Betty Ann Levy could see the opportunities for partnership between McMaster and institutions in South Africa as soon as she began touring the country's mental health clinics and universities.

The professor emeritus and former chair of the psychology department took part in a visit to the developing African country organized by People to People, an American sponsorship group, and the American Psychology Society last summer. She was so impressed with the graduate students and faculty she met while there that she decided to organize an exchange.

"They were looking to build their knowledge in neuroscience and neuropsychology, which is a strength at McMaster," said Levy. "So it was clear that they would benefit from a visit to campus, and we would benefit from having them, so it made perfect sense."

Levy then organized internships for Prof Nafisa Cassimjee, a faculty member at the University of Pretoria, and Catherine Govender, a graduate student. The two spent time at McMaster through June and July, working with University researchers Patrick Bennett, Allison Sekuler, Allison Niccols and Louis Schmidt in areas such as aging, HIV, and social deviance and disorders. They were able to learn everything from the basics of running a lab to McMaster's approach to involving students in research.

"It was a bit daunting at first," said Cassimjee of the sheer amount of information they were faced with absorbing. "But we learned a lot that we'll be able to apply back home."

One aspect of the experience that particularly interested the visitors was the level to which McMaster students are involved in laboratory research.

"Seeing undergrads go through the process has been very exciting," said Govender.

"It really teaches students to take control of their own learning," said Cassimjee. "It shows that the institution is going to meet them half way, but that students have to take responsibility for their education ."

The two hope to be able to give back to McMaster by inviting students from the University to visit their country in the future. Levy said she's hoping to develop the program and continue to bring faculty and students from South Africa to campus.

"These interactions can have great impact," said Levy. "It was an enlightening experience for us, and I know it was for them as well."