By: Fatoumatta krubally
Action Aid-The Gambia on Sunday organized a significant graduation ceremony in Upper Nuimi in recognition of the hard work and dedication of 50 sponsored children.
This event marked the third graduation of its kind and highlighted the impact of child sponsorship on the lives of these students, many of whom have faced considerable challenges in their pursuit of education.
Alagie Camara, Child Sponsorship Manager for Action Aid Gambia, emphasized the importance of the gathering, stating, “I was a sponsored child and it is through Action Aid that I am standing here today.”
He further elaborated on the transformative power of child sponsorship, noting, “Child sponsorship breaks barriers and brings equality among families.”
Mr. Darboe reminded the graduates that this milestone is not just about academic achievement but also about their future responsibilities. He urged them to avoid paths such as irregular migration and drug peddling, instead encouraging them to become responsible youth and positive contributors to society.
The graduation ceremony also included a two-day training program focused on career guidance and counseling, a first for the organization. This initiative was designed to equip the graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the job market successfully. As many of these students are transitioning out of school, the training aimed to prepare them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Saikou Darboe, the LRP manager for Action Aid, emphasized that they operate on a rights-based approach to development, collaborating with partners on the ground, particularly ecozones, to support students in their sponsorship schemes. He mentioned, “The main fund of Action Aid is for those sponsored students,” highlighting the commitment to providing essential educational materials like books, bags, and learning supplies for 13 years. Darboe noted that even with these contributions, the students still engage actively, saying, “They said, why not congratulate them and thank them for what they have done,” which led to the awarding of certificates during the graduation ceremony.
Aisha Saidykhan, a participant in the program, shared her thoughts on the profound impact Action Aid has had on the lives of thousands of sponsored children in Upper Nuimi.
“It has been a challenge for parents to provide learning materials for their children,” she stated, highlighting the economic difficulties faced by many families in the region.
“Action Aid went further to help vulnerable farmers by providing farming tools, small ruminant products, poultry production, and capacity building to improve their way of living.”
The high rate of poverty in Upper Nuimi has made it difficult for many parents to afford educational materials. However, Aisha noted that “through the intervention of Action Aid, learning became easier for the people of Nuimi,” emphasizing the organization’s commitment to fostering educational opportunities and improving livelihoods.
With over 3,000 children benefiting from child sponsorship in Upper Nuimi alone, Action Aid continues to play a crucial role in community engagement and national activities. The graduation ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of the students but also served as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to support education and sustainable development in the region. As these young graduates embark on their next chapter, they carry with them the hope and promise of a brighter future, empowered by the support of Action Aid and their community.