Bridging Cultures, Building Leaders: RLND Class X Explores Global Perspectives in Ghana for Seminar 8
Class X – International seminar: Ghana February 11-23, 2025
Written by the Seminar 8 Communications Team: Christie Jaeger, Hilde van Gijssel and Katie Wentz
DAY 1 (February 11, 2025): travel from ND to Amsterdam
Class X along with their leaders, Katie and Marie, left from varying airports across ND to meet up in Minneapolis for the flight to Amsterdam.
DAY 2 (February 12, 2025): Travel from Amsterdam to Accra.
Class X spent time eating, resting and catching up with one another during a long layover at the Amsterdam Airport. Class X member Hilde was able to leave for a few hours and have a special breakfast with her family members! After arriving at the Accra airport, navigating customs and retrieving all our luggage successfully, we found our tour guide Yao and our trusted driver Kofi. Luggage and class members were loaded onto our bus and taken to our hotel. The warm air felt wonderful!
DAY 3 (February 13, 2025): Accra
Class X’s first full day was packed with history, culture, and connection! We began with visits to Black Star Square and the Independence Arch, powerful symbols of Ghana’s independence. A stop at the U.S. Embassy provided insight into U.S.-Ghana relations as we learned from employees with the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service as their mission is to link U.S. Agriculture to the world to enhance exports and global food security. Ghana has a high demand for corn to feed their growing poultry production which we will learn more about throughout the seminar.
We had a delicious lunch at a well-known restaurant in Accra called Azmera, featuring authentic Ghanaian cuisine. The food is more spicey than we North Dakotans are used to!
The afternoon included a driving tour of Accra, where we experienced the energy and vibrancy of Ghana’s capital city. We then visited Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park to learn about Ghana’s first president and the country’s journey to independence. The Ghanaians are proud of their first president who had a vision for the country that was to build both on the traditions and looking forward.
Our first day was also a day of opposites. While it was -20 degrees in ND it was 93 degrees in Accra, so Class X needed some adjusting. Accra is a city in transition. We saw a lot of new construction for housing, hotels, businesses and parks but also the Old Town of Accra with buildings that are 300 years old with small alleyways and little shops in every building.
While driving your car, you can buy anything while waiting for a traffic light. We saw people selling Q-Tips, insecticide, drinks, hats, steering wheels, wiper blades (free installment while waiting for the red light), snacks of a wide variety, eggs, and drinks. Our guide Yao told us that this was a way for people to earn money to get more education (upward mobility). Most amazing to all of us was that all the products for sale were carried on their heads with unbelievable stability (easily 20-30 pounds).
We wrapped up an incredible first day with a refreshing swim at our hotel to cool off!
DAY 4 (February 14, 2025): Accra to Tafo to Kibi
On our second full day in Ghana, Class X travelled to what felt like a different world. We left the city of Accra behind for the trip to Kibi, a small town on the way to Kumasi (Ghana’s second largest city). While Accra is a big city and resembles cities in the US, the countryside is different. The vegetation changed to more forested areas interspersed with many communities of small houses and alleyways with banana/plantain plants, palm trees and coconut trees in their yards. There were lots of small shops on the street that sold their products. The products varied by region and would change during the journey. Here we saw a lot of casava flour. We stopped to buy fresh mangos, soursop fruit, bananas and pineapples. They tasted so much better here!
Our first visit was the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG) in Tafo. At CRIG, we delved into the intricate processes behind the production of cocoa, coffee, and various other plant species. Touring the institute’s farm, we learned how different plants are nurtured to achieve optimal yields. This experience underscored the vital role of research and innovation in agriculture, highlighting how leadership in this sector drives sustainable practices and economic growth. The CRIG was very interesting, supporting the farmers in maximizing their production. We were able to see the entire cocoa process, from the beans growing on the trees, to how they are harvested and fermented, and finally dried in the sun. They also pioneer using the by-products of the beans for other products such as soaps and lotions to increase the earning capacity of the local farmers. The award for best presentation went to the Official Bean Taster (one of 5 in the country) who showed us by presenting chocolate made from fermented beans how tight the process is. Chocolate tastes very different from beans that fermented just a day too long or too short. The visit reminded us how very similar CRIG is to how NDSU Extension research works in North Dakota in supporting farmers.
In the afternoon, we embarked on an adventurous journey to the Kibi Goldfields Ltd., Ghana’s only wholly owned gold mine. Ghana has a rich history with their gold industry, as the tribes have used gold for centuries. The early Europeans found gold dust on the shores, which led them to establish trades and forts in Ghana. At the mine, we delved into the gold mining process and observed their reclamation efforts firsthand. The modern gold mining has its own complications, and illegal mining is an issue. However, witnessing the intricate balance between resource extraction and environmental stewardship highlighted the importance of responsible leadership in the mining industry. It’s inspiring to see how Ghanaian-owned enterprises are leading the way in sustainable practices.
DAY 5 (February 15, 2025): Kibi to Kumasi
Class X embarked on the trip from Kibi to Kumasi. Kumasi is the capital of the Ashanti region, the heart of Ghana, which is still a kingdom. We also moved into the forest region of the country, so the products on the side of the road changed to wooden bowls and clay pots. We travelled on the main road from Accra to Kumasi with lots of trucks, as that is the main method for transportation of goods. Every intersection had an active market.
Class X was very impressed with our driver Kofi’s skills in maneuvering our bus through traffic, potholes, and other obstacles on the roadway! We were always kept very safe under his watchful eye. The roads we traveled would be a mix of good pavement and dirt with many bumps and holes. Traffic signals are very few and the horns on vehicles are used in many ways! Our guide, Yao, continued to point out sites along the way of significance and answer any questions the class had, along with keeping the water cooler full!
Before we arrived in Kumasi, we made a stop at the Kumah Farms, dedicated to supporting local farmers in maximizing their practice. The Kumah Farms Complex, a remarkable establishment founded in 1998 by Martin Kwaku Kumah, located in the Ejisu-Juaben District, is a hub of diverse agricultural activities. The farm focused on ranching and farming so we saw a fish hatchery, raising of pigs, development of a hybrid breed of dairy cows, and a snail farm. We also saw an ostrich, alligator, crocodile and tortoise in their little zoo. The farm also cultivates a variety of crops, including maize, citrus, cocoa, and vegetables. Catfish are very popular in Ghana, and we were able to see how the farm stocks their ponds with babies, how they call the fish to feed in the pond, and how they catch them with nets. The farm is based on tradition but committed to improving practices by providing support to the farmers.
After a lunch break at Ikes Bar and Grill, we closed the day with impressive presentation about the Ashanti History and culture and rich heritage of the Ashanti region at the Kumasi Cultural Center. This vibrant hub offered a deep dive into the history, culture, and significant symbols of the Ashanti people. We saw traditional crafts like Kente weaving, pottery, and wood carvings. We learned about former kings and queen mothers. A highlight was learning more about Adinkra symbols, each carrying profound meanings that reflect the values and philosophies of the Ashanti. Understanding these symbols underscored the importance of cultural awareness in leadership, reminding us that embracing and promoting heritage fosters community pride and continuity—key elements for impactful leadership.
After a long day, we took a quick dip in the pool to cool off before sitting down for a delicious dinner at our hotel. It was another incredible day of learning, connection, and cultural discovery in Ghana!
DAY 6 (February 16, 2025): Kumasi
The first visit of the day was to the new Bonwire Kente Museum where we learned about the importance of Kente cloth traditions for the Ghanaian culture. Original to the Ashanti region, Kente cloth has been adopted by the whole country. It is more than just a fabric, Kente is a symbol of history, leadership, and identity with each pattern and color telling a story. All the colors and patterns have a meaning, and the museum showed an impressive collection of examples some over a hundred years old. The museum also had a working weaver where local boys learned the craft and make a living. Many class members purchased Kente cloth from the artisans that had a shop at the museum. Watching the artisans at the looms was very impressive. After an insightful morning, we made a stop for some fresh coconut water (nothing beats hydration straight from the source!) before enjoying a delicious lunch at Jofel, a local restaurant.
The afternoon visit was to the Manhyia Palace Museum, home to the rich history of the Ashanti Kingdom and its leadership legacy. Walking through the halls where several Ashanti kings have ruled, we learned how tradition, resilience, and vision have shaped leadership in this region for centuries. This visit highlighted the pride of the Ashanti in their history and way of living. The Ashanti people refused to receive the palace building as a gift from the British as they did not want to be in debt. On February 8, 2024, exactly 150 years after the British entered Kumasi and looted the palace, they returned some of the gold pieces they had stolen back to the Ashanti Kingdom, and they were on display in the Palace Museum.
One of the gifts of the trip was to hear the history from the perspective of the Ghanaian people, and we discovered that it is much richer than our history books relay. The succession of the King is not a direct succession, so the children of the king cannot become king. The sons of the females in the king family are eligible for the position of King. The Queen Mother, who can be related to the king, but not married to the King, is instrumental in selecting the next king. We learned that leadership in the Ashanti region is a great example of servant leadership.
DAY 7 (February 17, 2025): Kumasi
Class X visited the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi. This is the second largest campus in Ghana with 60,000 students. The campus was well organized, and we saw students everywhere. The visit was with professors of the Biochemistry Department. Their focus is on the active ingredients of the traditional herbal medicine with the focus of making it safer and more reproducible for use and to develop different formulas to administer the medicine. A tour through the herbal garden showed the wide variety of plants that have medicinal properties. It was interesting to see again how Ghanaians honor traditions while also utilizing modern technology to improve resources for its people. A powerful reminder that leadership isn’t just about innovation—it’s also about preserving and honoring the wisdom of the past. One of the challenges the professors spoke to us about was the lack of regulation and standardization in the FDA of Ghana. This concern was evident in many ways throughout our journey from highway systems to garbage collection, and overall safety.
We had another wonderful Ghanaian lunch, because no great learning experience is complete without great food! Lunch was followed by a drive through Kejetia Market—one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa! With its endless rows of vendors, colorful fabrics, fresh produce, and nonstop movement, Kejetia is a true hub of commerce and entrepreneurship. The sheer number of people and activity made it impossible to get off the bus, but even from our seats, it was an incredible sight to witness. It’s a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t just found in boardrooms, it thrives in the energy, adaptability, and hustle of everyday life. After a full day, everyone had the evening free to relax, explore, or enjoy more of Kumasi at their own pace.
DAY 8 (Febrary 18, 2025): Kumasi to Elmina
On this day, Class X moved from Kumasi back to the coastal destination of Elmina. On the way, Class X stopped at the Wireko Asubonteng Farms Limited, a rapidly growing agricultural enterprise committed to sustainability, innovation, and continuous improvement. This farm was founded in 2020 by CEO Augustine Wireko Asubonteng who Class X recognized as an inspirational leader who has a vision, knowledge and values he puts into practice. The farm started with 15,000 birds, 10 sows, and 2 boars, but they have ambitious plans to expand to 150,000 layers and launch broiler production (10,000 birds per cycle).
The farm is powered by solar energy and is working toward a closed-loop system by expanding greenhouse vegetable and coconut production—furthering their commitment to environmentally conscious, sustainable farming and supporting the local economy. CEO Augustine Wireko Asubonteng also shared a powerful message about his vision, the needs and future for the Ghanaian agriculture and that good willing NGO's can get in the way of local leaders and progress.
A common phrase that we heard from Augustine and that we encountered by others in Ghana is their need to “change our mindset on farming” to feed their growing population. The corn/maize supply they need for feed and access to capital (at 36% interest rates!) are also challenges to larger scale agriculture. His insights together with the presentation of Farm Operations Manager Emmanuel Nyame, coupled with their philosophy that “Our people is our strength,” made this visit a powerful example of leadership, vision, and innovation in agriculture.
Our second stop of the day was a delicious lunch at House in the Trees, a perfect place to refuel as we made our way back to the coast. Great food, stunning views, and even better company, the perfect recipe for a memorable meal in Ghana!
In the afternoon, we visited Assin Manso and the Slave River, a powerful and emotional experience that brought us face-to-face with a deeply impactful part of history. Assin Manso was a key transit point along the transatlantic slave trade, where enslaved people took their final bath in the Slave River before being marched to the coast. Standing on these historic grounds was a stark reminder of the resilience, strength, and enduring spirit of those who came before us. The significance and history of the Slave River visit was different in many ways for all of us. Sharing these moments together was very profound. This visit reinforced the importance of remembering, learning, and leading with awareness, because understanding history is key to shaping a better future.
After a long journey, we arrived at our hotel on the coast, where the waves and ocean breeze gave us a much-needed opportunity to recharge. We ended the day with a delicious meal under the stars, sharing insights, laughter, and anticipation for what’s next on this incredible journey. From sustainable farming to historical reflection and coastal relaxation, today was a true blend of growth, leadership, and connection!
DAY 9 (February 19, 2025): Elmina
We kicked off the day with a Ghanaian birthday celebration for Class X member Hilde! We got to experience a traditional birthday dish: Etoa (pronounced Otto), a delicious combination of mashed yam, eggs, and palm oil.
We stepped into Elmina Castle, one of the most sobering and significant historical sites in Ghana. Elmina Castle was a powerful reminder that when we stop seeing people as human but instead see them as commodities, cruelty has no limits. People’s existence simply was erased and bodies discarded. The contrast between slaves being held in the dungeons with the Dutch colonizers worshipping in a chapel right above was almost too much to bear. Hearing the story from the Ghanaian perspective was powerful and important to understanding this history and served as a reminder that the wealth of colonizers was built on the sacrifices of African people. It is estimated that almost 2 million enslaved Africans left the African Coast through the Door of No Return at Elmina Castle in Ghana, and it is unknown how many died on their captive journey.
The visit reminded us that the choices made here centuries ago shaped millions of lives, reminding us that ethical leadership is a responsibility, not just a position. The stories of those who passed through these walls are testaments to the human spirit’s ability to endure and rise. True leadership means acknowledging the past and working toward a better future and that understanding history, no matter how difficult, is essential for shaping thoughtful, compassionate leaders. We can’t change the past, but we can lead in a way that ensures history never repeats itself. Today was more than a visit—it was a lesson in reflection, responsibility, and the kind of leadership that elevates rather than oppresses. “The enduring impact of leadership-both good and bad.”
We stopped at a bazaar at the Cape Coast Castle, where we had the chance to engage with local artisans and experience the vibrant culture of the region. Class X member Kyle’s new shirt was a big hit. Lunch was served at The Lemon Lounge, where we enjoyed another delicious Ghanaian meal and delicious pancakes (crepes) dessert in honor of Hilde’s birthday. It came with song and dance of the staff too. The afternoon was a relaxing time in the swimming pool with valuable reflections on today’s visits.
DAY 10 (February 20, 2025): Elmina
Who knew that bees could be that small, stingless and friendly? Class X visited the International Stingless Bee Center that was opened to learn more about these interesting species. The center was opened in 2005 after its founder made a trip to Brazil. The professor learned about these interesting bees and realized that the climate in Ghana was similar enough to support stingless bees in Ghana. A search of the area yielded 4 species of stingless bees that are now cultivated for the production of propolis, honey and beeswax products supporting the local economy.
The next visit was the Kakum National Park, where we climbed many stairs to get to the starting point of a canopy walk, which was about 40 meters (130 feet) above the forest floor! We crossed 7 suspension bridges attached to 300-year-old trees to challenge ourselves and to see the diversity of the forest! Several Class X members faced some real fears of heights, but the views were absolutely worth it!
We enjoyed a delicious lunch at Mabel’s Table with a beautiful coastal view, because nothing beats good food after a day of adventure. Pushing boundaries, embracing new experiences, and learning along the way—that’s what leadership (and travel) is all about!
DAY 11 (February 21, 2025): Elmina to Accra
Class X started the day at Sanford Health World Clinic in Cape Coast, where that familiar Sanford blue almost made it feel like home! This clinic has many services on a small footprint. This clinic has a clinical laboratory, pharmacy, birthing center, pre- and antenatal clinic and patients’ treatment rooms. The biggest challenge for patients and providers is to get a timely diagnosis. The clinic serves a wide variety of people and collaborates with the local hospitals. Older adults with ailments such as high blood pressure and diabetes were a big part of their services. One key takeaway from the clinic doctor: “The most important leadership philosophy is to lead by example.” Whether in healthcare, business, or community leadership, actions speak louder than words. True leaders set the standard through dedication, integrity, and service. It was a rewarding experience to see a company based in North and South Dakota having such an impact in Ghana.
On our journey back to Accra, we made a photo stop at Fort Amsterdam. This fort, like many others along the Ghanaian coast, holds stories of the past that continue to shape the present. We also received the “Ghanaian massage” on a stretch of the transatlantic African highway where there was road construction, the road was so rough that the vibrations felt like a massage chair. We made a stop at an American style rest stop owned by a Ghanaian who learned to appreciate the American style rest stops on the interstates. Class X also made a stop at a mall to buy some local chocolates and snacks at a supermarket and to eat lunch at a food court. This stop was a powerful reminder that Ghana also has a growing middle and professional class.
An amazing farewell dinner at a Lebanese restaurant, Li Beirut in Accra with so many different flavors from what we had in the days before. Live music added to our celebration as we expressed and shared the gratitude we felt for our tour guides, Yao and Hannan, and our driver, Kofi. We were grateful to share this evening with our hosts, extending our heartfelt thanks for their hospitality and partnership.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” – African Proverb
Thank you to Apstar Tours for setting up an outstanding experience for RLND!
DAY 12 (February 22, 2025): Accra to Amsterdam
On our final day, we heard from Dr. Darkwa of Sanford World Clinic, who shared with us the cultural differences in leadership he has learned from working in Ghana compared to the USA. Ghana uses a very hierarchical style of power in leadership compared to the U.S. and it can be difficult for a Ghanaian to have a supervisor that is younger in age. He stressed the importance of understanding and learning cultural differences to support people working in different cultures, such as the importance of local leaders attending funerals in Ghana and how that has been a very different concept for him to explain to a U.S. based company like Sanford.
Before our departure tonight, RLND Class X took time to reflect on this incredible journey—sharing experiences, insights, and the leadership lessons we will carry forward. We spent time together as a class to discuss how the seminar challenged our assumptions and perspectives, the high points of our visit, what did we learn about the challenges Ghanaian farmers face, what leadership lessons we learned from the trip, and how we will share this information within our communities and organizations when we are home. A consensus of the group was the large discrepancy we saw in wealth in Ghana, but also the kindness, optimism, and excitement for the future and the youth of Ghana. The leadership we encountered from many Ghanaians centered around modeling the way and respecting others. Our time in Ghana was truly life changing.
In the afternoon, several class members took in the Makola Market, to shop for souvenirs, and to connect with local artisans and shopkeepers, purchasing unique Ghanaian crafts to take home as mementos of the trip.
Day 13 (Feb 23): travel from Accra to ND
After our layover in Amsterdam, Class X flew back to North Dakota, bringing with us a wealth of knowledge, memories, and friendships that will last a lifetime. The seminar provided us with an invaluable opportunity to explore Ghana’s history, culture, and leadership, and we returned to North Dakota with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the global community. The seminar in Ghana was a profound learning experience that not only deepened our understanding of agriculture, culture, and leadership in Ghana but also highlighted the importance of global connections and cultural exchange.
