International students at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) on Ghana’s Independence Day had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and history of Ghana’s capital, Accra.
The students embarked on a comprehensive tour of the city’s most iconic landmarks and tourist sites.
The Accra city tour, organised by the UPSA Centre for International Education and Collaboration (CIEC), forms part of the University’s ongoing efforts to enrich the experiences of its diverse student body.
The excursion saw the students have a pass-by visit to the Accra Sports Stadium, a popular sports venue that is currently hosting the All African Games.
Other drive-through destinations included the famous 37 Military Hospital, the Jubilee House, Osu Castle, and the Accra International Conference Centre.
Additionally, the students made stops at the Black Star Square and the Kwame Nkrumah Museum.
These visits provided invaluable insights into Ghana’s struggle for independence and its journey towards self-determination.
To provide a sense of Accra’s everyday life, the international students also embarked on a ride through some of the city’s principal streets, including Liberation Road, John Evans Atta Mills High Street, the Central Business District, Oxford Street, Kanda Highway, and Jerry John Rawlings Avenue.
Ag. Director of CIEC, Ms. Ivy Heward-Mills, underscored the importance of the tour, emphasising that it has not only exposed international students to Accra’s iconic landmarks but also fostered cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
“It has allowed the students to witness the city’s bustling streetscapes, interact with locals, and gain a deeper appreciation for the daily lives of Ghanaians,” Madam Heward-Mills further added.
She stressed that the tour has also provided an opportunity for the international students to bond with their Ghanaian colleagues outside the lecture rooms.
The Independence Day Accra city tour, according to the CIEC director, served as a reminder of the importance of embracing diversity and cultural exchange within the university community.
The elated students expressed their appreciation for the University’s commitment to providing them with a well-rounded educational experience.
“By exposing us to Ghana’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance, we have gained a deeper appreciation for the country and its people,” said Josep Yilebo, an international student from Nigeria.
