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Why Education? |
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Currently in The Gambia, 50% of the population is 15 years old and under. In fact, only 40% of the population can read and write. There is a desperate need for educational assistance in The Gambia.
The vast majority of schools are in the cities. On the north side of the Gambia River, there is an area called the North Bank. In this area dwell thousands of villagers whose lives consist of agricultural farming. Most families are large in numbers and to assist in the planting and harvesting, which has resulted in an inability to send children to the cities for an education.
There are however, a handfull of government and private schools on the North Bank, but hardly enough to meet the growing youth population and educational needs.
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What are we doing? |
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In September 2004, Education for West Africa launched its first international multicultural school in a small village called Memmeh. Seventeen students, ages 4-7, were enrolled. Five days a week, the students attend school where trained teachers teach them English, healthcare, social studies and science. The students also enjoy a variety of fun activities, arts and crafts throughout the day.
Each student is provided with a uniform, a nutritious lunch and a toothbrush to brush their teeth. The educational approach to the school is a holistic method of teaching. The students’ creativity is developed as well as their reading and writing skills.
For the preschool, ages 4-7, there are three grades before they begin kindergarten. This helps to ensure they have a solid foundation of spoken English. Each teacher focuses on healthcare and nutrition daily, as well as looking after the wellbeing of each student. Education for West Africa is fully committed to providing the best environment and education available to the children of The Gambia.
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What is our Mission & Vision? |
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Education for West Africa is for the establishment of international multicultural schools in the Gambia, West Africa to include grades K-12 by subsidizing the students’ tuition and school operational costs.
Education for West Africa is a non-profit corporation that was established to assist the need for education in The Gambia.
Education for West Africa is committed to serving the educational need in The Gambia in partnership with local officials and international support. There is a new generation of scientists, doctors and teachers waiting to learn. Join us!
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What are our Goals? |
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Education for West Africa’s goal is to establish 10 international multicultural schools in West Africa and to expand one grade level each year until grade 12 is reached.
Education for West Africa is in the process of expanding its current school facility to accommodate more students and to better serve the growing interest of many villages.
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