The initiative was undertaken with funding from Jiki Foundation of The Netherlands targeting the Upper Basic students who were taught lessons in core subjects. According to the organisers, this initiative is aimed, among other things to fulfill their “desire for molding the younger generation to build a foundation for sustainable socio-economic development of the society through the spirit of tolerance and peace building”.
In her keynote address on behalf of Afnow coordinator, Binta Jammeh Barrow advised the students: “You have to utilise the knowledge gained from the classes in order to make a difference in your educational pursuits. You have a responsibility to make this project a continuous process. I thank the teachers who gave their best to the students .They are true servants of humanity and their legacy shall forever be cherished and recorded in history. We have nothing to pay you but God Almighty shall pay you for your efforts.
On his part, the study coordinator Mr. Lamin Jatta expressed delight and gratitude for the success of the programme. He explained: “The primary target was initially the orphans and needy children under the care of Afnow but after consultation with the principal of Gunjur Upper Basic School they opened their doors for all interested students despite status, origin or race. As this year marks the beginning of this summer classes organised by Afnow, we are overwhelmed by the turn-out of the students and therefore urged you to keep up the spirit. I take this opportunity to urge the students to endeavor in making history by producing aggregate six for the first time in the school’s 44- year history”.
Rendering a brief history of the foundation, the program officer Abdoulie D. Touray said Afnow was registered as a charitable foundation in 2003 and based in Gunjur, Kombo South District.
“Our primary aim is to assist orphans, needy and widows. As a democratic, non-partisan and gender-sensitive foundation, we create awareness on the plight of the orphans, needy and widows and also work to improve their prospects. We offer special guidance and counseling services for people with psychological distress, malnutrition as well as provision of shelter to enhance health and economic empowerment,” he revealed.
Other speakers include the secretary general of Gunjur Village Development Committee (VDC), Buba Touray and the chairperson of the Parent Teachers Association (PTA) of Gunjur Upper Basic School Sheriffo Sanyang. A total of 53 students were awarded in recognition of their performance in different subject areas.
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