THROUGH MY LOOKING GLASS – A YEAR IN GHANA FROM A PERSPECTIVE OF A ROTARY AMBASSADORIAL SCHOLAR

In 2010, Sarah Ehlinger graduated from Lawrence University with a major in geology.  Sarah returned from Ghana 4 weeks ago with the Ambassadorial Scholarship program. Sarah received a $26,000 scholarship to study at the University of Ghana and started a Master’s of Philosophy program in geography and resource development.  The objectives of the Ambassadorial Scholarship program is to increase awareness of and respect for cultural differences by sending ambassadors of goodwill to study in another country, instill in scholars the Rotary ideal of Service Above Self through active participation in Rotary service projects, encourage scholars to dedicate their personal and professional lives to improving the quality of life for the people of their home community and country, develop leaders who can address the humanitarian needs of the world community, make an impact on all areas of the world through a balanced geographical distribution of scholars and foster a lifelong association between Rotary and its scholars.  The population of Ghana is 24.97 million people.  Its economy is based on oil, cocoa, mining (gold) and timber.  English is the official language but there are many local dialects.  Before Ghana became an independent nation, it was known as the “gold coast” and it was a Portuguese and British colony.  Ghana became independent in 1957.  Kwame Nkrumah (1909-1972) was the first president of Ghana, fought for its independence and was an opponent of Pan-Africanism.  Sarah’s host club was the Rotary Club of Accua West.  The Club was involved in water, literacy and the Alliance for Smiles projects.  Her host parents were both Rotarians and they have 7 children who treated Sarah like a sister.  Ghana has the infrastructure but it rarely works.  For the first semester, her dorm did not have flowing water.  When Sarah wanted to flush the toilet, take a shower, cook or do laundry, she had to carry a bucket of water up three flights of stairs. Power was often out since more money could be made selling it.  Sarah ate rice, chicken and Fufu.   Paintings beautified everyday African life.  African movements are incorporated in salsa dancing.  Sarah also visited Sierra Leon and Togo.  Most outsiders see Africa mainly through three lenses:  conflict, poverty and corruption.  Things are not always as they seem. Being an ambassador is a two way process – you learn about their country and teach others about yours to bring about understanding.