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Journal of Undergraduate Research

Keywords

educational gap, humanitarian groups, researchers, Ghanaian people

College

Humanities

Department

English

Abstract

During the summer of 2002 I did quantitative research with the HART organization (Humanitarian Aid Relief Team) in Ghana on the spread of Buruli Ulcer (BU). I found that there were cultural barriers that prevented the Ghanaian people from understanding Western concepts of medicine and receiving needed treatment. I have done further qualitative research this year in order to develop a mutual understanding that will help bridge the cultural and educational gap between foreign humanitarian groups (such as HART) and the Ghanaian people. During our research trip to Ghana we found a high incidence of Buruli Ulcer in the village people of the Amasaman district. We had an education and an outreach team in addition to our research team. However, the cultural and educational barriers between the Ghanaians and us made us much less efficient in giving aid and educating.

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