High School Study Abroad in Ghana

Ghana is one of the friendliest West African nations. While English is the official language, there are more than 52 native tongues and hundreds of dialects. Most Ghanaians live in small villages where society is focused on family and community. Vibrant markets offer everything from fruits and clothes to hair braiding; and at night, you'll hear music everywhere. AFS host family placements are located throughout Ghana. Ghanaians tend to be very community-oriented, so the needs of the group take precedence over personal desires. It’s very important to respect the elderly—even if someone is just a few minutes older than you! Children often refer to adults as “auntie” and “uncle” (or for older people, “grandma” and “grandpa”) whether or not they’re actually related. Families spend a lot of time outside, cooking meals and socializing in the courtyard. Ghanaians don’t like to rush; you’ll probably hear your friends and host family repeat the phrase “take time,” which reflects their laid-back approach to life.

Despite major advances in Ghana’s educational system, inequity still exists among students, with gender, geography (rural vs. city), and income levels all determining factors. Global organizations and innovative NGOs level the playing field by working to create better access to Ghanaian schools for all children and a more well-rounded, child-friendly learning environment once they get there. In this Service & Leadership program, you’ll work with one of CIEE’s partner NGOs providing educational enrichment to at-risk children and youth aged 4 to 15. As a teacher’s helper, you’ll wear many hats! You might be placed in a preschool setting, a primary school, or a sports and vocational program for out-of-school teens. You might be asked to assist with basic math, science, and English lessons, or with sports, games, or arts and crafts. Whatever your project focus, you’ll learn first-hand about the Ghanaian educational system and reflect on how it compares to your own system back in the US. Over three weeks, you’ll gain invaluable skills, becoming more and more comfortable interacting with people from different cultures in an incredibly diverse region.

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

Hit the road and see the highlights of Ghana in this two-week cross-country adventure for teens between 14 and 18 years old. Explore a country with more than 70 ethnic groups and about 80 different languages. On our Great Ghana Adventure program, you’ll go on a safari at a wildlife reserve, try some Ghanaian drumming rhythms, and dive into service at a school for the deaf and the blind. You’ll also learn about the transatlantic slave trade at the Door of No Return and see how the country has thrived in modern times. Join a program packed with history, culture, and environmental wonders.

At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose. Since being founded in 1992, more than 130,000 volunteers have traveled to over 20 destinations around the world. Our programs will make you step out of your comfort zone and engage with your new friends from around the world. These are long-term projects, led by local people and aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. By taking part in our programs, even for a short time, you will be contributing towards a sustained effort to support the communities that host us! We believe no other provider offers the safety and security to their volunteers and interns that we do. You'll receive 24-hour staff support from our trained staff, alongside a gold standard of safety planning of your trip - so you don't have to worry about a thing. Choose a project you are passionate about from working with children to medical internship, conservation, and wildlife volunteering. We offer projects starting at one week in over 20 stunning destinations across Asia, Africa, Latin America & The Caribbean, South Pacific & Europe. Ready to make a difference? Follow the link to visit our website!

On this program, you’ll arrive on Ghana’s warm, sandy terrain and be greeted by the joyful laughter of children—a sound that will accompany and energize you throughout your journey. As you volunteer alongside one of Africa’s most welcoming and spirited communities, you’ll experience the vibrant heart of Ghana firsthand. Smiles, bright colors, and a warm sense of belonging will surround you—in the traditional clothing, in the landscape, and at your Home Base. Your presence in the classroom will spark enthusiasm and inspire students to reach for success.

Our Generation Voluntary Organization offers a range of volunteer programs and travel itineraries catered to groups of students, social clubs, and other organizations interested in outdoor education trips. Choose from two-week to four-week tailor-made school trips abroad in Ghana, which focus on developing leadership and teamwork skills, building self-confidence, and facilitating young people to re-evaluate some of their beliefs, attitudes, and assumptions, particularly around different cultures and their own priorities in life. The program was organized to help high school students aged 15 and over as well as university and college students from all corners of the globe to access experiences they never thought existed.

Experience West Africa through the lens of Sankofa, a Ghanaian concept that links the past with a sustainable future. Working with a local organization, you’ll learn to appreciate the importance of Africa’s tangible and imagined histories as you earn college credit and prepare for your future career. Your Experiment program starts in Accra, the capital of Ghana, a modern city with ancient roots. This fascinating city of contrasts—a unique blend of traditional and contemporary art and culture—is where you will begin your 95 hours of formal internship. Deepen your understanding and immerse yourself in local culture by becoming part of a community for four weeks through your group internship, homestay, guest lectures, site visits, and community projects. Enhance your critical thinking, time management, and intercultural communication skills through an internship with a local community organization, research institution, business, or international NGO. You will also be introduced to hiplife music, media houses, and institutions across the country that highlight Ghana’s position in a hyper-globalized world.

Learn, serve, and lead with Bright Light Volunteers in a country of your choice. Our Global Service Learning (GSL) program is designed for passionate middle and high school students, exposing them to various aspects, including cultural and social, of their host community. Participants not only broaden their knowledge but also develop a deeper understanding of local, national, and global issues. They gain insight into the interdependency and interconnectedness of people and communities, becoming equipped to act responsibly and effectively toward a more just and peaceful world. Additionally, they develop a range of skills outside a conventional classroom environment. If you’re interested in joining our movement and becoming a global citizen, get in touch with us today for more information.

Are you a high school student, teacher, or team leader looking for a safe, affordable, and meaningful volunteer abroad program? Do you want your students to embark on a powerful journey that will inspire, challenge, and impact them deeply? The High School Volunteer Abroad Program by St. Miracle Works Educational Foundation (SMWEF) is the perfect fit for you. Since 2018, SMWEF has been offering safe, unique, and affordable volunteer opportunities in Ghana designed specifically for high school students. During the program, students stay with welcoming host families, allowing them to fully immerse in the local culture, understand key social issues, and engage in well-structured community development projects. In addition to volunteering, participants explore Ghana’s beautiful tourist destinations, combining cultural learning with adventure. This program helps students from around the world connect with underprivileged communities, empower others, share their passion for service, and return home with unforgettable memories and a broader world view.