share
Volunteering Projects in Ghana
You can become involved in helping to develop communities in Ghana. With such a variety of projects this program has something to suit everyone.
You have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of under-privileged children in orphanages, and to contribute to teaching, farming and community work.
The projects offer you a great way to experience the Ghanaian way of life, whilst making a lasting difference in local communities.
The Projects
Farming
You have the opportunity to work alongside local Ghanaians to assist in the farming program.
The land belongs to the children's home and is used to grow food for the children and generate income to support the running of the children’s home; excess produce is to be sold locally. The long term goal is to teach the children how to care for and utilise the land so they have the skills to take over the work, making the farm self-sufficient and providing the children with invaluable skills. Duties will include weeding, planting, watering and harvesting.
This is not a full time project; you will have plenty of time to spend with the children in the orphanage. This role it suitable for volunteers with experience in growing crops or gardening, and for those with green fingers and a readiness to get involved.
Teaching
Many schools in Ghana are currently struggling with overcrowded classes and a lack of skilled teachers. As a volunteer you will help to empower girls and boys by giving them the skills they need for the future and to make their voice heard.
We have opportunities for volunteers to assist with teaching in the following:
- Pre-School (4-5 year olds)
- Primary School (6-11 year olds)
- Junior Secondary School (12-14 year olds)
Subjects range from language and literacy, maths, science, computer skills, environmental studies, physical development, and psychosocial skills to creative activities such as music, dance, and art.
This program does not include a training process, therefore the volunteer is expected to be able to conduct classes independently or assist teachers in the classroom.
A teaching qualification is not required but volunteers need to be confident in the above subjects and preferably have or be studying towards a university degree. Your level of experience will determine the age group that you work with.
Village
You have the opportunity to work within a community project based in the village of Aboansan. Volunteers are needed to take part in a flexible program incorporating some of the following activities:
Peace Education Cells
Peace education cells encourage non-violent conflict-resolution training, and facilitate dialogue and reconciliation between competing priorities within and between the family group, neighbourhoods and communities. Cell discussions are based on topics that villagers feel are affecting them, such as domestic violence, tolerance and intolerance, and women's empowerment. Training includes anger management strategies, cause of and solution to tribal prejudice and hatred, practical pathways to forgiveness and reconciliation. Volunteer opportunities include assisting in mobilising and organising villagers into cell groups, helping to facilitate community cell discussions, and helping to take notes and prepare reports from discussions to track the success of talks.
Community School
Volunteers will assist local teachers in preparing weekly lesson plans, teaching students and organizing sports activities. Teaching opportunities include providing literacy, numeracy, peace education, and creative activities such as drama, dance, and art. Teaching materials will not be available, volunteers are requested to bring or purchase materials in Ghana.
Grassroots Development
Volunteers may also assist in fundraising and planning for the construction of a new school, and in agricultural projects.
Please note the duties listed above may change depending on the current need of the community. This role is suitable for a flexible, mature, caring, motivated and self-directed person.
Childrens
You have the opportunity to work alongside local staff at an orphanage in Ghana. The home is basic, underdeveloped and in need of volunteers to assist.
These children need love and attention, and assistance with education and developing their life skills. Providing the children with the essential skills in life will help them on their way to successful futures free from poverty, filled with the same opportunities as others.
As a volunteer you will help care for and mentor the children. During the day the children will attend school, during this time you will assist with the general running duties of the home. You may also choose to spend time assisting at the local school. After school you will assist with homework and tutoring.
Volunteers are also encouraged to initiate activities such as dance, music, games, sports, arts, and crafts. This role is suitable for a caring, motivated, and self-directed person who has a love for children and a willingness to get involved.
Gallery
Video
About Ghana
Ghana is located in West Africa, and is bordered by three French-speaking countries with Burkina Faso to the north, Côte d'Ivoire to the west, and Togo to the east. Ghana is roughly the same size as the United Kingdom (or smaller than Oregan) and it's largest river is the Volta.
Development in Ghana
Ghana, when compared to our western society is considered one of the poorer countries in the world. A high percentage of Ghanaian people are subsistence farmers; only growing enough for their own family and at times perhaps a little extra for trading or cash sales.
The life expectancy for people in Ghana is less than 57 years.
Ghana was the second largest producer of cocoa in the world at one time. In the early 1990s gold become the number one leading export, but as world prices fell it hit the economy hard. More recently tourism has become a big generator of hard currency. Timber also creates some income.
Many Ghanaians do not attend school past the primary level. School fees and uniform prices can stop a large number of children attending school altogether. Poorer families will keep their children at home to work in the fields or send them off to work to bring back money for the family. The numbers of students alone is daunting and there are never enough teachers to cope with class numbers.
Volunteer Impact
Volunteers provide assistance to disadvantaged socio-economic groups within Ghanaian communities, focusing primarily on orphaned children, school children, farming and community groups.
As a volunteer in Ghana you can provide love, affection, education and support to orphaned children. You will help to improve education in schools ensuring children learn and flourish. As a volunteer you can share your skills and experience with adult community groups. You will also provide education, inter-cultural exchange and understanding in Ghanaian communities.
What else can I do in Ghana?
Ghana is often called 'Africa for Beginners'and is a great place to start your travels on the continent.
Ghana offers hundreds of kilometres of coast and we recommend you visit some of the beautiful beaches on offer. You can learn about the history of slaves at the ruined European fort of Cape Coast Castle. If you like the urban life, take in Accra’s club scene, the birthplace of some of the region’s most popular music.
Costs
Application Fee – US $97
Your application fee is fully transferable and will secure your place on the Ghana program, (or any other GVN program of your choice), at a placement date that is suitable to you.*
 |
*Your application fee provides you with access to any of GVN's volunteer programs over the next 5 years, as many times as you like without having to pay another application fee! |
Children under 18 are not required to pay the application fee when volunteering together with a parent/guardian. (Except for participants in our Youth Tour program who are required to pay a US$97 application fee.)
Program Fee – From US$ 43 a day*
Teaching Program
- 2 weeks - US $1597
- 3 weeks - US $1797
- 4 weeks - US $1997
- 6 weeks - US $2197
- 8 weeks - US $2397
Childrens & Farming Programs
- 3 weeks - US $1797
- 4 weeks - US $1997
- 6 weeks - US $2197
- 8 weeks - US $2447
Village Program
- 2 weeks - US $1597
- 3 weeks - US $1797
- 4 weeks - US $1997
- 6 weeks - US $2397
- 8 weeks - US $2797
Placements longer than 8 weeks are available, please contact us or apply online for details.
*Based on an 8 week placement
What’s included:
| Accommodation: | Home stay, volunteer dormitory or onsite at your project. |
| Meals: | Breakfast and dinner. |
| Project Donation: | Included. |
| Airport pickup: | On arrival date. |
| Training: | In-country orientation. |
| Supervision: | In-country staff supervision. |
| Support: | Pre-departure personal support from your volunteer coordinator, 24/7 in-country support from partner, and 24hr emergency line. |
Additional Benefits:
- A Quality Volunteer Placement
Dedicated staff with the sole focus of facilitating the placement of volunteers, reviewing and improving programs and supporting the work of our partners. -
Program Guide
Your online resource guide that covers topics such as country information, details on your placement, travel links, visa application process, and much more! - Fundraising guide
Your Fundraising Guide and Software which provides you with proven fundraising strategies, letter generating software and other resources to help you raise up to 100% of the cost of your trip. - Personal online journal
Which help you to communicate effectively and easily with your family and friends back home. - Access to a non-profit:
Contribute to the ongoing support of the charitable + educational work of community organisations.
What’s not included:
Flights, insurance, visas, vaccinations, departure from the program.
We recommend you allow a weekly budget of US $30 for your other expenses such as bottled water, lunch, personal items, beverages, and entertainment.
Schedule
Program Schedule
Teaching
Start date: Any date during term time, ideally around the start of term.
Length: From 2 weeks - 6 months
Term Time in Ghana:
(a) 10th September to 9th December
(b) 10th January to 23rd March
(c) 8th May to 2nd July
Note: These dates vary slightly from year to year. They also vary from school to school and should be treated as approximate rather than confirmed dates.
Village
Start date: 1st or 15th of every month
Length: From 2 weeks - 6 months
Children's & Farming
Start date: 1st or 15th of every month
Length: From 3 weeks - 6 months
Please note: On arrival in Ghana, you will be met at the airport and the following day attend an orientation before being transferred to your project location.
FAQ
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions which we receive at the GVN inbox. This is a great place to start if you have questions about Global Volunteer Network and our placement process. This information should answer the majority of questions you may have.
Can you tell me more about Ghana?
Ghana is a vibrant and alluring country, steeped in 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 we suggest that you purchase the Bradt Travel Guide to Ghana.
What is the climate like in Ghana?
Since Ghana is only a few degrees north of the equator, the only seasonal changes are distinct wet and dry seasons. The best time to visit is during September and October when the weather is relatively cooler and it rains only occasionally. From December to February it is the dry season, when day temperatures are in the 80s-90s Farenheit (27-36 degree Celcius) and nights in the 70s Farenheit (18-26 Celcius). Another dry season occurs from July to August. A dry northeast wind known as the Harmattan blows for about 10 days in January. The eastern coastal belt is warm and comparatively dry; the southwest corner has the highest humidity and rainfall, while the north is frequently hot and dry. Don't forget to take along an umbrella during the rainy season.
Are there holidays or festivals I should be aware of when traveling?
Ghana has several holidays and festivals throughout the year. Some of these will interrupt project schedules and some will not. One thing about Africa is that schedules are never written in stone. You should use the break from the regular work schedule to soak up the culture and get to know the people you are living among.
Do I need to speak English to become a volunteer?
It is helpful if you speak English; it is also fine if English is your second language. While there are many local languages spoken in Ghana, the majority of people speak English.
What age do you have to be to volunteer?
You must be between 18 and 60 years old to volunteer in this program.
What immunizations/vaccines will I need?
- Diphtheria and tetanus
- Polio
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Yellow fever - a certificate proving you have had this should be shown at the airport on arrival.
- Rabies
- Tuberculosis
- Malaria (needs to be closely discussed with doctor)
Some of these can be taken in oral form so please do discuss all options with your doctor to see what is best for you. Some people can be affected quite differently to others by medication. Malaria is prevalent in Ghana so we strongly recommend medication for this. A yellow fever vaccination is legally required to enter Ghana and you will need to provide a certificate to prove you have had it to obtain a visa.
Tell me more about flying into Ghana.
What are the living arrangements when volunteering?
Volunteers in the Teaching, Children or Farming programs will be placed either in a volunteer house or in a home-stay situation within the community they are working in, or in a neighbouring community. All of our caretakers and host families have been trained to provide a warm, safe, and clean environment for volunteers. Your host family will truly adopt you as one of their own, and you are encouraged to feel at ease with them. Volunteers in the Village program will live in a volunteer house. All living quarters have a bed, mosquito netting, bath and facilities, and a lock on the door. You will have drinking (unfiltered) and bathing water, a kerosene lamp, soap, and toilet paper available. You may want to purchase bottled water. You should plan on bringing a flashlight as well. You will be fed three meals a day, and if there are any problems with the meals (too spicy, for example) please discuss it with your counterpart so that the menu can be changed.
How do I get to the project?
After a brief orientation in Ho, volunteers are typically driven to their placements by a member of staff later that day or the next day, depending on the distance to be travelled.
Can I bring my family/children to this program with me?
Volunteers are welcome to bring their family members with them on the program. Each application will be considered on a case by case basis and there will be a minimum additional cost per family member. Partners will need to apply separately if they wish to take part in the program. Things to keep in mind include the additional costs for accommodating your family and how your children will be supervised while you are at the worksite.
How does GVN choose volunteers for this program?
Each GVN program has different criteria depending on our partner's requirements. Every application is reviewed to ensure that the minimum requirements (as set out on the program page) are met. Next we look to see what skills or experience you have that relate specifically to the program. We are also interested in any previous volunteer experience you may have (either local or international), travel experience, and your particular interest in the program.
After reviewing your application, should we require any further information from you, we will email you to request this.
Are there more expenses once I arrive?
The in-country fee covers food and home-stay accommodation 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. Since most flights from the U.S. and Europe arrive in Accra late in the day it is often necessary for volunteers to spend their first night in Accra. Volunteers are asked to cover the cost of their accommodation and meals for the first night; this will be approximately US$25 in total. Other costs include buying bottled water and any shopping you want to do personally. Also some money may be required for your days off, depending on what you intend doing.
How safe is it to volunteer in Ghana?
Is there any time of the year when I can’t volunteer?
Volunteers in the Teaching program should not plan to begin placements in March, April, July, August, or December as teaching placements are not available during school holidays which are generally:
(a) 25th March to 9th May
(b) 25th July to 9th September
(c) 10th December to 9th January
Note: These dates vary slightly from year to year. They also vary from school to school and should be treated as approximate rather than confirmed dates.
When will I know specific details on the placement?
Where will I be located?
Specific placement location is typically confirmed about 4-6 weeks before the term begins, however all placements are in the Greater Accra, Central, Eastern, Volta and Ashanti regions of Ghana.
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 four and ten volunteers arriving in Ghana each month. You will usually be placed with at least one other volunteer, depending on how many volunteers we have at the same time and location as you.
What is the course content of the training?
Volunteers are expected to bring their own skills and experience to the program as no formal training is given. Orientation for the program will include a short language course, introductions to other members of the project staff and a familiarization tour of relevant parts of the volunteer accommodation and village, including the trotro station, worksite, and internet facilities.
What clothing is appropriate for the program?
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 volunteers to assist in teaching, childcare and community based projects.
What kind of volunteer work is available?
Volunteers have the opportunity to teach children from 4-14 yrs, work in orphanage, on a farm or joing the village program.
When do I need to arrive in Ghana?
Teaching dates are flexible but the school holidays must be taken into consideration.
Village, Children's and Farming all start on the 1st and 15th of each month, you will need to arrive day before your placement begins.
Are we able to do any sightseeing while volunteering?
Absolutely! If volunteers would like a local guide to accompany them on their travels, this can be privately arranged through the project staff. You may also want to spend some time in Ghana after volunteering to see more of the country. You can survive on as little as US $25 a day in Ghana. You can also spend much more if you want a bit of luxury.
What resources are available when I’m volunteering? Do I need to bring my own?
There are very few resources available on the programs - volunteers are encouraged to bring or purchase their own. Anything from paper and pens, to toys, teaching resources, old laptops, etc are welcome.
What hours am I expected to take part in the program?
Volunteers will work 5 days a week, Monday through to Friday. Typically you will work 4 to 5 hours per day.
Who organizes my visa for my volunteer placement?
You will organize your visa through your travel agent before you leave for Ghana. We also provide a detailed program guide which includes links to Ghanaian embassies throughout the world.
Do I need travel insurance?
All GVN Volunteers must have insurance. You are free to take out insurance cover through any provider of your choice. However, as some policies do not cover volunteering, we recommend you check you are covered during your volunteer placement.
For your convenience we have arranged a comprehensive package specially designed for volunteering. It includes excellent medical and accident coverage as well as “loss of deposits” cover which covers fees paid to GVN, airlines etc. If you would like to learn more just follow this link: http://www.globalvolunteernetwork.org/insurance/
Is there the opportunity to take classes such as language or more cultural activities while on the program?
There are many cultural festivals, as well as other activities such as informal drumming or dancing. You may also choose to arrange private language classes. Volunteers are free to do as they please on the weekends and after their volunteer activities are done for the day. We encourage volunteers to experience as much of the country as possible since there is a lot to see and do, but we also expect volunteers to take precautions when traveling alone, heed the advice of the locals for where it is safe to travel, be mindful of personal health, and to respect the rules and culture of the country in general.
How do I pay my fees?
Your application fee secures your place on the program (remember this is fully transferable to a later date or different program if you decide not to take part in the program, subject to the terms of service). Your program fee is payable to Global Volunteer Network 12 weeks prior to the 1st of the month you wish to volunteer. Please note that all charges incurred by the payment of the program fee are at the volunteer’s expense, e.g. if a bank transfer incurs a bank fee at the point of origin, that is at the expense of the volunteer. Eighty percent (80%) of your program fee is refundable until one calendar month before the 1st of the month you are due to begin your program. Refer to GVN's legal terms of service for full details.
Can vegetarians be catered for in this program?
Vegetarians and Vegans can be catered for, however in this case the diet will predominantly be beans and vegetables. The program fee covers locally produced food, and therefore the choice is limited. Any special food items purchased will have to be at your own expense. If you have any food allergies please inform your volunteer coordinator as soon as possible, as our partners may require significant time to check whether such dietary needs can be accommodated for.
Volunteer Diaries
Warning: MagpieRSS: Failed to parse RSS file. (Mismatched tag at line 412, column 47) in /hosting/sites/volunteer/globalvolunteernetwork.org/include/rss/rss_fetch.inc on line 238
Warning: Invalid argument supplied for foreach() in /hosting/sites/volunteer/globalvolunteernetwork.org/include/template/programs/program_global.php on line 645
Please visit journals.globalvolunteernetwork.org for more journals and feedback from past volunteers
How to Apply
Program Requirements
Volunteers for the Ghana Program must:
- be between 18 and 65 years of age
- be able to walk long distances (up to 1 hour continuously) and be able to tolerate heat
- be able to speak English fluently
- teaching - High School qualification is required to teach at primary level
The Application Process
Your application process is free and seamless, and if you are successful we will provide you with a choice of application fee payment options that include a secure online service. We also are one of the few organisations that allow you to transfer your application fee to another program at no extra cost.
Communication & Support:
Throughout the process, we are committed to working with you to answer any of your questions or concerns. During your placement we are also available as a form of support to you as a volunteer and will email you while in country to discuss how the program is going.
Volunteer Feedback
Francesca
Working at the oprhanage was fantastic! Going to bath-time in the morning, as well as afternoon activity time and evening bath-time were the main parts of your day. In the spare time around those activities, you could help out with laundry or on the farm, or spend the time going to the local market or internet cafe or just relaxing in the volunteer house, perhaps fetching water from the well. It was very laid back and you could do as much or as little as you wanted. The children are adorable and very loving, and so we liked to arrange things like day trips to the beach or sports days every so often which they get VERY excited about!
Ben
Ghana is a fun, happy, vibrant and safe country that can best be summed up in three words: football, religion and noise. I have made some good friends here and have sincerely enjoyed their company. Teaching has been a fun experience and, although I haven’t stayed long enough to have had as great an impact on the children’s learning as I would have liked, I still felt like I was doing something extremely worthwhile when I was in those classrooms. I would like to thank GVN for a fantastic, hassle-free programme, my hosts, Eric, and the people of Ghana for having me and making me feel welcome.
Articles
Ten Reasons Why International Volunteering Will Help You Get Ahead
There are plenty of options in the world of ‘voluntourism’, as it is often called, that can have a profound impact on a young volunteers life. Pro Bono Australia journalist, Ryan Witcombe writes about his year of volunteering in developing countries. In 2005 I did something that had a profound...
News From Ghana
Application Form
Why Volunteer
At GVN we align with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', so we work with local community organisations in each country. What this means for our volunteers is that they receive a unique and genuine cultural experience whilst being immersed in a local community.
If you're
- Graduating from school and not sure which direction to take, or you're not ready to jump into full-time employment just yet;
- Ready for a Career Break;
- An 'empty nester';
- Retired;
- Or ready for a change or new adventure
Volunteering abroad could be the very thing for YOU!
If you're looking for something worthwhile to do volunteering will give you the opportunity to travel whilst making a difference in the community you are based in.
Did you know taking a Gap Year can improve your college admission chances and success rate during your studies?
"Harvard College encourages admitted students to defer enrolment for one year to travel, pursue a special project or activity, work, or spend time in another meaningful way" – Harvard College Office of Admissions, 2010.
International volunteering is a great way to gain experience living in a developing country, learning about another culture and experiencing a different way of life. It is a fantastic way to grow as a person, to develop life skills, self-confidence and self-esteem, and is a tool for self discovery and identity formation.
Other personal benefits include, developing international friendships and networks, social awareness, and building independence.
Volunteering can increase your employability, help you to gain valuable work experience and enhance your CV/resume.
"Going to a foreign country for a volunteer experience is a huge boost on a resume. Employers love to see a person that can think outside the box and work past their comfort zone. The added benefits of teamwork, foreign language knowledge, and plain old hard work also add polish to the volunteer candidate. Since business now happens on a global scale, the volunteer is armed with useful, and potentially actionable, information." – USA Today, 2010.
Reputable Charity
The Global Volunteer Network (GVN) is a New Zealand Charitable Trust (non-profit NGO) based in Wellington, New Zealand. Our Charitable incorporation number is: CC46460. GVN has been verified and approved by Idealist (the largest volunteer portal on the internet. GVN is also a member of the World Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (WANGO), and our ‘sister’ organization the GVN Foundation has been granted special consultative status on the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Prestigious web sites such as Lonely Planet and Goabroad.com have placed web links to us. Additionally, when you apply, we can provide you with contact information for previous volunteers if you wish. GVN is also an approved member of the Site Trust Network and you can view our verification page.
Recommended by Bill Gates
Bill Gates personally recommended GVN by stating "I'd love to see more young people taking action to help the poor and disadvantaged. Two places to get started are Network for Good and Global Volunteer Network." Newsweek Web
Proven Track Record
To give you peace of mind, GVN has over eight years experience and has placed 13,500+ volunteers since 2002. Read volunteer's journals and testimonials or speak to a returned volunteer directly about their experience abroad through GVN.
Volunteer Support
GVN’s specialist staff provide personal support to volunteers, assisting not only with preparation for your placement, but whilst in-country, and follow-up on return home. GVN provides comprehensive Program Guides, project resources (eg teaching resources).
Community Focussed
GVN aligns with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', therefore we work with local community organisations in each country. We believe that local communities are in the best position to determine their needs, and we provide volunteers to help them achieve their goals.
Recommended by CNN
CNN listed the Global Volunteer Network as one of 10 organizations that can help you to make a positive impact on the world around you. CNN encourages you to visit our website to get more details on how you too can Be The Change.
Personal Security
GVN offer an insurance package tailored specifically for volunteers. Partner’s staff are always available (24hr/7days), along with this GVN also has a 24hr/7day emergency hotline.
Kenya. 
Vietnam. 
Peru. 
Nepal. 
