Health and Safety: What You Need to Know

Government: In 1957, Ghana became the first Sub-Saharan African country to achieve independence from colonial rule and is now a politically stable country run by a parliamentary democracy. Ghana is often looked to as a model for African democracy and is widely known as a warm, welcoming country. Learn more by reviewing the CIA World Factbook.

Crime: Ghana's violent crime rate is considerably lower than that of the United States. While petty theft and pick-pocketing are common, these hazards are often easily avoided if students remain alert and travel in pairs or groups, especially at night.

Water and Food Safety: Students should stick to drinking purified bottled water, which is very inexpensive and available for purchase everywhere. Students should eat only fruits and vegetables that are cooked or can be peeled and cleaned after purchase and eat hot food while it is still hot.

Malaria: While malaria is common in Ghana, it is both easily avoidable and treatable if travelers adhere to their anti-malarial prescription as well as utilize insect repellent and wear long clothing at night. Learn more about malaria prevention at the Center for Disease Control website. 

INSTITUTIONALIZED SUPPORT
 

The University of Ghana's Office of International Programmes manages study abroad arrangements with universities world-wide, and their experienced staff provide support and guidance for all students from the time they arrive at the airport until their departure.

The Center for the Humanities has partnered with The Aya Centre--located just moments from the UG campus--to serve as the first responder for any student emergencies, ranging from a lost passport to an medical issue in need of immediate attention. The Aya Centre staff is available to participating students 24/7 while they're abroad, and is directed by Professor Michael Williams, who is touted by officials at the U.S. Embassy in Ghana as someone who has "seen it all."

The University of New Hampshire is an institutional member of International SOS, a medical assistance, international health care and security assistance company. Students and parents/guardians can take advantage of this powerful resource by calling an International SOS alarm center, which has physicians, multilingual coordinators, operations managers, logistics support personnel and medical and security professionals on hand to speak with you. If students need a medical referral, lose medication, seek pre-travel advice or experience a medical or security crisis, UNH has a fully integrated program in place so that students receive the care and expertise that they need, whenever and wherever they need it. Click here to read more about UNH students' membership benefits (pdf).

Of course, the best preventative measure is always for students to follow all program policies and procedures, as well as adhere to Ghanaian laws and customs. All are welcome to review the conditions of the Participants Agreement & Release of Liability (pdf) form.