Visa Application
Official letters of support will be sent in advance to all those who need to apply for a visa.
What to Take with You
Malaria prevention medication and mosquito repellent. At sundown every day (about 5pm), apply your mosquito repellent if you plan to be outdoors or in hallways. Always keep your door closed to avoid mosquitoes entering your room. Keep well hydrated, especially when in the sun. Drink bottled water only (not from tap or plastic sachets).
Money
ATM’s are common for cash withdrawals. You may also exchange foreign currency easily at the many Forex Bureaus in the city. Credit cards are accepted by some vendors.
Transportation
To get into town from the University of Ghana campus, intra-city buses called “tro-tro” or local mini-buses as well as taxis are widely available both within the campus and at the gates of the university. You may also order an Uber.
Medical Care
The newly built University Medical Centre is located near Yiri Lodge on the university campus.
Convenience Shops and Pharmacies
Several convenience shops are located on the Legon campus and surrounding areas. These include general grocery stores, card and gift shops, bookshops, pharmacies and hair salons / barber shops. Some salespoints are All Needs Store, The Night Market next to the All Needs Store (fruits, vegetables, etc. are sold here), Legon Shell Shop (South Legon), the Legon Bookshop (by the library), The Legon Bookshop (at the Jones-Quartey Building near the main gate). Several pharmacies are located on the university campus. Examples are Silver Pills Pharmacy (Volta Hall), Pfago Pharmacy (Legon Hall Annex B).
Security and Health Precautions
Ghana is generally a safe place to be. However, it is advisable to take basic precautions.
- If possible, always lock your handbags/baggage. If the item has a shoulder strap, wear the strap across your body.
- Do not wear or carry expensive items, including expensive luggage. Do not wear attractive jewelry.
- Be aware of pickpockets, as they tend to prey on people who look lost or unfamiliar with their surroundings. Do not put valuables in the exterior pockets of your pants, your backpacks, or in bags that are open at the top.
- Beware of traffic; drivers in Ghana sometimes do not wait for pedestrians; they expect pedestrians to give way all the time. Avoid walking too close to streets or buildings. Walk against the flow of traffic so oncoming vehicles can be observed.