With just over 40 students, Morning-Starlight-School is one of the very small schools in Africa’s most populous country, with very high growth rates. In contrast, the public Afikpo Primary School, with its 1,700 students, where we have carried out some renovation activities.
The Morning-Starlight-School has three Nursery classes and six primary school classes. In addition to the school administration, there are nine teachers. Many different subject areas are taught: English, mathematics, computer science, science, social studies, language comprehension, quantitative reasoning, basic agricultural skills, home economics, physical education, cultural studies, creative arts, science, civics, Christian religious studies, music, and dance.
Why do we support this small school?
Some large public schools have a less than ideal reputation. Very basic infrastructure, large numbers of children, and the resulting safety deficiencies are often difficult to manage. What are the advantages of small schools?
- The curriculum is comprehensive and offers children the foundation to discover their talents and abilities, to specialize later, and at the same time develop a holistic understanding of life.
- Due to the low number of students, children with learning disabilities receive special support from their teachers.
- The children feel safe at school, especially thanks to the planned construction of a fence.
- They find a quiet learning environment with a playground and sports field.
- We use whiteboards and markers, while most public schools use painted blackboards and chalk.
- Exam papers are recorded electronically, and parents can review them after the exams and help their children at home. In public schools, everything is written on the blackboard. Therefore, no handouts can be distributed.
There is still considerable need for improvements at the school, especially in infrastructure. We plan to erect a fence around the school grounds with a central entrance gate. The wall of the playground, completed last year, will be plastered and decorated with pictures. A small shop will be built where parents can purchase snacks, drinks, and cookies for their children.
We will use the available resources for the benefit of the children. We thank Pastor Richard Awah, who is providing part of his church for this school and is committed to education in Nigeria.