Summer School "From Mine to Finger: A Deep Dive into the World of Diamonds", 28 August-8 September 2017, University of Antwerp, Belgium

From mine to Finger. A deep dive into the world of Diamonds is an intensive two-week programme, hosted by the University of Antwerp (UAntwerp) and the Antwerp World Diamond Center (AWDC). During the first week, a selected group of (max.) 30 students will follow a five-day course programme, hereby immersing themselves in every aspect of the world of diamond jewelry. Topics include the historical, geological, technical, economical, commercial and ethical perspectives of the global diamond trade.

During the second week, the summer school aims to practically apply the academic thread set out in the first week, this by offering participating students a variety of keynote sessions, workshops and lectures from experts in the field. The focus of the programme set-up in the second week is “innovation” in every facet of the global diamond industry, from mine to finger. The focus on sustainability is crucial here.

Throughout this two-week programme, students are expected to develop a report focusing on a particular field of study of the diamond sector, this in multicultural groups. On the final day of the programme each group delivers a presentation of their report to a professional and academic jury.

The summer school is primarily designed for Master students and final year Bachelor students who are interested in deepening their knowledge about diamonds and its industry. Participants looking for a relevant mixture of theoretical, empirical and practical insights from an interdisciplinary perspective are warmly encouraged to apply. The summer school is open to students and graduates from different disciplines.

Applicants are expected to have some prior experience with at least some of the topics on the programme. In the application process, candidates will submit an elaborate motivation letter mentioning their previous knowledge and the aims set by participating to the summer school.

Students can participate to both weeks or to week II only. For both groups specific learning paths are designed. 

• Week 1 and 2: maximum 30 participants. Limited number of spaces reserved for non-students, e.g. from mining countries, government institutions/miners.
• Week 2: Student track: maximum 20 additional participants (e.g. young professionals or researchers). Prior experience required. 

English is the language of instruction. As active participation is compulsory in the course, English proficiency is required.

Deliverables & ECTS credits

To keep the minds fresh and to maximise interaction, a wide variety of fun and interesting social activities will be organised during evenings and weekends so participants can make the most of their stay in Antwerp.

Participants will not only have the opportunity to get to know their fellow class-mates and staff in a more informal way, but will also be able to get in touch with peers attending other summer schools at the Antwerp Summer University. Some examples of these activities are a visit to the Jain temple, the Romi Goldmuntz Synagoge, receptions, guided city walks, a quiz, a football game or a day-trip to another Belgian city such as Bruges, Brussels or Ieper.

All activities of the social programme are offered free of charge, in some cases participants will be asked for a deposit which will be reimbursed upon participation to the activity. 

Application procedure in 4 steps

1. Register in Mobility Online
2. Fill in personal details, upload additional documents and complete requested extra questions
3. Wait for approval of your application
4. Pay the participation fee within 10 days after approval to secure your spot.

The application deadline is 18 May 2017.

Applications can be submitted by filling in the online registration form via Mobility Online. After having registered, you will automatically receive an email with further guidelines to complete your application.

Upon successful submission you will receive an automatic reply to confirm your application. Students will be notified about the results of selection at the end of May. Accepted students will need to choose their preferred case for the group works at the beginning of June. In case your application is accepted, you will receive an email with more practical information on payment and visa.  Note that your subscription is only valid when the participation fee is received by the summer school’s secretariat.

Accepted students will be registered as regular students of the University of Antwerp and will hence receive a student account and a student card with which they will have access to the catering facilities and to the Wi-Fi network of the University of Antwerp. 

Registration fee