Ghana: Social Transformation and Cultural Expression

  Ghana

• Accra: 
Accra

Term: Fall, Spring 
Dates: September to Decenmber/February to May

Description: Ghana is a nation with a rich history and strong sense of identity. One symbol of this heritage is the Asantehene's Golden Stool, the king's seat, which represents the political and spiritual center of the Ashanti people. Craftspeople weave cultural traditions into the kaleidoscope of colors in kente cloth, and create carved wooden stools, bronze casting, and glass beads. Musicians and dancers draw on their heritage to produce inspiring pieces for ceremonial events and popular enjoyment. Ghana's successful fusion of the traditional and contemporary in many aspects of daily life make it a fascinating place to explore its cultures and art forms.

Kumasi, site of the palace of the Ashanti king and one of West Africa's largest cultural centers, is surrounded by villages whose artisans specialize in goldsmithing, wood carving, cloth printing, pottery, and weaving. Accra, the nation's capital, boasts a renowned community of dancers, musicians, and artisans whose work is supported by entities such as the Institute of African Studies and the School of Performing Arts at the University of Ghana. In these welcoming and thriving artistic centers, students explore the rich cultural heritage of this vibrant nation.

Highlights: Two-week homestays in both Accra and Kumasi. Educational excursions to a rural village in the Ashanti region; Cape Coast, the Volta region, the Kakum National Forest,and the Tamale and Mole National Park.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to American and Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Ghana Independently or in Groups

Scholarships are Available.

Application Process Involves:

• Essay
• Letters of Reference
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Job and Internship Network

SIT Study Abroad's Mission Statement: SIT Study Abroad is the accredited higher education institution of World Learning, a private, nonprofit international organization promoting international and intercultural understanding, social justice, and economic development through education, training, and field projects around the globe. SIT prepares students to be interculturally effective leaders, professionals, and citizens through SIT Study Abroad, undergraduate, field-based academic programs operating in more than 50 countries worldwide, and thorough short-term professional training and graduate degrees in language teaching, conflict transformation, international education, social justice in intercultural relations, management, and sustainable development.

Year Founded: 1932