In just a few days I will depart back to Ghana to build Hope for Ghana’s sixth library and computer lab in the rural village of Abor. Abor-Weme Municipal Assembly Basic School, home to 500 primary and junior high school students, was chosen with the help of Director of Education, Mr. Rafael Kwashie, as we traveled to several schools and communities looking at Ghana’s greatest educational needs. Mr. Kwashie informed me that 0% of this school’s students were able to pass Ghana’s Basic Education Certificate Examination, an examination qualifying students to move from junior high school to senior high school, and in that moment I knew this is where Hope for Ghana’s next library and computer lab needed to be built.
I am most excited to see so many friends in a land that has become home for me. And I am humbled and thrilled to retrace the steps of Hope for Ghana’s earlier projects as I celebrate six years of Hope for Ghana’s mission. It seems long ago when I first built a small library and computer lab at the orphanage that inspired my vision. I will see many of those same orphans as I celebrate the new year with Wisdom, Kingsley, Bizmark and many others. And in the midst of building a new library and computer lab and refueling the previous ones, I will finalize plans for Hope for Ghana’s exciting next project. Working with Member of Parliament, Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, Hope for Ghana plans to begin building its first school in September 2017. This huge undertaking will give primary school children the chance to learn with the dignity of a modern school and all the necessary tools for a proper education.
Bags are almost packed, as I try to fit in all the amazing donations given to me by the generous people in Pittsburgh. Clothes, shoes, bibles and many other surprises fill the almost 200 pounds of luggage heading to West Africa. An inspirational banner made by the children at St. Bruno Catholic Church of South Greensburg is already packed, and 2 original paintings by my wonderful friend and Pittsburgh artist, Cody Sabol, are heading for a new home overseas.
I say goodbye for now, filled with gratitude as I look ahead to 3 adventurous weeks in Ghana. Follow me on Hope for Ghana’s Facebook page for regular updates from Ghana. I look forward to sharing with you many beautiful pictures from a grateful community. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for joining me on this wonderful journey as together we change the educational landscape in Ghana.
With much love,
Steve
