The village came together for one last time this evening to celebrate in song, music and dancing. The crowd gathered outside the Maltiti school, which could not have been a better setting considering our time spent teaching and painting the school this past week.
Our spirits were high and the encouragement from the villagers gave us the energy to perform after our week of training. Each of us received a traditional performing costume that gave our drumming and dancing skills a little more spice. Our lessons not only taught us a routine to perform for friends and family, but gave us insight into the heart and soul that music brings to Ghanaians. Our teachers were supportive through every drum beat we could not find or dance move that our bodies did not want to make at first. Their dedication as a group inspired us to embrace the African-cultural dance.
Our evening ended with an honorary gift presented by Fredrick and the Youth Chief. Professor Summers was presented with a traditional Dagomba Chief tribal hat and robe along with a warm thank you from our service and commitment to the community. Following the presentation, each student received Dagomba robes, which were all slightly different and beautifully handcrafted. This kind gesture was unexpected and very generous.
The villagers, children, drummers and dancers have taught our group about the amazing culture Ghana celebrates together. Being included on a daily basis in the Tamale culture has given us an enriching experience to our trip. We are forever grateful for the warmth and kindness that the people of Ghana have showed us.
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