The Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusive tourism by organising an educational excursion for 40 students of the Tetteh Ocloo State School for the Deaf in Adjei Kojo, Ashaiman.
The community outreach initiative, held last Friday, took the students on a guided tour of some of Ghana’s most iconic historical landmarks, including the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Independence Square and Osu Castle.
The excursion was designed not only to expose the students to the country’s rich history and cultural heritage but also to demonstrate that tourism should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of disability.
Leading the initiative was the President of TOUGHA, Yvonne Donkor, who described the programme as part of the union’s broader vision of ensuring that no one is excluded from experiencing Ghana’s tourism attractions.
“Tourism is about connecting people with history, culture and identity, and every Ghanaian deserves the opportunity to enjoy these experiences,” she said.
She noted that seeing the excitement and curiosity on the faces of the students throughout the tour was a powerful reminder of why accessibility and inclusion must remain central to the country’s tourism development agenda.
“We wanted these young learners to experience firsthand the stories behind some of Ghana’s most important national monuments. Visiting places like the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Independence Square and Osu Castle allows them to better appreciate our nation’s journey while creating memories that will stay with them for years to come,” Ms. Donkor added.
She expressed appreciation to the management of the Tetteh Ocloo State School for the Deaf for their collaboration and support throughout the excursion.
“Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the Headmaster and the dedicated teaching staff for ensuring the welfare of the students and working closely with us to make the trip a success. We are equally grateful to all TOUGHA executives and members whose generosity and commitment made this initiative possible. Together, we are helping to build a tourism industry that truly leaves no one behind.”
The Headmaster of the school, Isaac Arthur, described the initiative as a life-changing experience for the students, revealing that it was the school’s first educational excursion in many years.
“We are very, very grateful to TOUGHA for taking about 40 of our deaf learners on this educational trip. We have been here for a very long time, but, if I am not mistaken, this is the first educational trip we have embarked upon, and we truly appreciate it,” he said.
According to him, the students gained valuable knowledge that complemented what they had been learning in the classroom.
“They have learned so much today. They heard more about Kwame Nkrumah, former Presidents Jerry John Rawlings and John Atta Mills, Independence Square and many other important aspects of our country’s history. We are sincerely grateful to TOUGHA for investing in our learners.”
Mr. Arthur also appealed to other organizations to emulate TOUGHA’s example by supporting educational excursions for students with disabilities.
“Our doors are always open. We welcome individuals and organizations who wish to partner with us to help our learners explore Ghana and broaden their understanding of the country. We thank TOUGHA and pray that God richly blesses them for what they have done.”
The outreach forms part of TOUGHA’s efforts to encourage responsible and inclusive tourism while ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind in accessing Ghana’s cultural, historical and educational attractions.
