THERE were smiles all round as Solihull Sixth Form College hit the £100,000 milestone in its Gambia project.
Since its launch in 2013 hundreds of students have helped raise £103,780 to support a school and nursery in Serrakunda, the country’s largest town.
This year students raised more than £11,780 for the project.
Back in February, 29 learners signed up for this volunteering initiative and began fundraising for Abuko Nursery and Lower Basic School.
Each student aimed to raise £400, and many exceeded this target through a variety of creative events.
Their efforts culminated in the 10th week-long visit to The Gambia in mid-November, where they saw first-hand how their contributions are improving education and life chances for the children at Abuko.
During their stay, the students spent every morning at the school, teaching children aged four to six in small groups.
To overcome language barriers, they focused on active and visual activities such as singing, crafts, word and picture matching, and plenty of outdoor games.
Student Christopher Hill, said: “I loved the whole experience.
“Being able to experience the culture of The Gambia, whilst also knowing that you were really benefitting the children in the school was incredible.
“The locals were so friendly. They all wanted to speak to you and many were grateful and extremely interested in what we were doing.”
Fellow student Maya Phillips-Patel added: “I enjoyed teaching at the school and I loved seeing the joy we brought to the community.
“I enjoyed seeing how the kids loved the lessons I taught them and their smiles when seeing what they had created.
“I have developed a deeper appreciation for the small things, because in The Gambia something like a smile, wave or small conversation made people’s day.
“This made me realise I should not not take things for granted.”
Solihull Sixth Form College embarked on this venture in 2013 and today the nursery school boasts eight classrooms and serves nearly 300 children.
In 2021, the nursery was officially handed over to the Gambian Education Department, ensuring its sustainability.
This year’s trip saw a new dining hall open up, thanks to funds raised by last year’s team of students.
Vice Principal Janice Hamilton said: “It has been a priviledge to be part of the Team Gambia project for the last 12 years.
“I’m proud of the difference we’re making for the children, and equally proud of the growth I see in our young people.
“I saw that demonstrated again with this year’s group of students, who gained cultural awareness, whilst developing teamwork and leadership skills. Our students also delivered vital resources, including computers, medical supplies, sports kits, reading glasses, and stationery.
“This year’s fundraising has been phenomenal and added to the money raised in the previous nine years, it has made a tangible difference to the facilities at the school.
“We also had the opportunity to meet ten year old Sulyman Bah, who we met last year, when he was gravely ill and in need of surgery.
“Last year’s students paid for Sulyman to get care from a local charity to build up his strength to the point where he could have that surgery and it was wonderful to see him thriving this year.”
Beyond their work at the school, students explored Gambian culture and environment, visiting the Lamin mangroves, Bijalo monkey sanctuary, the Arch museum in Banjul and the Fajara War Cemetery.
