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Faculty for the Future
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A Vision Realized: Chad School Project Update
Students in the new Koumra Give and Learn School
The original school before beginning construction
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Field Specialist Beyamra Ounoumdon has realized his vision to build a school in Koumra.
We previously reported on a project initiated in 2003 by Field Specialist Beyamra Ounoumdon and supported by the Schlumberger Chad Country Manager to build a primary school in Ounoumdon's hometown of Koumra, Chad. Schlumberger Chad committed $10,000 USD to the project and the Schlumberger Foundation then matched the funds bringing the total to $25,000.
The additional financial support enabled a new concrete block primary school to be built in 2006 and helped equip the classrooms with desks, chairs and educational materials. Ounoumdon was then asked to provide a three-year plan in order to bring more stability to the development of the school. This resulted in a joint commitment of USD 150,000 for three years.
In 2008, further improvements were made to the school infrastructure including the construction of two additional school buildings with three classrooms as well as an office, installation of solar panels, lighting of the classrooms and installation of taps with drinking water. More than 1,250 young people are enrolled at the Koumra primary and secondary school and are achieving good examination results. In total there are now four school buildings with 12 classrooms.
Since the primary school's completion, examination results have improved and increasing numbers of students are applying to join. Teachers' salaries have been guaranteed, which ensures continuity and high standards among the staff. All children wanting to attend are able to. Where parents are unable to pay, fees are waived in return for contributions of materials needed to run the school. And the fabric of the new school means that long-term closures are no longer necessary. "It was terrible to see how idle and isolated the children become during the rainy season," says Ounoumdon.
Ounoumdon's vision continues to grow. He has already formed a school football team, for which he has provided uniforms and footballs. Future improvements planned include the construction of a library, a laboratory, additional desks, and facilities for football, basketball, and volleyball. "I want these schools to be at the center of Koumra's community. Now that we have robust schools in place, we can focus on developing academic areas and athletics. I want these kids to do great things!"
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