2023 Trip to Liberia - Day 6
Today was a very special day as we spent the morning visiting each classroom and handing out the gift bags that we brought for the kids. We also presented the teachers with pens that were labeled with “The Light of the World Academy”. Pastor Sylvester said that the pens with the school’s name on them were very special as this isn’t something you see very often in Africa. As we entered each classroom the children stood up and greeted:
They were very thankful for the small gifts we gave them. They were very polite about getting their gifts and they did not open the gift bags to explore what was inside but rather put them aside or in their backpacks for later.
After handing out the gifts to all the classes we went to meet with Pastor Sylvester to review some final decisions regarding finishing the high school and church building along with what funding remained to complete this project. The target is to complete this building by May. The plan is to be ready to install the roof by this weekend and then start finishing the inside of the building.
After meeting with Pastor Sylvester, we went and got a demonstration of Smart Box which provides 20 computers and content for the student’s learning. It is amazing technology and the amount of information that is provided through this technology is astounding. This school is the only school in the county and one of only a handful in Liberia to have this technology available to their students. What a great learning tool for these kids. It also allows them to have hands on computer experience to better prepare them for what lies ahead.
We packed up and headed back to the Hotel. Tomorrow evening, we will begin our long journey home. We leave this place with a great sense of admiration and respect for the Liberian people. They are so full of joy and optimism for their county. The children are full of energy and enthusiasm to learn. The people that we have met here this week are working so hard to make Liberia a better place for all. They need our prayers and support in any way possible.
When we return home, our list is significant for next steps for this community and school. It includes:
Completing the High School and Church building
Setting up a radio studio at the school so they can broadcast programming over VOX Radio
Begin working on establishing a medical clinic for the community
Providing recreational facilities and equipment for the kids of the community
Provide additional scholarships so more students can attend this wonderful school
We are confident that by working together we can accomplish the above and more over the coming years to make Liberia a better place for all.
Jeff