February update from Ibrahima

Greetings from Koro,

The Year 2016 has started with a priceless visit from Dr. Brandon to Grace Private School in Koro, Mali, West Africa. After his visit I was surprised by the number of good questions kids were asking. I wish they had time to ask directly to him all of those questions.

For many students in this locality it was a very first experience to be that near to a white man, for there have been no “Toubab” (white people) for a long time in Koro. Tourists rarely come to visit the famous Dogon Masks anymore due to terrorist threats in the country. It is then easily understandable that the kids were very awed and excited to talk to Brandon Pomeroy, our hero at Grace School, as he braves threats and uncomfortable travel condition to visit us.

The students did not only see the group of supporters through him, they also have been treated against worms, got toothbrushes (that some students keep bringing to school in their bags), at the same time they could draw on paper he provided. It was a fun time for all the students. They also heard an exhortation to work hard at school and to become examples of success for others. Through question and answer he demonstrated to them the importance of education especially a Christian one and said that they can succeed no matter where they are from, even by this old traditional way in which they learn. There couldn’t be a better way to share the idea and to be encouraged.

We are also thankful for Brandon’s meeting with all the teachers, it was a delightful meeting and teachers were encouraged and valued. I can clearly see their renewed devotion.

The elementary school students have done their first exam in school life; they all did well.

We had the teacher meeting about the first term exam at the end of the month.
We also had an encouraging meeting with the parents and teachers so that we can talk about the kids- their anxiety, worries and unease. It was a heart opened talk. I still have big concern about some of our students (especially the ones that have joined us this year) who are tempting the others in their very bad behaviors. Please pray that those kids change. From now many students will have to take extra classes to catch up with their lessons.
 
The class building has started with sand ordering and laying cement bricks. We have almost enough cement bricks to build the three classrooms. For now we have water in the well and can still use it for the building project. Praise the Lord for that.

​All this has been only possible because of your support and your partnership. We therefore are grateful and thankful to you. We acknowledge your input.
 
May God bless you,
Ibrahima