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AU Outreach Global concluded another impactful Ghana Service-Learning Program, held May 27–June 9, 2026. The experience brought together 22 participants, including Auburn students, faculty and staff and community members, for two weeks of service and cultural immersion.
The program combined hands-on service-learning in education and healthcare with opportunities for cultural engagement. Participants partnered with local municipal assemblies to support healthcare delivery across multiple regions. In Accra, the group spent three days operating a health clinic alongside the Ayawaso West Municipal Assembly. The group then traveled to Ghana’s Volta Region, where they partnered with the Ketu North Municipal Assembly and dedicated two additional days to providing free healthcare services. At the same time, Auburn PhD students supported local education efforts by teaching in nearby schools.
Cultural engagement remained a defining feature of the program. Participants took part in Ga and Ewe naming ceremonies led by tribal elders and chiefs, gaining deeper insight into local traditions and identity. The group also visited key historical and cultural sites, including Independence Square, Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, the National Museum of Ghana and Cape Coast Castle.
Outdoor and experiential activities included hiking to Mount Afadjato, the tallest mountain in Ghana, and Tagbo Falls, a boat ride on the Volta River and learning to cook traditional Ghanaian dishes such as jollof rice and light soup. Participants also explored local markets and beaches.
Students consistently highlighted the program’s impact on their professional and personal growth.
Rachel Duey, a student in the AU Public and One Health program, reflected on the value of the experience: “Getting to learn about their health system and how it is similar to and different from the U.S. health system was incredibly impactful. I really enjoyed the hands-on experience and getting to interact with Ghanaians and help them in a way that’s very tangible.”
Jillian Richardson, a second-year Auburn pharmacy student, emphasized the importance of communication and cultural competency in healthcare: “I was able to speak with people in their native language about their medications. It was an amazing experience.”
The program’s success was made possible through strong partnerships and generous support from campus and community organizations. Outreach Global extends its gratitude to the Harrison College of Pharmacy, AU Office of Faculty Engagement, HUB Worldwide, Americares, the University of South Alabama, Infinity Product Group, AUMC Women of Faith and the Alabama Department of Risk Management. Additional thanks to the individuals who contributed suitcases and funding to help transport supplies to Ghana.
Outreach Global looks forward to continuing the Ghana Service-Learning Program and expanding its impact in the years ahead.
