Lancaster University Ghana launched it’s Global Health Summer Programme this June, where around 20 students who study an undergraduate level course in health and infectious disease and will work on public health projects with relevant organisations in Ghana.
The annual study abroad program will be co-delivered by staff from Boston University and Lancaster University while students at Lancaster University Ghana will act as chaperones and engage students on extra-curricular activities.
There have been many improvements in health care for Ghanaians but they still face most of the common diseases that are endemic for sub-Saharan African countries. Malaria is still the biggest cause of mortality in Ghana with a third of hospital admissions being due to this insect borne disease. The course and community internship will provide students with a view to both the biology and practical challenges of managing disease from a healthcare policy and delivery perspective.
Due to the increasing interest with health care, Lancaster University Ghana is set to host a health conference on 8th and 9th September under the theme ‘Current and Future Challenges for Medical Management in West Africa’
The summer school is open to current students at Boston University and Lancaster University who have completed at least one year of undergraduate studies including at least one undergraduate course in biomedical or biological sciences. Boston University and Lancaster University will select their own students to take part. Students will live in modern style dorm rooms within a short walk from the LUG campus.
Lancaster University’s Accra-based branch campus was launched in 2013 and is the only one of its kind in West Africa. It is committed to producing graduates who have the skills and knowledge to meet Africa’s industrial, societal and governmental needs. Students across Africa now can access Lancaster’s academic excellence in teaching and research on the African continent.
A key element of Lancaster’s global strategy is to forge closer teaching and research collaborations with international partners.
Vice Chancellor of Lancaster University – Professor Mark E. Smith said: “I am delighted that this partnership with Boston University, which is an internationally prestigious and highly ranked institution, will give our students a truly exciting international experience and a global perspective on issues that affect society as a whole. By leveraging the presence we have in Ghana, students will have the chance to work on real issues around health and infectious disease.”
