Diversity in Legon

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. On this page, local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter at their location.

The information below is just a broad overview so if you have specific questions or concerns not covered here, please email inclusion@ciee.org. We would be glad to have local staff share their perspectives, talk with you about accommodations, connect you with resources, and/or put you in touch with a program alum who could speak about their experiences navigating a program in this location.

No matter where you choose to study abroad with CIEE, our staff—all of whom receive regular and comprehensive training in diversity, equity, and inclusion—will be on hand throughout your program to provide advice, resources, and support regarding these issues. 

Body Size/Image

In Ghana, some people perceive being overweight as a sign of a healthy and prosperous life. Curvier body types are often considered more attractive than thinner ones. However, cultural beliefs about body size are gradually shifting due to media influence.

Disability

People with disabilities in Legon face significant challenges. Providing education or training for individuals with disabilities is sometimes viewed as a misallocation of family or societal resources. Many buildings, vehicles, and public spaces are not designed with accessibility in mind. This is true at the University of Ghana, where much of the infrastructure is not disability-friendly, including public transportation.

Students are encouraged to share detailed information about their disabilities or specific needs with CIEE staff before arrival. This allows staff to assess potential challenges and arrange for accommodations where possible.

Gender and Gender Identity

Ghanaian society is predominantly patriarchal, and women are expected to show deference to men in various social contexts, such as at home, in schools, and during family gatherings. Women are generally socialized to be more reserved and are less likely to initiate conversations with strangers. However, in some contexts, such as among Akan societies, women may wield significant influence due to the matrilineal system of inheritance.

X Gender Marker

The government of Ghana has not provided official guidance on processing X gender marker passports at airports and land borders. Travelers holding such passports are advised to contact the Ghanaian embassy in the U.S. for guidance on any additional documents that may be required to facilitate their entry.

Heritage Seekers

For heritage seekers, Ghana may evoke a range of emotions. Experiences vary, but being respectful of local culture and maintaining an open mind can foster meaningful connections. Learning simple phrases in the local language, such as Twi, is highly recommended.

Racial and Ethnic Identity

Racial identity and discrimination are not dominant topics in public discourse in Ghana as they are in the U.S. Issues such as the economy, ethnicity, religion, and politics tend to take precedence.

Asian individuals are often referred to as "Chinese," regardless of their nationality or heritage. This generalization may create challenges for Asian American students, especially given lingering perceptions linking COVID-19 to Asia, which can lead to avoidance or uncomfortable interactions.

CIEE staff are available during orientation and throughout the program to provide support and resources on matters of racial and ethnic identity.

Religion

Religion is deeply embedded in Ghanaian society, with approximately 95% of the population identifying as religious. Christianity is the dominant faith, followed by Islam and traditional religions. Religious expression is visible everywhere, from public transportation and billboards to shops and kiosks.

Practitioners of Christianity, Islam, and traditional religions generally coexist peacefully, with interfaith marriages and representation across political leadership. Non-Christian religions, such as Buddhism, Judaism, and Hinduism, are respected, and places of worship are available. People practicing less common religions may attract curiosity and might be invited to convert to a mainstream religion.

Sexual Orientation

Heteronormativity is deeply ingrained in Ghanaian society, shaping social interactions, religious practices, and laws. LGBTQIA+ identities are generally not accepted, and students are advised to exercise discretion when sharing their gender or sexual identities.

In 2024, Ghana’s parliament submitted an Anti-LGBTQ Bill for approval. This bill seeks to criminalize LGBTQ relationships and advocacy for LGBTQ rights. Students are strongly advised not to discuss LGBTQ topics outside of trusted CIEE staff, faculty, or peers.

Socioeconomic Status

The World Bank classifies Ghana as a lower middle-income economy. Depending on their home country, students may find the cost of living higher than expected. Accra, Ghana's capital, was ranked as the 63rd most expensive city out of 209 cities in the 2019 Mercer Cost of Living Survey.

To manage costs, plan and budget carefully for expenses such as public transportation, weekend trips, housing supplies, and phone or data use. Meals are often not included in study abroad program costs. Cooking meals, sharing meals with peers, and shopping at low-cost markets or canteens on campus are cost-saving strategies. Various eateries at the University of Ghana Legon campus offer freshly cooked, affordable food options.