Nkanfoa
At times things move frustratingly slowly here. On arrival our two main projects were a new KVIP (Kumasi Ventilated Improved Pit-latrine— only learnt that today!) and an extension to the library which would also alter the position of what had been built as the Head Teacher's office. This new office was positioned so the the HT could see virtually no part of the school with stairs in front and a wall separating BS1-3 on the right from BS4 -6 on the left. The pupils might have thought this was a good idea but Diana felt she should be aware of all, or most of what is happening on the compound. The KVIP is now complete, except for some locks, but the library extension has problems! Initially when completed the roof leaked, which appears to have been sealed now with some bitumen applied both by Ian and the carpenter. We decided it would be sensible to paint the floor to keep the dust down. The problem? The paint will not dry. It appears that the concrete may not have been well mixed and laid so that today, February 24th, it was suggested that the floor be ripped up and a new screed put down, but mixed carefully in correct proportions. You can see why things move slowly. It will happen, but we had hoped to have been moved into the new office and library by now well before we go on furlough to the UK at the start of June until late August.
The next major project will be to build a JSS Pre-Technical and Pre-Vocational workshop for wood, metal, block making and catering. We have spent a lot of 'spare' time since November trying to see a workshop in action, but unsuccessfully, as most schools do not have one, or it is derelict. In the village, learning practical skills is going to be important as could lead to future employment for those who will not be able to gain Senior Secondary School places where AS level is taught.
Building some staff accommodation is still a dream, as for a teacher to have one room with no facilities and often wet when it rains is awful, but they might manage to emerge looking very clean and smart. The price of the land has risen from 6 million cedis to 10 million cedis but negotiations are still going on and we hope to get it down to 7.5 million a plot. The more we spend on land, the less there is for the housing. The houses are planned to be two rooms with a toilet and shower as well as electricity which, as the school grows, needs more staff. Some housing could attract teachers, as housing in Nkanfoa is either very expensive for the area, or as described.
A major aim remains to try to improve the children's
English, as this is the key to their future education. We have been very
fortunate this year in having an Experience Exchange Partner, Rose Woodruff,
who is 19 and helps in the school and we have had other folks visit for a few
weeks
to help. The workload is heavy, so any volunteer can be found as much work as
they wish and at the same time meet some of the friendliest people. Akwaaba
(Welcome) sums up the attitude of the Ghanaians and the warmth of their
welcome is wonderful. May we always be as welcoming to those who visit the UK.
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