Frequently Asked Questions - Ghana

(1) Tell me more about the Global Volunteer Network?

The Global Volunteer Network was set up by Colin Salisbury, its founder and director, after spending time volunteering in Ghana, West Africa. While he was there he saw the tremendous difference volunteers could make in helping local organizations achieve their goals. Upon returning to New Zealand he spent some time researching the different volunteer organizations around the world and was amazed at how expensive some programs were and how limiting many were in terms of volunteer options. The Global Volunteer Network was launched in December 2000 with the aim of providing quality placements for volunteers.

We are currently offering volunteer placements through our partner organizations in Ghana, Ecuador and Nepal. If you are interested in volunteering in other countries I suggest you subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

(2) Tell me more about Ghana?

Ghana is a vibrant and alluring country, steeped in a rich tradition and a frequently tragic history. Free from the trappings of mass tourism, this former British colony has much to offer the visitor. Tropical beaches abound but there's so much more. Feed the sacred crocodiles at Paga, plunge into the waterfalls of the eastern highlands, marvel at the game-rich savannah of Mole National Park, or relive the chilling story of the coastal slave forts. For more information I suggest you purchase the Lonely Planet's guide to West Africa.

(3) What kind of volunteer work is available?

The volunteer opportunities in Ghana cover all Teaching subjects. Eg. English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Fine Arts, Textiles and Printing, Economics, Accounting, Business Management, Technical Drawing, Wood Work, Metal Work, Electronics, Motor Vehicle Studies, Construction Studies, Computer Studies and Secretarial Studies etc. Your placement will be tailored according to your individual needs and interests.

(4) Do I have to be from New Zealand?

No, you can volunteer through the Global Volunteer Network from any where in the world.

(5) What age do you have to be to volunteer?

You must be 18 years old and above. There is no upper limit. You just have to be in good health.

(6) Do you provide any financial support?

We unfortunately are not in a position to offer any financial support. You may want to consider enrolling in a later program to allow enough time to save the funds required.

(7) What immunizations/vaccines will I need?

This will depend greatly on what country you are from. Once you have paid your application fee you will be sent a pack that includes the vaccine information required. You should always consult your doctor before having any medication as some may not be necessary. In many countries you may have already had some of the required vaccinations as a child.

(8) Do I need to speak English to become a volunteer?

Yes it would be helpful if you speak English. You may have English as your second language and that is also fine. While there are many local languages spoken in Ghana, the majority of people speak English.

(9) When do I need to arrive in Ghana?

You can arrive at anytime as training is based at the school and does not run at set times of the year. You will be met at the airport if you are planning to begin volunteering straight away. If you are planning some tourist time in Ghana before beginning teaching then arrangements can be made for you to be picked up at a required destination.

School holidays in Ghana run during the following periods of the year:

(10) What countries do most volunteers come from?

The majority of volunteers that come through the Global Volunteer Network are from the United States, Canada, England and Australia. We also have smaller numbers of people from the Europe, Japan and New Zealand.

(11) Are the fees and expenses tax deductible?

No, we are only registered as an organization in New Zealand.

(12) Do you have any ideas for fundraising for my volunteer experience?

Yes. Once you have chosen a country to volunteer in and have paid your application fee, an information pack is sent out to you which includes fundraising ideas.

(13) What are the living arrangements when volunteering?

When you are met at the airport you will be taken to a hotel for one night. The next day you are taken to the school where you will be volunteering. There are individual rooms available here which are covered in the program fee you pay our partner, (this is not your application fee). The local people will bring you meals throughout the day. You are free to choose your own accommodation if you prefer but this is at your own expense. You are advised to buy your own bottled water once you arrive in Ghana. Electricity will rarely be found in the majority of villages.

(14) Do you need travel insurance?

As with any overseas traveling, insurance is recommended. Talk to your travel agent about this or check online what offers are available. Make sure you look into the details of the policy. You may like to make sure an emergency flight home is included for health reasons. Always include medical or health insurance as part of the deal.

(15) Are we able to do any sightseeing while volunteering?

Yes. Any time that you are not expected to be at school you are free to do as you please. Teaching hours very from 2 - 5 hours per day. The locals are very friendly and would be more than happy to entertain you or show you some of the local attractions - particularly animals.
You may want to spend some time in Ghana before or after volunteering to see more of the country. You can survive on as little as $7 (U.S) a day in Ghana. You can also spend much more if you want a bit of luxury.

(16) Are there more expenses once I arrive?

The program fee covers accommodation and all meals during your placement. If you arrive early or intend on staying on in Ghana for longer than you are volunteering then you will need to have spare money for this time. Also some money may be required for your days off depending on what you intend doing. Other costs include buying bottled water, departure tax and any shopping you will do personally.

(17) How safe is it to volunteer in Ghana?

Ghana is one of the safest countries in Africa. It has a democratic electoral process and a stable economy. We work very hard to ensure you are placed in safe environments while volunteering. The people are very warm and friendly towards foreigners, so you will be well looked after.

(18) How many volunteers are there on site at the same time?

This depends on how many people volunteer at any one time. Usually we have between 4 and 10 volunteers arriving in Ghana each month. You are usually placed with at least one other volunteer. This always depends on how many are volunteering at the same time and the area they are placed in.

(19) What resources are available for teaching when I'm volunteering? Do I need to bring my own?

Any teaching resources you have that would be of benefit to you in your teaching subject would ideally be taken with you. You can discuss ideas with our partner in Ghana via the email. You need to understand that all schools that volunteers are placed in are very under resourced and much of the teaching is rote learning with the teacher up the front talking to a whole class situation. Many students may not have books or pencils to even work with. Do not expect to have many resources provided at the school.

(20) Can you tell me more about your partner in Ghana?

Our partner is a non-profit NGO whose main goal is to look for short or long term volunteer-teachers, books, tools and equipment from around the world for Ghanaian schools. They call it 'Educational Empowerment' and in doing so they believe Ghanaians can learn a lot from volunteers from other countries. They are also aware that volunteers can learn a lot from Ghanaians while they are there.

(21) What is the course content of the training?

The training is based at the school in which you will be volunteering. It is a practical training course which means you may be teaching as well as training.

(22) How are families accommodated while volunteering?

You would need to pay addition costs for accommodating your family. You would also need to let us know if this is required so you can be placed in a school with options for accommodation nearby.

(23) How can I get in contact with previous volunteers?

Previous volunteers are happy to discuss their experience with you through email. If you would like to do this, contact us and we will put you in touch.

(24) Who organizes my flights?

You do. You will need to organize your return trip to Ghana and back. You might like to check our travel resource page for some links to discount travel sites.

(25) Who organizes my visa for my volunteer placement?

You will organize your Visa through your travel agent before you leave for Ghana.

If we have not answered your question. Send us a message below.