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Program Overview

Roots & Routes Unveiled: Tracing Ghana and Togo’s Revolutionary Legacy from the Gold Coast to Global Innovation Legacy

Embark on a transformative two-semester program that takes you through the nation's rich history, vibrant culture, and commitment to community development. From bustling cities to serene villages, you will delve into Ghana's customs, laws and tribal rituals.

In IDH 4007, you will explore the interconnected history and culture of Ghana and Togo on campus while learning how it became a modern hub of technology, innovation and global entrepreneurship.

Your experiences will take shape in IDH 4008 as you engage in an eye-opening exploration of Ghana’s historical sites, cultural traditions and local communities. Through dynamic lectures, hands-on workshops, guided excursions and impactful service projects, you will deepen their appreciation for African history, culture, and the challenges and opportunities that define contemporary Ghanaian society.

Program Start: Sunday, May 16, 2027

Program End: Saturday, June 5, 2027

Application opens soon

The 2027 Honors Study Abroad application window opens September 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. EDT. 
Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until January 8, 2027, or until all spaces are filled.

PROGRAM DETAILS

What you'll be doing

  • Meeting University of Ghana students
  • Exploring Kakum tropical rainforest
  • Volunteering at local schools by painting classrooms and common areas and engaging with school kids
  • Exploring Lomé National Museum, Akodessewa Fetish Market, and the Artisanal Village
  • Visiting Shai Hills Forest Reserve
  • Participating in a traditional craft beads workshop

Map of Ghana and Togo with the itinerary for the study abroad program

  • Day 1-4: Accra

    Attend a welcome orientation with elders and tailors. Highlights include an Accra city tour, W.E.B. Du Bois Memorial Centre for Pan-African Culture, National Museum, Independence Square, Aburi Botanical Gardens, University of Ghana, ATV ride through nature and villages, and more.

  • Day 5-6: Kumasi

    Travel to Kumasi by bus. Visits to traditional villages (Adanwomasie, Ntunso), home of Nana Taa Asantewaa, city tour of Kumasi, Manhyia Palace Museum, National Cultural Centre, Prempeh II Jubilee Museum, Ketetia Market and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.

  • Day 7-13: Elmina

    Travel by bus to Elmina with a stop in Assin Manso to participate in the "First Bath Of Return" ceremony in Ndonkor Nsuo (Enslaved African River). Activities include visits to Cape Coast Castle, University of Cape Coast, Elmina fishing market, and Elmina Castle. We will also take a day trip to Kakum Tropical Rainforest to experience the Canopy Walkway (1,150 ft) that connects seven treetops.

    While in Elmina, four days will be dedicated to a multi-faceted effort to support a local school and its students. Students will transform the school's classrooms and common areas with fresh coats of paint. Additionally, students will engage with local students by conducting interactive sessions, sharing their knowledge and inspiring young minds. FIU Honors students will provide much-needed school supplies to support the educational needs of the local students.

  • Day 14-15: Accra

    Travel by bus back to Accra with a stop for a Shea Butter Processing Workshop on the way, along with a visit to Fort Amsterdam.

  • Day 16-18: Lomé

    Travel overland by bus to Lomé, Togo with a stop for border check. Students will visit Kwame Akoto-Bamfo, Grand Marché, Sacred Heart Cathedral, Lomé National Museum, Akodessewa Fetish Market, Artisanal Village and top university faculty. Take a day trip to Aného and Togoville.

  • Day 19-21: Accra

    Travel back to Accra, with a stop for border check and a river cruise on the Volta River. Activities include Shai Hills Forest Reserve, a hike in ancient caves, traditional craft beads workshop, arts and crafts market, farewell dinner and transfer to the airport. End of program.

This is a living document, meaning that scheduled Free Time may be utilized for in-person quizzes, class meetings, and/or class days. Students should always consult with their Faculty Director prior to scheduling plans during Free Time.

Cost & Aid

  • Airport pick-up and drop off
  • Mineral water
  • 20 nights in handpicked accommodations
  • 24/7 support from expert Faculty Director
  • Private naming ceremony
  • International travel medical insurance
  • Local tour guide
  • All ground transportation
  • Admission to traditional home of Nana Yaa Asantewaa, Elimina Castle, Fort Amsterdam, Cape Coast Castle, and so much more

Your Faculty Director

Trina Sanders is an Instructional Design Manager for FIU Online, supporting FIU CASE. Trina is also an Adjunct Professor currently teaching The Power of Black Music in America for the Honors College and the First Year Experience Course for the Division of Academic and Career Success.

Trina is a lifelong learner with over 20 years of experience in Corporate Training and Development, in both asynchronous and synchronous learning environments. She obtained a Doctor of Education with concentrations in Organizational Leadership, and in Instructional Technology and Distance Education from Nova Southeastern University. She also holds a Master of Science in Adult Education and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. On a personal note, Trina enjoys reading novels and volunteering in her community. She is also a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Read more about Professor Sanders

Trina Sanders

Frequently Asked Questions