GHANA
Under the hot blistering sun of Kumasi, Ghana lies ZIS’s sister school: The International School of Bosomtwe. With hot temperatures trapped in the dusty red ground and lush green plants surrounding the buildings, smiling faces are not hard to find at this colorful school.
This Care Trip will take you to Ghana where you will help with a range of projects, such as building facilities, teaching classes, and playing with children, this would all become a major part of your day. Many students are well acquainted with Ibi Oubda one of the lower school teachers at BIS.
Building takes hard work and dedication, so be prepared. “With these service trips students focus on where they are needed,” said Mr. Kirkwood; he also noted on how hard to have experience in a service project in Switzerland. Therefore, this would be an ideal opportunity for students to experience helping other people on a global scale.
Students also have an opportunity to explore the markets and experience the vibrant local culture. Yet, this is not the main focus of your trip.
Although the days are hot, the nights get cold, due to the air conditioning of the rooms. Long sleeves should be considered for protection from mosquitoes. And students are constantly advised to drink a lot of water in order to avoid falling victim to heat stroke.
Students have a lot of downtime, and phones are never taken away. “The food may look intimidating, but don’t knock it till you try it,” said Matteo Mastrangelo. Mastrangelo also noted that the food choice is very accommodating, so vegetarians and students with dietary requirements need not worry.
The trip coordinators are Mr. Adjei and Ms. Hoekstra. The trip will be 10 days, from May 31 to June 9. If you wish to join this trip you are required to take part in fundraising actives in the Ghana Team club. A visa is required, routine vacations and preventive malaria medication are also required.
The plane ride is long so bring something of entertainment. This trip is looking for eager and helpful grade 10 to 12. With service projects, Seniors tend to take priority. Please be advised that this trip does conflict with students taking SAT test on June 1 are advised not to take this trip.
“We all enjoyed it in one form or another.” Stated Mastrangelo. He guarantees that students will have some fun.
Sample Itinerary (subject to change)
Days One-Two: We will fly into Accra, stay the night, and then travel by bus to Kumasi the following morning.
Days Three-Eight: We will be spending our days at BIS. Students will be involved in various projects, ranging from building projects to teaching lessons with the students. Students will also be leading various outdoor activities and games. In the evenings, students will have time to reflect upon their daily encounters as well as plan the next day’s activities. We are also planning a few excursions in Kumasi to explore local neighborhoods and markets.
Days Nine-Ten: These are again days of travel and transition as we make our way back to Accra and Zurich.
10 days, Friday, May 31 – Sunday, June 9
*Please note that this trip will conflict with the SAT test taking place on June 1. Students planning on taking the SAT on June 1 should not choose this trip.
Co-Payment: CHF 400.-
Trip Coordinators: William Adjei and Anneke Hoekstra
Target Audience: Grades 10-12
Prerequisites: Students wishing to join this trip are required to join the Upper School Ghana club to participate in fundraising and preparation.
Maximim Group Size: 20 students
Destination: Kumasi, Ghana
Passport: 6 months validity beyond return date.
Visa: All visitors require a visa. Please click here for more information. Visa documents can be found in the Resources folder below.
Health and Safety: Routine vaccinations and preventative malaria medication.
Essential Questions: What place does education have in the development of a society? What is the most effective way to provide meaningful service? What can I offer and what can I learn from another country and another culture?
Enduring Understandings: Understanding cultural differences broadens our understanding of the world and our place within it. You can make a significant difference in the lives of others. Service enriches the lives of volunteers as well as the recipients.
