyambura said.

Valerie Stull, a graduate student in public health and nutrition, also spoke. Her presentation emphasized volunteer experience in Africa.

She has traveled to Africa three times, where she volunteered to help with medical care and conducted research.

"By no means are you just giving to them," Stull said. "They are giving back to you."

Stull said the United States may not be the solution to some of Africa's problems, but rather the part of the problem. She said she enjoys the community atmosphere, handshaking, and greetings.

Stull emphasized while students in the African Studies program may be in Kansas, they can still contribute to helping Africa. While in Africa, she surveyed people about living conditions and medical care. She is writing a report based on her research to send back to organizations in Kenya so that Africans may benefit from her work.

"We try to find solutions to change the situations," she said.

Nancy Muturi, assistant professor of journalism and mass communications, informed the audience of the current program that K-State is offering for students.

Currently, students can select African Studies as a minor, and in the fall of 2010, she said they plan to offer a certificate program.

Through each option, a study abroad experience is required for fulfilling the requirements. Muturi said there are a number of government grants that will help pay for students to study in Africa.

For the African Studies minor, students must take at least eight hours of Swahili, French, Portuguese or another indigenous African language.

"I decided to take Swahili to get out of the zone of European languages," said Sarah Klankui, graduate student. "Learning another language can never be bad."

Nick Istas, graduate student, said after his experience in Africa, he has begun to eat different things. During his time in there, he had the opportunity to work with a popular local music artist.

"It was a really fantastic experience," Istas said.

At the end of the presentations, Philip Mzava, graduate student and president of the African Student Union, spoke about the ASU's mission.

"We come from far away and don't have anywhere to go," he said. "The ASU is a place for us to share experiences."

He said the ASU is open to any members, not just Africans. The union tries to remain active by holding dances, sharing food, and holding African Night once a year, at the end of the Spring semester."

Students interested in the African Studies program can contact Professor Emizet Kisangani within the political sciences department.