EducAid is celebrating 30 years of transforming lives through education this year.
That’s three decades of change and inspiring stories; some of which we will be highlighting as we look at key moments in our history. These voices in EducAid’s journey highlight the power of education to change lives and build brighter futures… and are our real impact.
Hear some of these stories from EducAid staff and students below:
“The time that Augustine called me to say he had graduated as a Dr…. Ramatu calling me to say she was being recognised as one of the top most influential women…. Realising that all our schools and programmes are being run by EducAidians! So many stories.” Miriam, EducAid’s Country Director
“My arrival to Maronka in the middle of the night on my first trip... The goats joining classes when those were in the unfinished Rolal building and we couldn’t keep them out. And all the graduation photos from the 35 people who now have a degree thanks to the BAM course.” Vero, EducAid Trustee
“The greatest achievement in EducAid’s 30-year story is our growth in transforming from just running schools to engaging in both running schools and implementing school improvement projects that can impact many Sierra Leoneans. This has helped us work clearly towards our vision and provide more opportunities through EducAid.” – Kabiru, EducAid Programme Coordinator
“My favorite EducAid memory is my first day in the institution as a pupil who fell out of school due to a lack of support and opportunity since then I gained a vote of confidence that my dream is still alive. That day, 3.06. 2013 is a memory I’m always taking note of.” Manso, EducAid Teacher
“My favorite EducAid memory is after I sat to my WASSCE (end of high school examinations). I had never thought of reaching such a level due to many challenges. Accomplishing such achievement is a dream come true. I will never forget the day I received my result and noticed that I got requirement to university. I will always be thankful to EducAid for at anytime I reflect my memory on that.” Foday, EducAid Teacher
“One of my fondest memories with EducAid dates back to September 2004, the day I first stepped into the classroom. As the seventh child among twenty siblings with two stepmothers, born into a family sustained by my father’s salary as a village school headteacher, the prospect of accessing secondary education seemed like an elusive dream. However, EducAid transformed this dream into reality.
I vividly remember the overwhelming sense of excitement and gratitude that enveloped me as I walked through the school gates. It was a momentous occasion, not just for me but for my entire family, EducAid offered hope and opportunity where there was once uncertainty.
The warmth and dedication of the EducAid staff left a lasting impression on me. Despite the challenges they faced, they approached their work with unwavering commitment and compassion. Their belief in the transformative power of education ignited a spark within me, inspiring me to strive for excellence and pursue my aspirations with zeal.
Through the nurturing environment provided by EducAid, I not only gained invaluable academic knowledge but also developed essential life skills and forged lifelong friendships. The sense of belonging and support fostered within the EducAid community empowered me to overcome obstacles and seize every opportunity that came my way.
Looking back, I am deeply grateful for the pivotal role EducAid played in shaping my journey. It was more than just a school; it was a beacon of hope, a catalyst for change, and a symbol of resilience. My favorite EducAid memory embodies the transformative power of education and serves as a testament to the extraordinary impact it can have on individuals and communities alike.” – Ibrahim, EducAid Alumni and President of EducAid Alumni Network
