Experience report on volunteering in a pre-school in Ghana

Life in the Student House

When I arrived at the Student House I got to know some of the other volunteers. I was warmly welcomed and felt very comfortable after a short time. Tips and tricks for shopping, driving Trotro or negotiating taxi prices were quickly picked up by the other volunteers. If you had any questions, you could go to William, Game or Tili at any time, so that after a few days you could easily find your way around even in such a strange metropolis as Accra.

Living with the other volunteers was never boring and after a hard day's work you could look forward to a movie night, playing a game, sitting outside the house chatting late at night, going to the beach or the mall to drive or to go out in the evening.

The work in the school

On my first day at school I was greeted by Mama Grace and when asked what class I wanted to go to she replied: “You come to my class!” That's how I ended up spending my time with Mama Grace spent with the two to four-year-old students, where teaching turned out to be more difficult than planned. But that didn't matter, instead of doing maths, we learned the ABCs, animals, colors and sang songs like Head and Shoulders, Knees and Toes and even Aramsamsam as best we could.

The kids were all so outgoing and welcoming and every morning I walked into the classroom they would come running, hug me and call out Obroni. In Ghana, Obroni is a friendly term for light-skinned people that you hear everywhere. However, I introduced myself as Anna and when the children started correcting each other after a few days with "No, it's not Obroni, it's Anna!" I was really happy. Although the little ones probably didn't really understand it, it was sad to say goodbye and I miss them all very much.

Leisure activities and weekend trips

On the weekends I was traveling with a few other volunteers, which enriched my time in Ghana incredibly and gave me a better impression of the country and the people. So we were on a weekend in Shai Hills, where there are some animals and beautiful nature to see. On other weekends we were at the Wli Falls and in Cape Coast.

My conclusion

My time in Ghana was indescribably beautiful - the warm and carefree mentality of the Ghanaians, the busy streets, colorful markets, the warm climate, the diverse nature and the many people I met there and fell in love with. I'm so glad I did this trip and recommend it to everyone, it was unforgettable!

Report on Volunteering in a Preschool in Ghana by Anna S., 13.12.2017