By Sher Betz | Co-founder Les Amis de Hampate Ba
In Niamey, the capital of Niger, many children grow up in families where poverty is not an abstract concept but a daily reality. Very often, In these homes, parents never attended school and do not speak French, the official language required at school. For these children, the path to education and independence seems full of insurmountable obstacles.
It is in this context that our non-profit organisation works, with a simple yet ambitious goal, to provide children from underprivileged backgrounds with access to quality education, help them reach their full potential, and, ultimately, break the poverty cycle. But behind this goal lies meticulous and passionate work, because providing education is not just about paying school fees.
Selecting Children and Understanding Their Needs
Each year, we select students of Middle School age to start Secondary studies at CSP Hampaté Bâ. We not only assess their academic level but also examine their family situation, only those children whose parents cannot afford quality education are chosen. This careful selection ensures that our support reaches those who need it most.
But choosing the right students is only the first step and we must also give them the means to truly succeed in school. In almost every case, parents cannot help their children with homework, since they are illiterate. That’s why our organization funds teachers who provide after-school support. These teachers ensure that each child understands lessons, helps them complete assignments, and compensates for the lack of support at home.
Take, for example, Hawa, a 12-year-old student. Before our intervention, she struggled with math and French. Her parents, although highly motivated, were unable to assist her. Thanks to after-school support, Hawa was able to understand her lessons, catch up on her studies, and regain confidence. Today, she actively participates in class and dreams of becoming an engineer.
Technology, an Essential Skill
Beyond traditional lessons, it is crucial to prepare these children for a world where technology plays a central role. Knowing how to use a computer, create and manage files, write documents, or prepare presentations is not optional, it is essential for higher education and professional success.
To introduce students to these tools, we implemented an innovative project this year with the donation of tablets to the Secondary School attended by our students. These tablets, generously provided by a company specializing in educational software development, allow students to access interactive learning programs, conduct online research, and assess their knowledge through exercises and tests.
These tablets are more than just educational tools as they help children understand digital logic. They give students confidence and independence with technology, which will be a valuable advantage when they use computers in higher education, internships, or future jobs.
Real-Life Impact
Thanks to these tablets, we have seen remarkable changes. Hadiza, a 13-year-old student, struggled with science. With the tablet-based programs, she was able to practice at her own pace and deepen her understanding. Today, she comprehends scientific concepts better and actively participates in classroom experiments. These improvements show that, even in underprivileged environments, education combined with the right tools can transform a child’s life.
The tablet project also highlights the importance of partnerships and generosity. Without the donation from this company, these children would not have had access to these essential tools. Their support demonstrates that even in challenging contexts, solidarity can create tangible and lasting opportunities.
The Crucial Role of Donors
Every scholarship, every funded teacher, and every donated tablet represents the generosity of our donors. Your support allows children who would otherwise have no access to education to dream, learn, and build their future. These contributions are not merely financial, they are carriers of hope and real change.
Imagine these children in a few years: graduates, independent, able to support themselves, and contributing to society. Each donation makes this transformation possible. It enables children to believe in themselves and in a future they never thought possible.
A Long-Term Vision
Our goal is clear, not just to provide schooling, but to guide children toward success and independence. Every project, initiative, and tool contributes to building a future where every student can reach their full potential.
We know the journey is long and full of challenges. But the progress we already see, children more confident, students performing better, young people mastering digital tools, proves that education is the most powerful lever to transform lives.
Gratitude and Call for Support
To all the companies and individuals who support our work, thank you. Your generosity brings concrete projects to life and changes the trajectories of children in Niamey. Because of you, Amina can dream of engineering, Hadiza explores science with confidence, and other children discover the joy of learning and being supported.
Together, we show that education can be a tool for social transformation, even in the most challenging contexts. Every step forward that these children take reflects your commitment and trust.
We will continue working to expand our reach, improve our support, and allow more children to benefit from comprehensive and adapted education. With you by our side, we provide not only access to learning but the real opportunity to build a better future.
Thank you for believing with us that education is a driver of change, and that, thanks to your support, every child can dream, learn, and succeed.
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