I co-directed Calvin’s Interim in Ghana class with Stephanie Sandberg. We were blessed with 23 students who were eager for anything. Prior to departure, I mentioned that “attitude is everything” in Ghana, and they certainly took it to heart. Best best of all, they enjoyed each other immensely. Thankfully, no one got sick.
We enjoyed many new experiences. Our first eight days were spent in Akropong at the Akrofi Christaller Institute where we heard from lecturers who informed us about topics like the prosperity gospel, primal religion, and Christianity and development. From Akropong, we visited Cape Coast, then Kuamsi, Tamale and Bolga. Some of the highlights of our travel included visiting Elmina Castle (the final departure point for 3 million enslaved Africans en route to the Americas), a World Vision site near Tamale that involved a quiz competition between two rural schools and a dance troupe (which we had to join; it’s rude not to!), visting the Chief of Zogga who welcomed us warmly, allowing the women in his village to wrap a baby on the back of one of our students. The final photo shows another student pounding shea nuts with women of a village in Bolga, one of Ghana’s largest towns in the northeastern section of the country.
—Tracy
Electricity update: we had a proper “load shedding” event for about 2 hours this afternoon. The generators at the Institute of African Studies came to life, as promised. (Internet did not return, however.) Less luck at Commonwealth Hall; our flat’s power was out straight through the event.
Routine update: On 6 Jaunary 2016, I wrote that we were in desparate need of a routine. I think we’re starting to find one. Arising at 6 AM no longer seems onerous. Earlier-than-in-the-US to bed is no longer challenging for the kids. Homework is pursued in a timely manner after school. Roads are familiar. With Tracy back, we parents can parallel process some of the evening chores.
Tomorrow marks the one month anniversary of our arrival. Our Ghanian life seems to be settling into a rhythm.
—Matt
