Educate the Future Leaders of Sierra Leone

Recently,  an engaging STEM workshop was held for secondary school students at Smart Start Academy. The lesson focused on the First Law of Thermodynamics—the scientific principle that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form into another.

Instead of simply reading about this concept in a textbook, students learned by doing.

Working together in small groups, students conducted an experiment demonstrating how solar energy can be converted into heat energy. Their biology teacher guided them through each step, explaining concepts such as reflection, refraction, and energy conversion while encouraging students to observe the scientific principles unfolding before them.

As the class worked through the experiment, the teacher explained how sunlight strikes the white carbon surface, reflects, and transfers energy to the black carbon, which absorbs more heat. Students were able to witness this process firsthand, connecting classroom theory with real-world observation.

The excitement in the classroom was evident as students eagerly assembled the materials, made observations, asked questions, and discussed what they were seeing. The hands-on experience transformed an abstract scientific principle into something they could see, test, and understand.

Thank you for helping to make opportunities like this possible. Your generosity is helping students gain practical skills, develop a passion for learning, and prepare to become the scientists, engineers, healthcare professionals, teachers, and leaders who will help build a brighter future for Sierra Leone.

Together, we are investing in future leaders—one inspiring classroom experience at a time.

With gratitude,

Amy & The Develop Africa Team

Links:

• Empower Future Leaders in Sierra Leone with Education
• STEM Workshop Video

One of our sponsored students, Foday, recently completed a six-month Microsoft Office training program at the Develop Africa Computer Lab in Sierra Leone.

As a high school student, Foday understood that computer skills would be essential for his future. Determined to prepare for college and the workforce, he dedicated himself to learning Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other essential computer applications used in schools, businesses, and organizations around the world.

Today, digital literacy is more important than ever. These skills will help Foday complete school assignments, conduct research, create presentations, analyze information, and communicate effectively. They also provide a strong foundation for higher education and future employment opportunities.

Through your support, students are gaining the knowledge and confidence they need to pursue brighter futures and become tomorrow's leaders in their communities.

Thank you for investing in students like Foday and helping equip the next generation with the skills they need to succeed.

Save the Date: GlobalGiving Bonus Day

Mark your calendars! GlobalGiving's July Bonus Day begins Wednesday, July 15, at 10:00 a.m. EDT and ends Thursday, July 16, at 10:00 a.m. EDT.

During this 24-hour campaign, donations of $100 or more will help unlock matching support from GlobalGiving's $150,000 matching contribution. The more support we receive, the more matching funds we can unlock to provide educational opportunities for students like Foday.

Thank you for helping us empower future leaders through education and technology!

With heartfelt gratitude,
Amy and the Develop Africa Team
GlobalGiving@developafrica.org

Links:

• Empower Future Leaders in Sierra Leone with Education