Co-Constructing Knowledge in Uganda: Host Community Conceptions of Relationships in International Service-Learning

Background: The social justice goals of service-learning programs are often contingent upon strong relationships with host community members. Given this common narrative, it is necessary to extend our understanding of relationships in international service-learning (ISL), particularly as they are conceptualized by host community members. Purpose: This study engaged seven Ugandan coresearchers in a participatory project to examine the community impacts of a long-term ISL program facilitated by the University of British Columbia (UBC) and based in Kitengesa, Uganda. Methodology/Approach: Thematic analysis of photovoice data from photos, interviews, and focus groups reveals key impacts that are premised on friendships, educational relationships, and relationships for social change. Findings/Conclusions: The article illustrates a host community conceptualization of ISL that positions relationships not as a precursor to ISL done well, but as the success in itself. Extending from this study is a critical discussion of the nuanced, social justice-oriented tensions that arise in the participatory research and co-analysis process.