Going to Ghana!

Posted by Laura Scocchia on July 21st, 2009

Hi! My name is Laura Scocchia. I completed my Honours degree in French and Geography at the University of Ottawa and have recently graduated from the Faculty of Education at Lakehead University. This past year, I gained teaching experience in Thunder Bay, teaching students of all ages, ranging from JK to grade 8. I really enjoyed what I was doing this past year, however before I accept a fulltime position, I wanted to expand my horizons by volunteering in Africa.

There has always been something about Africa that has intrigued me. By going to Ghana, like most volunteers, I am hoping to make a difference in some small way. However, I am expecting to learn a whole lot more than I will be able to offer. I am really looking forward to living without many of the things we consider necessities in Canada, and to experience a whole new culture and way of life.

I will be a part of the Kanaso School Project in Awaso, Ghana, a town of 10 000 people. I truly believe that education is the one universal path that will lead to a better, more equitable world. Specifically, I will be an assistant teacher for French, and will hopefully help the teachers at the school expand their teaching practices away from the lecture method and towards a more interactive, communicative approach. In Ghana, English is their official language; however mastering the French language is extremely important to them because their surrounding countries are French. The Ghanaians realize that in order to keep the peace amongst their neighbours, they need to speak French with an excellent proficiency. By working together to modify some of their teaching practices, I am hoping to help them develop a more effective language program that they can continue to practice well after I am gone.

I am very excited, although this three month placement is still over a month away! I am hoping to live with a host family, although this is not a guarantee at this point. I look forward to keeping you updated as I go through this remarkable journey.

Posted in Ghana, Pre-departure