My name is Efia Awuah, and I am a secondary school student at SOS Herman Gmeiner International College. Although I primarily read mathematics and science at school, I am deeply interested in issues pertaining to African development. I applied to CDD-Ghana’s Senior High School Internship Program to learn more about these issues; to gain hands-on experience and develop skills that will enable me solve problems and contribute to working towards effecting change on the African continent. Join me on this journey as I share my experience at CDD-Ghana through weekly blog posts.
Day 1 – July 8, 2019
My mate and I have spent less than a day at CDD-Ghana but already, I feel incredibly welcomed and excited for the weeks to come. Our day began with an introductory session with Mrs Priscilla Abaidoo, the Human Resources Manager. She briefed us on the organization’s vision, mission, and values, and fielded all the inquiries we had about the organization. We were then given a tour of the organization and introduced to the wonderfully warm staff members. I haven’t quite gotten everyone’s name yet, but I will remember the friendly jokes and introductions, indicative of an inclusive work environment.
Following our tour, we were then introduced to the details of our internship program, which will have us develop our familiarity with the unique challenges facing Ghana and Africa as a whole. We will have the opportunity to interact with the knowledgeable and experienced CDD-Ghana staff and complete tasks within various departments. Research, writing, and analysis are a few of the skills we hope to gain from the activities available to us in this program.
Lastly, we were each assigned a director, who will act as a guide and mentor for us throughout the internship. I have the amazing opportunity to be working under Dr. Edem Selormey, the Director of Research. Our first meeting was an opportunity for both of us to express our goals and hopes for the month. Dr. Selormey was very reassuring, offering encouragement and assistance. I am grateful to have access to her support and insight during this program. Overall, this has been a great first day. I can’t wait to see what this month has in store.
