Opportunity available to go abroad with UNE’s Ghana Health Partnership!

Study Abroad with UNE’s Ghana Health Partnership: Cross-Cultural Health Immersion Experience

Are you an adventure seeker interested in a life-changing study abroad experience in public health? The University of New England (UNE) offers an exciting opportunity for students and alumni to immerse themselves in global health initiatives through the Ghana Health Partnership. This two-week study abroad program takes place each May, providing students with a unique chance to work alongside community health educators and health practitioners in Ghana to improve healthcare services.

Cross-Cultural Health Study Abroad Opportunity with UNE in Ghana

UNE’s healthcare-focused study abroad program is an excellent opportunity for students interested in global health, particularly those pursuing careers in public health, nursing, social work, pharmacy, physical therapy, and interprofessional healthcare. Throughout this two-week immersion program, participants engage in hands-on health services, interprofessional collaboration, and cross-cultural exchange in the West African country of Ghana. This opportunity integrates Western healthcare practices with traditional folk medicine, providing students with the tools needed to practice culturally-competent healthcare.

This global health study abroad opportunity allows UNE students and alumni to work directly with the Ghana Health Service, local community health practitioners, and public health professionals to provide essential primary care and health education to underserved communities. During this immersive experience, you will collaborate with a diverse team of healthcare providers from both Ghana and the United States, enhancing your professional skills while making a tangible impact on community health.

A Chance to Effect Positive Change in Global Health

The Ghana Health Partnership program works to improve healthcare delivery in Ghana through collaborative research, health promotion, and community education. Students actively participate in initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access, clinical services, and health outcomes in the city of Sekondi and two nearby rural villages. By working in these diverse settings, you’ll gain firsthand experience in community health education, primary healthcare, and cultural competence—essential skills for any healthcare professional.

The Mission of the Ghana Health Partnership

The Ghana Health Partnership (GHP) is dedicated to improving healthcare in Ghana through research, education, and capacity-building. By partnering with local Ghanaian healthcare providers, the GHP strengthens healthcare systems, enhances workforce development, and promotes community-based health initiatives.

The Ghana Health Mission, which began in 1996 at the University of Massachusetts, was brought to UNE in 2008. Since then, UNE students and faculty have been actively engaged in community health initiatives in Ghana, working alongside professionals from the University of Cape Coast and other international organizations.

How Are Students Involved in the Ghana Health Partnership?

Students are directly involved in all aspects of the program, from developing and implementing health education curricula to participating in hands-on clinical services and health promotion activities. Students are expected to develop culturally-appropriate health interventions, evaluate community health needs, and engage with the local population to improve healthcare practices.

This program also serves as a valuable Applied Practice Experience for students in the Master of Public Health (MPH) program at UNE. Students can use their experience in Ghana as part of their public health practicum and earn academic credit for their participation.

Financial Assistance and Scholarships Available for UNE Students

UNE students who wish to participate in the Ghana Health Partnership program are encouraged to apply for financial assistance. The Global Education Scholarship offers funding ranging from $250 to $1000, helping students offset the cost of their global health study abroad experience. Additionally, funding from the Graduate and Professional Student Association is available to help support students pursuing this opportunity.

Join Next Year’s Ghana Cross-Cultural Health Immersion Program

Are you ready to experience global health firsthand and make a meaningful impact in the lives of community members in Ghana? Click here for more information about the Ghana Cross-Cultural Health Immersion Program and how to apply. If you have any immediate questions about this unique study abroad opportunity in community health and global healthcare, contact Jennifer Ceide at jceide@une.edu for more details.

Watch this video to get a sense of what is involved in the program and the impact on the lives of all involved.