CIEE Summer Ghanian Studies Program in Legon, Ghana

  Ghana

Legon

Term: Summer 
Dates: 7 weeks: early June-mid-July

Description: Through the Ghanaian Studies summer program, participants will gain an appreciation of Ghana's rich culture and tradition; learn how slavery, colonization, independence, and Pan-Africanism have influenced today's society; and develop a better understanding of Ghanaian people through the academic courses, co-curricular activities, and volunteer projects.

Academic Program
The seven-week summer program is based on the University of Ghana campus, and all courses are taught by University of Ghana faculty. The program provides an opportunity for students from all academic disciplines to live and study in Ghana, learning firsthand about the country and its people, while continuing to pursue their own academic goals. The program includes a community-based volunteer component designed to help students better understand Ghanaian history,politics, and societal values and traditions.

Academic Culture
Teaching methods at the University of Ghana typically involve a mixture of lectures and seminars. The system is geared toward the serious student who is motivated, self-sufficient, and deeply interested in the subject matter. Each course meets four times a week for two hours each session, with additional time reserved for student volunteer projects, program activities, and excursions. The Music and Dance Forms of Ghana course includes rehearsals, group work, and several performances.

Highlights:

• Spend a summer exploring one of the most vibrant countries in West Africa
  
• Take innovative courses in Ghanaian history, politics, music, and dance taught by faculty from the premier institute of higher learning in Ghana
  
• Learn firsthand about Ghanaian society through volunteer opportunities at local NGOs, schools, and other service organizations
  
• Explore Ghana's rich history and culture through a series of CIEE excursions to such places as Aburi, Cape Coast, Elmina, and Kumasi

Community Engagement
Community engagement is one of the central components of this summer program. CIEE resident staff arrange = volunteer projects for all participants in various organizations throughout the Legon and the greater Accra area. The projects are designed to give students a firsthand look at the challenges facing Ghana as a developing nation. CIEE has an established network of community partnerships with local NGOs, schools, and orphanages. Projects range from teaching English and math skills to young children or creating activities for children at an orphanage to working on training programs for young women or helping officials with urban healthcare projects. Students volunteer a minimum of eight to 10 hours per week.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Minimum Education: Bachelors

Cost in US$: Please check the CIEE website for current program

Experience Required: yes