Travelling overseas must be a well-researched and planned decision- Mrs Adu-Kwapong

Mrs Ama Adu-Kwapong, Author of 'Beyond the Greener Pastures,' says travelling overseas must be a well-researched and planned decision by prospective migrants in search of better opportunities.She said the research and planning decision was important given the global economic issues that had afflicted countries around the world, especially Western ones.The Author said this at the launch of the 'Beyond the Greener Pastures' book, which was inspired by the true-life story of Akua and her four old school friends as they respectively shared their stories of life as legal and illegal migrants in the United Kingdom (UK).The pursuit of wider opportunities for higher education, enhanced job prospects, and the quest for a better life influenced their individual decisions to move to the UK.Together, they take us through their stories of love, heartbreak, loss, disappointment, and faith in God and the heart-wrenching circumstances affecting their search for greener pastures beyond the continent of Africa.Twelve years after leaving secondary school in Ghana, Akua and four old school friends meet and share their stories of life as legal and illegal migrants in London.She said individuals who intend to travel overseas must research to unearth how to navigate the challenges presented by migration.Mrs Adu-Kwapong said the research and planning decisions to travel overseas must include having the necessary contingency plans on how to survive abroad.This measure, she noted, would prevent any unforeseen circumstances that could threaten an individual's stay abroad.She recommended that potential migrants evaluate their travel plans, particularly the one-way ticket, which denied migrants the ability to return to their home countries after their visas expired, as many of these migrants frequently live with regrets.According to the author, the book 'Beyond the Greener Pastures' was based on migrants' actual experiences in the UK, giving prospective migrants insight into their expectations of going and living overseas, as well as the obstacles that come with it.She urged African leaders to pursue initiatives that would promote economic progress by creating economic and other opportunities for the continent's youth to reduce migration.Dr Lucy Agyapong, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Academic City University, in her review of the book, said it was an opportune time due to a sudden spike in interest in furthering one's education abroad in Ghana.She recommended the book to students who intend to further their studies abroad, adding that her outfit would incorporate the book into some courses at the university.The book is ideal for readers who appreciate heartfelt stories that offer a deeper understanding of the bonds that shape our lives.It is a perfect companion for anyone seeking inspiration and a reflective look at the power of personal relationships.Source: Ghana News Agency