By Omar Bah
Twenty-eight students from Solihull Sixth Form College in the United Kingdom have made significant strides in fundraising for the Abuko Nursery and Lower Basic School, showcasing their commitment to making a positive impact.
During their week in The Gambia, these students dedicated their mornings to teaching children aged four to six, engaging them in various active and visual learning activities. Their efforts included singing, craft projects, word and picture matching, and countless outdoor games that sparked joy and curiosity.
Alice Bristol, one of the participating students, reflected on her experience, stating, “Experiencing the wonderful country of Gambia with my friends was rewarding, not only for us but also in enhancing the children’s education. Witnessing their pure happiness was the highlight of my day and made me appreciate my life back home. I was particularly struck by the poverty I saw firsthand.”
Louka Bramwell, another student, shared, “I found immense joy in visiting the markets, especially in Serekunda, which allowed me to connect with the local culture and community. What surprised me most was the warmth and positivity of the people, even amidst their challenges. The sense of community among the Gambian people was truly inspiring.”
This initiative began with Hamstead Hall School in Handsworth Wood in 2013 and has now become a collaborative effort with Solihull Sixth Form College. The nursery school, consisting of eight classrooms, benefits nearly 300 children.
The school was officially handed over to the Gambian Education Department in 2021, ensuring its long-term sustainability and positive impact on the community.
This trip marked the ninth visit to Africa as part of the College’s Team Gambia project, which has raised over £92,000 since its inception.
In addition to their work at the school, the students took the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and environment. Their experiences included visits to the mangroves in Lamin and the Bijilo monkey sanctuary, engaging with vendors at the Serekunda fish and textiles market, and touring the National Assembly building in Banjul.
Vice Principal Janice Hamilton praised the initiative: “Each year, it’s a pleasure to witness Team Gambia engage in this meaningful journey. I am immensely proud of the difference we are making in the lives of these children, and I treasure the growth and learning experiences our young people gain throughout the trip. They contribute to the community, develop essential teamwork and leadership skills, and gain confidence in the process.
“Our students have brought numerous resources to the school over the years, including medical supplies, sports kits, reading glasses, and stationery, thanks to the generous support of groups like the Kitson Fund, Shirley Lions, and the OCR examination board. We are tremendously grateful for their contributions.
“This year’s fundraising efforts were particularly impactful, enabling us to paint and stencil the perimeter wall and construct a new dining area. Plans are also in place to build a shelter to provide relief from the sun. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our students and their families and friends for their unwavering support and dedication. The more than £92,000 we’ve raised since 2013 directly benefits the Abuko Nursery and Lower Basic School and the broader community.”
