Strong schools begin with empowered teachers. When educators have the skills and confidence to use technology effectively, they can create more engaging learning experiences and better prepare their students for the future.

Thanks in part to your generous support, Develop Africa Sierra Leone recently partnered with FAWE School for Girls to provide a two-day basic computer training program for teachers at the school's computer lab.

Do you ever wonder if your donations are really making a difference?

The answer is a resounding YES.

Meet Mattia.

Sixteen years ago, a young girl named Isata spent her days helping her mother sell charcoal to support their family. School was not an option. Her mother, a hardworking single parent, simply could not afford the cost of education.

In 2010, everything changed.

We are proud to celebrate the incredible achievement of Isata K., who successfully completed her cosmetology (hairdressing) training and recently graduated. Her journey is one of resilience, determination, and the courage to pursue a new path when life didn’t go as planned.

Isata originally hoped to continue her education at the university level. After several attempts to pass the WASSCE exam, she made a bold and life-changing decision—to pursue vocational training instead. That choice became the foundation for a new future.

Recently, 48 students successfully graduated from our Microsoft Office Computer Training Program—an important milestone that is opening doors to future academic and caree

Part two of our impact stories highlights more voices from Develop Africa beneficiaries—students who are not only gaining an education but also building confidence, communication skills, and character.

Mattia, a civil engineering student and 10-year beneficiary, reflects on what being part of Develop Africa has meant to him. Through consistent sponsorship—from primary school through university—he was able to pursue the education he once only dreamed about. Tuition fees were covered, school needs were met, and his academic journey remained uninterrupted.

But the support went beyond finances.

Background:
Sierra Leone faces challenges in providing practical STEM education due to limited resources, especially in science labs. To address this, DEXT Technology Limited, in partnership with Develop Africa and donors, organized a five-day training program at DEXT headquarters in Kumasi, Ghana. The training aimed to equip Sierra Leonean STEM teachers with practical knowledge of using DEXT Science Kits to enhance science education in schools.

Objectives:

The Karene District Education Office conducted a three-day training workshop from May 8-10, 2024, at Kamawonie Pre School, Sella Limba Chiefdom, Karene District. This training targeted preschool educators, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to engage young children (ages 3-5) in play-based learning using locally available, low-cost resources. This training was made possible by the generous support of Ubuntu For Humanity.

Through the generous support of donors, Develop Africa has been instrumental in providing critical resources and opportunities to empower women in Sierra Leone. One such individual whose life has been positively impacted is Salamatu, a single-parent mother and proud beneficiary of Develop Africa's programs. Salamatu's journey is a testament to the power of education and support in empowering women to overcome barriers and pursue their dreams.