Continuing internationalization efforts in key regions throughout the world, Trent International and Trent University’s president and vice-chancellor led a delegation to Ghana in early January 2019, the first of three countries strategically targeted for expansion in Africa.

The Ghana leg of the excursion was aided by Dr. David Firang, a professor of Social Work at Trent University, who is originally from Ghana and holds many contacts in regions throughout the country. The January 2019 visit focused on institutions and applicants in Accra and Cape Coast, as an extension of a long association between Trent and Ghana. 

Institutions visited in Accra included the Ghana Technology University College, University of Ghana – both the Centre for Climate Change & Sustainability Studies and the Office of International Programmes – Methodist University College, and Pentecost University College. In Cape Coast, officials met with leaders at the University of Cape Coast as well as Trent students currently studying abroad there.

“We have found the institutions in Ghana to be very open and creative in exploring collaborations and have been struck by Ghana’s welcoming culture and the warmth of the people of Ghana,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, Trent’s president and vice-chancellor. “Meeting with our own Trent students currently studying abroad at the University of Cape Coast was a highlight as were their accounts of the impact of their experiences.”

The Trent in Ghana program has provided Trent students with the opportunity to study abroad and gain experiential learning opportunities through placements in communities throughout Ghana for decades. Dr. Paul Shaffer in International Development Studies at Trent has overseen the program for the past four years, while it has been offered in partnership with the University of Cape Coast. At the meeting with the Trent delegation, the students shared their impressions of their Ghana experience in one word – watch the video.

While in Ghana, the Trent team also met with prospective students at the undergraduate and graduate level, applicants to Trent and their parents. “These students are delighted to hear more details about Trent and its living and learning environment,” said Glennice Burns, Trent University’s associate vice-president International. “For our students from Trent, studying in Ghana is an education in itself, especially for students who have not previously experienced the developing world.”

An ongoing feature of Trent’s international visits has been a travelling virtual reality tour of campus. A headset using three-dimensional imagery transports students to the Trent campus where they can feel the excitement of being aboard a rowing scull on the Otonabee River, walk across the Faryon Bridge, and sit in on a seminar.

Next stops for the delegation include Rwanda and Kenya.

Ghana Technology University College

University of Ghana

Methodist University College

Pentecost University College