I didn’t realise the value of my parents and all the blessings I have received until we embarked on a touching and inspiring trip to Akorlikope, which I like to call the Village of Hope. As much as this trip occurs every year, I believe it still retains its value. The smiles of the children put a warm feeling in my heart, which was a very nostalgic feeling for me. I believe this trip has been one of the best school coordinated programs I have been involved in and, I don’t mind enjoying this experience with the next batch of students. (Ohene Acheamfour _ G11)

I can’t say my Akorlikope trip has been like anything I have experienced before but one thing I can say is that it’s my most eye-opening experience. Engaging with the children of Akorlikope made me aware of certain values I took for granted like the essence of teamwork. Seeing my colleagues break into various committees to get the hectic task ahead of us done in time made me realize the beauty of teamwork. After this trip, I’m more open minded to working in groups and with this renewed mind set, my CAS project will involve a collaboration with my grade mates. Thinking about the trip as a whole allowed me to understand the true meaning behind the establishment of a CAS project. Now CAS activities are not things I just participate in order to get my diploma but more about making an impact in my society and helping out in any way I can. To describe my entire trip in one word, I would say it was absolutely life-changing. (Mamle Kwao _ G11)

CAS Trip to Akorlikope Aug 2017

The idea of going to Akorlikope actually excited me. Usually I make it a  point not to expect anything so that disappointment doesn’t hit me, however, this time things were different. I pondered about the environment, the weather, the children and seeing everything from a different perspective. Upon our arrival I instantly realized why Tema International School consistently visited this community. Although this project is five years old now, from what I’ve seen there’s more that can be done. This reality motivated me to join the construction team, to aid the building process of three new rooms. The idea of getting the work done motivated us so much we did not cherish our designer shoes. This feeling is unexplainable. It showed the amount of personal growth elicited and the importance we attributed to this project. Overall, this was a very fruitful trip and I honestly cannot wait to go for the second one in January. (Sedo Muller Sezan _ Grade 11)

My first time at Akorlikope was filled with so much joy and gladness, thanks to my great team members and our students. Interacting with the children of Akorlikope was great; as a supervisor of the Literacy committee I had the opportunity to observe the G11 Students teaching the Graceland kids. Teaching them the importance of hygiene was worth the trip.  The TIS students were very engaged and committed to all that they had to do. The entire experience was pleasantly enlightening. As we went about taking pictures of the various activities, I felt a deep sense of fulfillment. Seeing the Akorlikope kids happy and the TIS students going all out to make an impact was just satisfying. It was a good experience which was blessed with a beautiful rain while we set off back to Tema. (Abigail Ahiadorme _ CASSA & Creative Arts Intern)

A Journey to remember – The trip to Akorlikope – My moments of joy, I thought had always been in the city. However, my trip to Akorlikope was the most exciting pursuit and life changing experience. Certainly it was my first time visiting such a remote area. Prior to the journey, I asked few staff members and students about Akorlikope and what to expect there. The responses undoubtedly yielded such mixed feelings but the real “ME” wanted to experience the trip regardless. My anxiety gradually sunk as we got closer to the village. I could draw a fine distinction between two extreme settlements and life. We travelled through the bushes demarcated with bumpy roads that felt a little dangerous. Also coming in physical contact with children in that location was heartbreaking. Nevertheless, I recalled the imbalances nature bestowed on us – you can never choose your biological linkages or your geographical location. I began to appreciate who I am, where I find myself and the need to reach out to the less privilege. The most intriguing part was how the entire TIS family members on the trip exhibited team and bonding spirit through play and other activities. This bit coupled with nature’s reality made the trip worth experiencing, understanding and appreciating human behaviour far better. In my spirit of a frank and real experience, I will encourage each member of TIS to have a feel of the trip to Akorlikope BUT not without me. (Julia Duah – School Nurse)

CAS Trip to Akorlikope Aug 2017

Progress comes with time and consistency. Six years it has been since TIS stepped its feet at Akorlikope. Six years of working together to build a community. Whereas it is easy to get weary with time of doing good, the self-conviction of leaving lasting joyful impressions in the hearts and minds of the other is motivating enough to keep you going. It’s only  my third expedition to Akorlikope and I look forward to many more. I look forward to the smiles of those children who probably eat doughnut and kalypo twice in a year; when they see the TIS bus. I look forward to the rise and completion of the school building, to provide shelter for those kids who but for that, will resort to learning under trees, and I also look forward to drinking korkli and eating abolo. I look forward to many things; to trekking to the muddy pond that serves the entire village with water and as disheartening as this is, like Robert F. Kennedy, I choose to see the good in Akorlikope and ask why not.  (Ebenezer Asime _ CASSA Advisor)​