The Good Samaritan Association (GSA) recently completed a transformative project aimed at empowering students and parents in Bamenda, Cameroon. This initiative, titled Human Empowerment on Liquid Soap and Hair Oil Production, provided valuable skills that will help participants generate income and reduce their dependence on external resources.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
The two-day project took place from November 23rd to November 25th, 2024, at Angels of Bethany Secondary School in Abangoh, Bamenda. It reached 250 students and parents, all of whom participated in practical, hands-on training on producing liquid soap and hair oil. The project’s primary objective was to empower participants to become self-employed and reduce the rising unemployment rate in Cameroon.
By the end of the program, participants were equipped with the skills to produce these household items for both personal use and commercial purposes. This initiative was particularly meaningful as it catered to the needs of displaced individuals affected by the ongoing crises in the Northwest Region of Cameroon. With many families struggling to meet their basic needs, the ability to generate income through simple production processes was a life-changing opportunity for many.
Objectives and Target Beneficiaries
The project’s objectives were clear:
- Empower students and parents to become self-employed by teaching them to produce liquid soap and hair oil.
- Provide a source of income for less privileged students, helping them raise money for their education.
- Combat unemployment in Cameroon by offering accessible skills training.
- Incorporate the practical aspect of soap production into Chemistry lessons for students.
The beneficiaries of this program were students and parents from the school community, especially those who had been displaced due to the ongoing crisis in the region.
Activities and Implementation
The program included a series of informative and interactive activities:
- A welcome speech from the school principal, followed by a speech from the GSA team leader and a parent.
- Lectures on the production processes of liquid soap and hair oil.
- Identification of the required materials for production, followed by step-by-step, hands-on demonstrations with active participation from students and parents.
- Practical production of liquid soap and hair oil, with each participant creating their own batch to take home.
- A closing ceremony with testimonials from both students and parents, highlighting the success of the program.
Impact on the Community
The impact of this project was profound. Not only did it equip students and parents with practical skills for self-employment, but it also contributed to fostering a sense of self-reliance. Many participants testified to how they were already putting their new skills to use, producing and selling soap and hair oil for personal income. For some, this new income source was pivotal in helping them provide for their families and send their children to school.
One student shared, “I want to thank Good Samaritan Association for teaching me how to make hair oil and liquid soap. The project has empowered me on how to make liquid soap, sell it, and raise money to further my education.” A grateful parent added, “I am so grateful for what I have learned today; it will serve as my source of income to cater for my family.”
Challenges and Solutions
Like any project, there were challenges along the way. One of the key obstacles was the insufficient funds allocated for the program. This limited the resources available to fully equip all the participants with the necessary raw materials to start their own production. However, GSA managed to overcome this challenge by providing essential chemicals and materials to help participants get started.
Key Takeaways and Lessons Learned
From this project, several valuable lessons were learned:
- Empowering communities with practical skills is key to fostering independence and reducing unemployment.
- Humanitarian organizations play a crucial role in supporting the most vulnerable members of society.
- The program highlighted the importance of sufficient funding to ensure the success and sustainability of similar projects in the future.
Future Plans
The success of this project has prompted GSA to plan follow-up activities and similar projects in other areas. The organization is committed to continuing its mission of empowering communities, with a particular focus on providing more people with the tools they need to be self-sufficient.
How You Can Get Involved
GSA is calling on individuals and organizations to support future projects through financial sponsorship, volunteering, and fieldwork. Whether it’s offering expertise, donating materials, or volunteering time, your involvement can make a significant difference in the lives of many.
Call to Action
To learn more or get involved, visit GSA’s website, or contact them through their social media channels:
- Website: Good Samaritan Association
- Facebook: Good Samaritan Association
- Email: office@goodsamaritantoday.org
- Phone/WhatsApp: +237 679843974
The future of many families in Cameroon can be brighter with your support. Join GSA in its efforts to make lasting changes in the community and help empower those in need.
This project by the Good Samaritan Association exemplifies how small initiatives can make a big impact. It’s a reminder that even in the most challenging times, with the right support, people can overcome adversity and build better futures for themselves and their families.