Transforming Education: A Visit to a Gambian School in Need
During her second trip to Gambia in April, Marianne, a dedicated 7th-grade teacher, had an experience that profoundly impacted her. She and her husband were invited to visit a primary school in Westfoort, Africa, guided by a volunteer from the Smiling Coast Foundation.
A Warm Welcome Amid Stark Realities
Upon their arrival, the couple was warmly welcomed by the children, who sang a heartfelt song for them. However, the joy of the students starkly contrasted with the dire condition of the school. Marianne was shocked to see two buildings completely unusable due to severely damaged roofs. Many desks and chairs were broken, with some children sitting on benches with holes in them. Every classroom, including the teachers’ rooms, was in desperate need of maintenance.
The Resilient Spirit of Gambian Students
Despite the challenging environment, the children remained cheerful and eager to learn. Marianne felt a deep sense of helplessness, having nothing immediate to offer. She decided to take numerous photos, hoping to raise awareness and garner support upon her return to Europe.
A Call for Global Support
Moved by the experience, Marianne reached out to the Smiling Coast Foundation to explore ways to help these deserving children. Aligned with its mission and vision, the foundation quickly launched a campaign aimed at providing financial support to ensure these children can continue their education.
How You Can Help
The campaign not only focuses on funding but also encourages donations of goods. The logistics of shipping items vary by country, and the foundation welcomes inquiries for more information. Ideally, the goal is to repair the school’s roofs, provide proper furniture, and improve the overall learning environment. However, recognizing the vast need, the Smiling Coast Foundation has initially selected 20 children to support.
Tips for Future Travelers
The foundation has also started a blog offering tips and tricks for future travelers to Gambia on how they can contribute during their visit. The Smiling Coast Foundation provides tours for tourists, including visits to various schools, allowing them to witness firsthand the conditions and the impact they can make.
Join the Effort: Make a Difference
Supporting these children and their school through financial contributions is crucial. For more information on how to donate or ship materials, please visit our website. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of these young students.
