South-African Preschool Fundraiser

Having spent the summer in South Africa working for Good Governance Africa, I was given the opportunity to visit a rural preschool in Mbizana; the school had enrolled approximately 65 young girls and boys between 2 and 4 years of age. At the time of my visit GGA was in the midst of formally training instructors in hopes of helping the preschool better the quality of the education provided, and achieve the status of Montessori school. That said, the school still lacked quite a bit of basic infrasctructure to ensure the health and well-being of the little ones. They had no books, no playground or toys and sadly enough, no access to washrooms. These small children would have to walk a far distance in order to use a local community member's washroom. Many were poorly dressed for the cold weather and strong winds, and almost all of them appeared to be somewhat sick. Moreover, their food rations were limited and incredibly poor in terms of nutritional value (e.g. maizemeal). 

Even the smallest donations can make a major impact on these children's lives. A sandbox provides not only a play area, but also a space for them to practice creativity and basic kinesthetic skills (e.g. letter tracing). Little things like books and soccer balls could replace their current activities of playing in dirt, and with pieces of concrete. Better nutrition helps not only with focus and learning, but also may be essential for some children who may not have sufficient resources at home. Having spoken to the principle of the local elementary school, it can be said that many of the children are unprepared for the academic task that faces them after preschool. 

It does not need to be said that early childhood education is an essential part of human development, and the foundation for future success. In a partnership with Good Governance Africa, a registered non-profit organization (2012), I am hoping to raise money in hopes of providing these children with some of the basic resources they need in order to achieve personal and academic success in their futures. This includes but is not limited to: providing resources for books, school supplies, toys and most importantly an accessible washroom. 

I do plan to return to South Africa next summer so I am more than happy to keep you updated with regards to how the money is being utilized. 

Thank you for your kind heart, and your time. 

Abby Brown
Student at the Saint-Paul's University in Conflict Studies. Please take the time to check out Good Governance Africa and their various efforts to better life for all South African citizens: