Author: Gayle Pescud
Placement: 4 months at placement 0125
Period:
November 2005 - April 2006
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My name is Gayle Pescud. I'm a 32 year old woman from Sydney, Australia. When I arrived in Ghana, I spent 4 months on a volunteer project in Cape-Coast before coming to this project in Kumas. I then spent a further 4 months at the project, and also had time to go traveling around Ghana during that time.
Soon after arriving at the School, I noticed a number of children with special needs and learning issues such as dyslexia, and suggested to the teachers that I work in small groups with those children. I researched methods of working in small groups online, and put together a program for these children to try to help them overcome some of their issues. I developed great affection for these children and working with them has been among my most rewarding experiences in Ghana.
Together with another volunteer we also held a meeting to discuss the use of the cane (beating) at the school, and the teachers agreed to stop it. This has been set back, but for the most part it has stopped. The culture in the classrooms has became less aggressive. Attitudes towards punishment were shocking at first, but thoughtful approaches to how to change this made a difference. I think I'm proud of this more than anything else I've achieved in Ghana.
Children are often sick or tired and the weather is always very warm, so it can be a challenge keeping their attention. Lack of resources has also been one of the problems I faced. Children never have enough notebooks, pencils, erasers or sharpeners, and just getting them organized is a challenge that takes up valuable time.
There are many children at school with reading and writing, and basic maths problems. It would be wonderful if future volunteers could focus on literacy, and specialized methods of teaching students with such issues as they would
benefit greatly. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to get to know the wonderful children at the School. They are funny, frustrating, energetic, surprising and touching. I feel for them and their future and I will stay in contact with the school long into the future and maybe even return one day soon (fingers-crossed).
You will get sick from time to time, but that's part of the experience. Bring a lot of medicines for upset stomachs, and vitamins to help replenish your system. You end up taking a lot of antibiotics, so, girls, bring medication for yeast infections.
The locals in and around the school and the house are extremely curious about white people and will call out to you every couple of yards when you're walking somewhere. It can be rude or insulting, if you take it that way, but it's just unchecked curiosity as many people have had no contact with white people. I've noticed that in Kumasi, as opposed to other areas, people will speak Twi (the local language) first and expect you to reply in it, even if it's just an answer to a greeting. They get very excited when you do. Despite that, everyone can speak English so you have no problem with basic interaction.
Ghanaians are hopeless with directions and it's best to ask how long something will take, not how far it is. However, they are so helpful that they'll probably take you there themselves, even if they couldn't explain the way.
The advice about people dressing conservatively is……..!? It's the same as western countries, and you can wear what you like.
Food is very simple at school and at home, it's mostly rice with either beans or tomato stew mix. There is plenty of food and the family takes care of you very well. Town is just a short ride away where you can buy all types of western foods at supermarkets and restaurants.
The volunteer quarter are wonderfully set up. They are spacious, airy, with fans. We even have our own large common room with large dining table, a fridge, and power outlets! Enjoy your experience!!
I want to thank all the teachers for being so open to new ideas and taking on board suggestions and comments on other ways of doing things. As someone who isn't a teacher, I've learnt so much from the children and teachers at school. I found it to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It was tough at times, but I grew up and learnt as much about myself as I did with new culture. I appreciate the care and the welcome from the family, Mr. Bonny and everyone at the house. I feel grateful to have been part of Ghanaian family and see things somewhat from inside.
Gayle Pescud
Volunteered from November 2005 - April 2006