Report by Audrey Antwi-Assimeng (Grade 11 A _Class Rep)
The IB class of 2018 visited Akorlikope on the 25–26 August, 2016 to engage in a CAS Orientation/Service Learning Trip. Once there, we were placed in our colour groups: Red, Yellow, Green and Blue, and tasked to build a bird nest. The essence of this challenge was to instill in us the spirit of teamwork and unity. These qualities were very valuable and helped us to make a great impact in the lives of the students at Akorlikope.
The trip was entertaining and an eye-opening experience. We were grouped into different sections: Cooking, Knowing the Akorlikope inhabitants, Edutainment, Educom, Art & Craft, Photography, and Sports. We were able to cook for the lovely kids and also engaged them in outdoor activities like football, skipping and ampe. In addition, we had the chance to educate them on how to wash their hands properly. Although the majority of us faced the challenge of not being able to speak the native dialect, Ewe, it did not stop us from interacting with the people of Akorlikope.
We also visited the Akorlikope town, which I must say was quite a saddening, yet humbling experience. Most of the people didn’t have much to do apart from working on their farms, yet they were content with what they have. The visit to the town was such an eye opener for my grade mates, as it allowed us to be very grateful for all we have, and even more so, to be caring and show empathy towards the less privileged.
Reflections from IB 1 Students
Chloe Owusua Asiedu_Grade 11 – For me, the Akorlikope trip was very eye-opening. I got to see different perspectives of life. Akorlikope made me aware of how sometimes being naïve is sometimes the best state than being overwhelmed with knowledge. It allowed us to treasure their current lifestyle and appreciate the simple things in life. I still recount the precious moments I spent with the children. The trip opened a vigil for me being able to help and impact on others to always strive for the better.
Jacqueline Tetteh _Grade 11 – It took me less than a minute to prepare Yake Yake! That’s how good I am in the kitchen. Akorlikope was such an awesome experience! We worked together as a team to put smiles on the faces of our little siblings in Akorlikope. The jollof was just the best. I would like to say a big thank you to the CAS Team for a memorable 2-day trip. I learnt so much from this trip, especially how to prepare Yake Yake.
Tsui Odonkor_Grade 11 – Akorlikope was a fantastic experience. We had a blast helping such deprived kids, teaching them new skills and also getting to prepare such delicious meals which we shared with them. It was great. The trip helped me to understand how tough life really is for some people and how things I took for granted meant so much to them. All in all, the trip was a tremendous success.
Kelsy Searyoh_Grade 11 – Going to Akorlikope, I had made up my mind that this trip would not be worthwhile due to the fact I was going to a village. But I was proven wrong! The trip was possibly the most heartwarming and eye opening experience I have ever had. Nothing can compare!
Adwoa Asantewaa Owusu Boamah_Grade 11 – When we got to Akorlikope and entered their library of the school, the books were in disarray and dust had covered the whole class. But after three (3) tiresome hours of cleaning up, the library was totally transformed into a more pleasant and appealing space for learning. At the end of the day, the satisfaction we felt overshadowed our weariness.
Andrew Nartey_IB1 – The trip to Akorlikope was very special for me and my grade mates. We were on a mission to help children who are less privileged and can’t afford to pay their school fees and who just can’t afford some basic things in life. One of our experiences was to visit the town to see how the people of Akorlikope live and know more about their culture. I was inspired and amazed by an old man who had stroke and was crippled and owned a pepper farm. He was always smiling; he does all the work himself by sitting on a small stool. This really inspired me. But the best part of the trip for me was interacting with the children and helping out in the kitchen. I learnt the value of contentment, because people in these areas lack basics things, even though they seem more appreciative than some of us. We are grateful that we managed to pay school fees for 50 children in Graceland Academy, with the support and donations from students and teachers. Akpe!!!
Reflections from Accompanied Staff
Alex Tay: Head – Sports Department / Boarding Liaison Officer
It is always a pleasure going to Akorlikope and this year’s trip with the current IB 1’s was humbling. The students exhibited so much maturity and caring for the kids at Akorlikope. I was amazed at their team spirit. I look forward to their CAS Projects.
Gabriel Mensah: School Driver – As a driver, the roads are always my utmost priority; getting everybody to their destinations safely. But when going to Akorlikope, not only do I get to drive, but also, I get to see students engage in community service with passion, and help out with cooking and any other activity. I think the CAS Project at Akorlikope is worth commending and I look forward to more of such trips.
Reflections from Graceland Academy Students (Akorlikope)
Jennifer – When the TIS students come here, they teach and play with us. We are happy when they come. We look forward to their next visit; we would like to play ampe and skipping with them.
Promise – I am in Class 6 and my favourite subjects are Ewe and English. I want to be a Medical Doctor because I want to make people happy. I enjoyed the football we played and the jollof rice. I also enjoyed the drawing class; I drew a football.
