SANKOFA NIU in Ghana, West Africa   In conjunction with the University of Nebraska at Lincoln   May 19 – June 7, 2008    CANCELED - We hope to offer this program again in 2009

 This study abroad program is coordinated by the Northern Illinois University Study Abroad Office (SAO), in conjunction with the NIU Center for Black Studies and the University of Nebraska at Lincoln Office of International Programs and Department of Educational Psychology.  

Sankofa, a Ghanaian term from the Akan language, is commonly translated as, "We have to know the past to know the present and to foresee the future".  The literal translation is "go back and fetch (retrieve) it."  This meaning is based on the Ghanaian belief that one must know his/her past and bring those lessons into the present in order to secure the future. 

PROGRAM DATES: The program will officially begin with departure of the group from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), on Monday, May 19, 2008 and will end with the return of the group from Accra, Ghana, West Africa to Chicago on Saturday, June 7, 2008. 

PROGRAM DIRECTOR:  Dr. Harriet McLeod, Assistant Professor of  Textiles Clothing & Design at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln will serve as a program director.  Dr. Todd Yeary, Associate Director of the Center for Black Studies at Northern Illinois University will serve as program co-director.  Dr. Yeary has served as the NIU program director for the Ghana program since its inception in 2002.  His work represents a strong commitment to international study at Northern Illinois University.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW/OBJECTIVES:  The primary purpose of this program is to provide participants with the opportunity to explore aspects of the historical, cultural and artistic foundations of West African civilization.  It will provide students the opportunity to personally experience the riches of Ghanaian life and culture, while also engaging in a cross-cultural educational experience at the University of Education at Winneba, Ghana.  The program will provide an effective mix of classroom lecture and outside experiential engagement as the core of the study abroad experience. 

The Republic of Ghana, roughly equivalent to Oregon in size, lies almost in the center of the countries bordering the Gulf of Guinea.  To the east lies Togo, beyond which lies Benin and Nigeria.  On the west is Cote D’Ivoire, and to the north, Burkina Faso.  Although English is the official and commercial language, several African languages and dialects are spoken in Ghana, including Twi, Fanti, Ga, Ewe, Dagbani, Gonja and Nzima. 

PROGRAM SITES: The program will take place in Ghana, West Africa at the University of Education at Winneba.  Winneba is one of the twin cities (along with Cape Coast) located on the coast northwest of Accra, Ghana’s capital city.   

HIGHLIGHTS:  Students will have the opportunity to visit historic monuments such as the slave dungeons at Elmina and Cape Coast, explore the kinte weaving and wood carving villages, visit the cultural center of Ghana in Kumasi, as well as experience and observe the use of traditional African religion by a traditional priest.  Additionally, there will be visits to the traditional palace of the King and Queen of Ashanti, as well as a visit to the W.E.B. DuBois Center in Accra. 

PROGRAM AUDIENCE:  This course is open to all undergraduate and graduate level students in good standing according to University policy.  Students who expose themselves to the cultural richness of Ghana will be forever changed, regardless of academic classification or major.  Space is limited and qualified applicants will be accepted on a first-come-first-served basis. 

INSTRUCTION METHOD:  Sessions will include morning lectures on African history and culture, as well as lessons in Twi (the indigenous language for the majority of Ghanaians).  The lectures will be conducted by Dr. Harriet McLeod from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Dr. Todd Yeary from Northern Illinois University.  Additionally, professors from the University College of Education at Winneba will provide lectures and other educational support for the program. 

For the NIU students, there will also be one required session that will be held in DeKalb in order to receive academic credit.  One session (pre-lecture) will be held prior to leaving for Ghana.  Times for this meeting will be coordinated at a later date.  While in Ghana, students will attend classes five days a week for approximately six hours per day. 

The assignment for the class will be a travel journal documenting the student’s experience during the three-week period.  This journal will be turned in for review and feedback upon return to NIU.  Other assignments associated with the class lectures and field trips are designed to enhance the student’s cultural experience and not for evaluation purposes.

The course will offer graduate and undergraduate credit.  The graduate portion of the course will explore issues and concerns related to educational psychology in the schools of Ghana.  These concerns will be addressed and directed by Dr. McLeod, in conjunction with the faculty of the University College of Education at Winneba. 

PROGRAM ACADEMIC CREDIT: All participants will be required to enroll in one of the following NIU undergraduate or graduate courses.  The courses taken while participating in this program cannot be audited.

UNDERGRADUATE CREDIT
IDSP 302 Topics in Black Studies                                                           3 semester hours
Description: The intellectual, methodological, and paradigmatic traditions in Black studies related to a specific topic with a broad interdisciplinary perspective or scholarly and artistic research, practice, and theory pertaining to people of African descent.  May be repeated to a maximum of 6 semester hours when topic varies.

 

GRADUATE CREDIT
IDSP 401 Study Abroad Programs                                                           3 semester hours
Description: Course work undertaken as part of an approved university study abroad program.  May be repeated to a maximum of 9 semester hours.

INDEPENDENT STUDY/RESEARCH PROJECT:  Individuals desiring to earn three additional hours of undergraduate or graduate credit may do so by engaging in an independent study-research project under the direction of Dr. Yeary, program co-director.  The research report should be at least 10 pages for undergraduate credit and 15 pages for graduate credit. 

Requirements for Independent Study/Research Project:  In order to obtain project approval applicants must: 

1. Relate the project to a topic or subject introduced during the program.

2. Complete and submit the project for final evaluation to Dr. Yeary or Dr. McLeod as appropriate no later than July 15, 2008.

Participants who enroll for the independent research project will receive 3 semester hours in one of the following NIU courses:

UNDERGRADUATE CREDIT
IDSP 301 Study Abroad Programs                                                         3 semester hours
Description: Course work undertaken as part of an approved university study abroad program.  May be repeated to a maximum of 9 semester hours.

 

GRADUATE CREDIT
IDSP 401 Study Abroad Programs                                                         3 semester hours
Description: Course work undertaken as part of an approved university study abroad program.  May be repeated to a maximum of 9 semester hours.

APPLICATION AND ADMISSION PROCEDURES: The program is open to undergraduate, graduate students, and students-at-large who meet the NIU general admission requirements, and who are interested in African Studies and/or Educational Psychology from a Cross-Cultural Perspective.  Currently enrolled students must meet College of Liberal Arts course GPA requirements.  Graduate level students must also meet NIU Graduate School admission, course and GPA requirements.  

Students must be in good academic standing at the time of application.  Students who are on academic probation are not eligible to participate in study abroad programs.  Applicants must participate in the entire program and satisfy NIU undergraduate or graduate admission and course requirements.

Students cannot have any encumbrances against their NIU records.  Any encumbrances placed on a student’s records by NIU (i.e. the Graduate School, Undergraduate Admissions, Bursar’s Office, Accounts Receivable, Registration and Records, Health Services, Parking Services, etc.) must be cleared before a student is granted admission to a study abroad program. 

For undergraduate students to be admitted to the program, an applicant’s official transcript must be on file in the NIU Study Abroad Office.  Students who are currently enrolled at NIU, or who have previously enrolled at NIU, do not need to request an official transcript; the Study Abroad Office will make this request on behalf of the applicant.  Students who want to participate in the program and earn academic credit from NIU who have not previously enrolled at NIU, or who are not currently enrolled at NIU, should ask the Registrar at their institution to forward an official transcript as soon as possible to the Study Abroad Office.  (Student-issued transcripts and photocopies are not acceptable.)  Questions relating to the admission requirements or transcripts should be directed to the Study Abroad Office. 

Students who desire to obtain graduate credit must either be admitted to a graduate program within the NIU Graduate School, or be admitted to the status of a “student-at-large” (SAL) within NIU’s Graduate School.  For students to be admitted to the program for graduate credit, the applicant’s official transcript must be on file in the NIU SAO.  Students who are currently enrolled at NIU, or who have previously enrolled at NIU, do not need to request an official transcript.  However, students who will participate in the program in order to earn academic credit as an SAL (students who have not currently enrolled, nor are previously enrolled at NIU) must provide a transcript from the baccalaureate institution and from any institution at which graduate credit has been earned.  This document must be provided to the SAO before a student can be admitted as a SAL to the program.  

APPLICATION FORMS AND DEPOSIT: Applicants must submit the following at the time of application: 

1. Application for NIU Administered Study Abroad Programs

2. Student Application Agreement

3. Course Preference Form

4. $200 deposit

5. FOUR (4) passport size photos for visa

6. A clear and readable copy of the first page of passport (if student already has a passport

$200 DEPOSIT: Each application must be accompanied by a $200 check or money order made payable to NIU.  The $200 will be applied to the program cost.  Applications that are not accompanied by the $200 deposit will be returned to the sender.  (The $200 is also required of individuals who will be applying for financial aid.)  This deposit is non-refundable unless NIU cancels the program or is unable to accept your application.  

APPLICATION DEADLINE: March 15, 2008.  Applications submitted to the Study Abroad Office after March 15, 2008 must be accompanied by a check or money order for the full program cost in order to be considered for acceptance in this program.  After March 15, 2008 the Study Abroad Office will not accept applications unless they are accompanied by the full payment or a financial aid award letter. 

ACCOMMODATIONS AND MEALS: Participants will reside with host families affiliated with the University of Education at Winneba and guest houses (hotels) with private bath and toilet facilities.  Two meals daily will be provided throughout the period of residency. 

AIR TRANSPORTATION: Transportation between Chicago O’Hare and Accra, Ghana will be coordinated through the University of Nebraska at Lincoln Travel Office.  (Travel insurance is recommended.)   

LAND TRANSPORTATION:  For program-related travel the group will travel by coach.  This transportation is provided as part of the NIU program cost.   

PASSPORT – IMPORTANT! - All participants are required to possess a valid passport by Tuesday, April 1, 2008. Potential participants in the Ghana program who do not currently possess a valid passport must apply for one immediately.  Processing time for passports has increased and can vary significantly.  If you do not already have a passport or have not yet applied for a passport, it is IMPERATIVE that you do so immediately and is strongly recommended that you have your application expedited.  Information on processing times, how to apply for a passport and how to expedite your application can be found on the U.S. Department of State website at http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html.  Foreign passport holders may need special visas for travel and are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas.  Important Note:  U.S. passports must be valid SIX months beyond the intended stay overseas.  Applicants who do not have a passport by Tuesday, April 1, 2008 may not be granted a visa to enter Ghana and therefore will not be able to participate in the program.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VISA:   A valid passport is required by April 1, 2008 in order to obtain a visa to enter Ghana.    Applicants will be provided with visa application forms with their acceptance packets.  The visa application is included with the program application materials.  This form must be completed and turned in with your application.  On April 1^st the NIU Study Abroad Office will collect visa applications and required documents and submit them to the Embassy of Ghana in Washington, DC.

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS/VACCINATIONS: In order to enter Ghana, students will be required to obtain yellow fever, DPTt, tetanus, and MMR immunizations (if not current).  Additionally, students will need to obtain anti-malaria medication such as Lariam, and any other immunizations required by the World Health Organization for international travel. 

Contact the NIU University Health Service at least eight weeks before departure for the program to allow time for immunizations to take effect. The NIU University Health Service can advise students on what immunizations are required and can administer most immunizations.  Most immunizations require a fee.  Consult the Travel Clinic several months before you travel.  Some vaccines need to be given over a period of months, so participants in this program must START EARLY!

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT I.D. CARD (ISIC):  The ISIC card is provided as part of the program cost.  This card can provide discounts on international airfare.  Students will receive an application and instructions for obtaining this card when accepted into the program. 

The International Student Identity Card also includes a limited health and accident insurance policy, which is only valid outside the U.S.  Students will have to pay bills at the time of treatment and will be reimbursed later.  Students should, however, have a more comprehensive insurance plan to supplement the ID insurance.

 

NIU PROGRAM COST:  The cost of the program is payable in full to NIU by May 1, 2008.  The program cost pays for the following cost-related services: Travel between the U.S. and Ghana. Accommodations and two meals daily while the group is in Ghana.   Land transportation in Ghana. Admission fees to cultural and historical sites visited as part of the daily schedule. Fee for acquiring the visa to enter Ghana. NIU tuition for undergraduate or graduate credit.       NIU major medical insurance. PROGRAM COST:  $5,425

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

All prices quoted are subject to change. The information contained in the program documents and forms is presented in good faith and is believed to be correct as of the date presented.

 

Northern Illinois University reserves the right to amend, modify, revise, or delete any information appearing in these documents, including but not limited to the cost of the program.

 

Non-NIU students should consult with their home institutions regarding additional costs that may apply to study abroad. Non-NIU students are responsible for any study abroad charges imposed by their home institution.

 

ADDITIONAL COSTS TO PARTICIPANTS: 

• Cost of acquiring a passport (approximately $115).

• Immunization fees 

• $30 Undergraduate application fee for non-NIU undergraduate students.

• Independent travel and visa costs associated with independent travel. 

• Expenses for free-time pursuits. 

• Expenses and purchases of a personal nature.

FINANCIAL AID:  As a participant in a study abroad program through NIU, applicants may be eligible for:  Pell Grant, SEOG, Perkins Loan, PLUS Loan, Subsidized or Unsubsidized Stafford Loan, MAP Award or your privately awarded scholarship with consent of awarding organization.   Tuition waivers do not apply. 

Please contact Pamela Rosenberg, the International Programs Business Manager, Williston Hall 407, (815) 753-9530, prosenberg@niu.edu for more information. 

WITHDRAWAL FROM THE PROGRAM:  Applicants withdrawing from the program after March 15, 2008 will not be refunded the $200 program deposit. 

Applicants withdrawing from the program after this date will also be held accountable for any funds obligated on their behalf.  This provision is in effect even if the applicant has not submitted the $200 deposit or additional payments, and if the applicant is applying for financial aid. 

If the applicant must withdraw after March 15, 2008 for medical reasons, the $200 deposit will be refunded only if the request is submitted to the Study Abroad Office in writing and accompanied by a signed statement from a physician on the physician’s letterhead.  After this deadline, all funds obligated on your behalf can only be refunded if those monies are refunded to NIU by overseas agents and vendors.  

CANCELLATION OF THE PROGRAM:  The Study Abroad Office reserves the right to cancel this program if the minimum required enrollment is not attained.  If prior to the commencement of the program, a U.S. State Department Travel Warning is issued for Ghana, all applicants will be notified promptly of the warning and the possibility of cancellation of the program.  In the event that NIU’s International Programs Division cancels the program, students shall receive a full refund of all monies.  If, during the course of the program, a U.S. State Department Travel Warning is issued for Ghana, students will be promptly notified of the warning and the advisability of canceling the program.

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Tentative Daily Schedule
Sankofa: NIU in Ghana, West Africa

May 19 - June 7, 2008

 

Monday, May 19th	Depart O’Hare International Airport (ORD) for Accra, Ghana	3:00 PM
Tuesday, May 20th	Arrive Accra, Ghana Bus to University College of Education at Winneba Rest in the morning Welcome in the afternoon Lodging with host families	All Day
Wednesday, May 21st   thru Thursday, May 22nd	Morning lecture in African history Afternoon language lessons Culture learning projects Dinner Evening free	9:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. TBA
Friday, May 23rd	Depart for Cape Coast and Elmina Morning visit to Elmina slave dungeons Lunch at local restaurant Afternoon visit to Cape Coast slave dungeons Dinner with Co-Directors	9:00 a.m.
Saturday, May 24th	Depart for Kakum Rain Forest (all day) Lunch at Kakum Return to hotel - dinner on your own Evening to relax on the beach	All Day
Sunday, May 25th	Spend day with Host Families	All Day
Monday, May 26th   thru Thursday, May 29th	Morning lecture on African history Afternoon language lessons Culture learning projects Dinner Evening free	9:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. TBA
Friday, May 30th	Service Learning Project at UEW Practice School	All Day
Saturday, May 31st	Relax with Host Families	All Day
Sunday, June 1st	Morning departure for Volta Region Hotel Check-In/Relax Dinner on your own	All Day
Monday, June 2nd	Visit Lake Volta/Tour Nature Preserve	All Day
Tuesday, June 3rd	Depart for Kumasi, Ashanti Region Lunch at local restaurant Visit Central Market Lodging at local guest house (4-5 star hotel)	All Day
Wednesday, June 4th	Visit Wood-Carver’s village Visit Bonwire Kente weaver’s village Evening visit w/traditional priest at the Black/White    Power Shrine Dinner on your own	All Day
Thursday, June 5th	Visit Ashanti Cultural Center Visit Traditional Home of the Asante Paramount Chief Afternoon departure for Accra Accra City Tour Tour W.E.B. DuBois Center Check-in to hotel Dinner on your own
Friday, June 6th	Morning Free Visit Nkrumah Mausoleum Visit Arts Centre Dinner on your own Prepare to Depart