Location: Elmina, Ghana

Program Duration: 4 weeks – 13 Weeks

Start Dates: Flexible, year-round

Overview:

Join the Michael Kunke Foundation and contribute to our Digital Literacy Initiative, aimed at enhancing digital skills among students and young adults in Elmina. As a Digital Literacy Instructor, you will be helping bridge the digital divide by teaching basic computer skills, internet safety, and fostering responsible online behaviour.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Teach basic computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office, internet usage, email setup).
• Conduct workshops on digital communication and online safety.
• Assist in setting up digital learning sessions at the Elmina Research & Innovation Centre (ERIC).
• Support students in learning coding basics, digital creativity, or 3D printing, based on your expertise.
• Work closely with local teachers to incorporate technology into their lesson plans.
• Help maintain and update the computer lab equipment.

Requirements:

• A background in IT, education, or related fields is an asset.
• Passion for teaching and willingness to work in a low-resource environment.
• Basic computer skills are required; advanced skills are a plus.
• Open-minded, culturally sensitive, and patient.

Benefits

• Work in a vibrant community eager to learn digital skills.
• Experience Ghanaian culture and life firsthand.
• Contribute to long-term education and empowerment projects. Help maintain and update the computer lab equipment.
• Travel and explore Ghana on weekends and your off days.

Program Highlights

• Empower local students by teaching essential STEM and digital skills, preparing them for future opportunities in a tech-driven world.
• Immerse yourself in Ghanaian culture as you live and work in Elmina, engaging with the community and experiencing daily life.
• Develop your teaching skills and gain hands-on experience in education, curriculum development, and cross-cultural communication.
• Make lasting memories while exploring Ghana’s rich heritage, scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture during your free time.
• Create a sustainable impact by inspiring young minds and leaving a legacy of digital literacy and STEM enthusiasm in Elmina.

Communication

The official language of Ghana is English however in Elmina children still speak the local dialect which is Fantsi, in school. It is the predominant language spoken not only in the schools but also in the town but English is the language used for communication in school. The volunteer will teach and guide students in the various fields. However, you will not be replacing the regular teachers, they will be at hand to guide you and introduce you to how teaching is done locally.

What Happens On A Typical School Day

On a typical school day students start reporting to school as early as 6:30am, they keep trooping in till 7:30am when morning assembly is called. During morning assembly announcements are made concerning any upcoming program for the day. By 7:50am assembly is over and students march to their classrooms. School lessons start at 8:00am.

Typical day

1. 06:45 – 07:30am – Volunteer should leave home for school.
2. 07:30am – Morning Assembly
3. 08:00am – School Starts
4. 10:30am – 11:00am – Morning Break
5. 12:30pm – 01:00pm – Lunch Break
6. 03:00pm – School Closes
7. 03:30pm – Leave school for home.

Please note this an example of a schedule. Times vary on different schools and term time. After school, volunteers are free to go shopping in the local markets, return to the volunteer house or visit the local swimming pools.

What To Do On Public Holidays

Public holidays are perfect days to visit any interesting place on your bucket list. We make it easier to travel because we have a partnership with one of the best travel companies in Ghana, Freelance Nana Travels (www.freelancenanatravels.com). In Ghana when a national holiday falls on a weekend it is shifted to a weekday and this is mostly on a Monday, this is termed as a long weekend.

Public Holidays In Ghana

1^st January – New Year’s Day                                      25^th April – African Union Day

7^th January – Constitution Day                                   1^st May – May Day (Labour Day)

6^th March – Independence Day                                  16^th June – Eid al-Adha

29^th March – Good Friday                                           4^th August – Founders’ Day

1^st April – Easter Monday                                           21^st September  – Kwame Nkrumah B Day

11^th April – Eid ul-Fitr                                                  1^st Friday in December (Farmer’s Day)

Volunteer Free Time

During weekends, holidays, and after project hours, volunteers have the opportunity to explore the rich culture, natural beauty, and exciting attractions that Ghana has to offer. Whether you prefer adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, there’s something for everyone!

Travel and Excursions: Our partnership with Freelance Nana Travels, one of Ghana’s top travel companies, makes it easy for volunteers to arrange exciting trips to various destinations across the country. Explore breathtaking locations such as:

• Wli Waterfalls – the highest waterfalls in West Africa, surrounded by lush greenery.
• Kakum National Park – famous for its canopy walkway and incredible rainforest biodiversity.
• Cape Coast and Elmina Castles – UNESCO World Heritage Sites offering insight into Ghana’s history.
• Busua Beach – a beautiful stretch of coastline ideal for relaxation, surfing, and beach activities.

Local Exploration: If you’d like to stay closer to Elmina, there’s plenty to see and do within the community. You can explore:

• Elmina Fish Market and Harbor – experience the vibrant local market, watch the colorful fishing boats, and learn about traditional fishing practices.
• Guided Cultural Tours – join a local guide to discover hidden gems, historic sites, and traditional arts within Elmina.
• Community Engagement – spend time with locals, learn about Ghanaian traditions, and even participate in community events and festivals.

Leisure Activities: For those who prefer quieter activities, you can spend your free time by:

• Relaxing on local beaches along the Gulf of Guinea, enjoying the sun and ocean views.
• Practicing yoga or meditation at nearby serene spots or at the yoga club in Cape Coast.
• Learning Ghanaian Cooking or Dance – engage with locals to learn traditional recipes or try your hand at cultural dance styles.

Whether you want to explore Ghana’s top attractions or simply enjoy the vibrant community around you, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences awaiting you during your volunteer placement.

What’s Included

• Pick up from the airport and drop off at the airport by staff.
• Comfortable accommodation.
• Good food (three meals a day).
• 24/7 staff support and emergency response team.
• Induction and orientation on arrival.
• Weekend travel planning and professional advice on what to expect.
• Access to internet connection at office.
• Access to a local gym (one month stay and beyond).
• Visa support and advice.
• Certificate of project completion / letter of testation.

What’s Excluded

• Flight cost
• Travel and medical insurance
• Visa cost