In a region torn by socio-political unrest, where hope often seems like a distant dream, the Good Samaritan Association (GSA) is lighting a path forward—through education.
As part of its mission to uplift communities in the North West Region of Cameroon, GSA recently launched a project titled:
“Uplifting Disposition to Studies in Students through the Award of Academic Prizes.”
Restoring Hope Through Education
The project, executed on May 28, 2025, was inspired by a growing concern: the diminishing desire for academic pursuit among students in the region due to nearly eight years of crisis. Schools have been shut down. Families displaced. Education—once a beacon of progress—has been interrupted and undervalued.
To combat this, GSA focused on recognizing and rewarding excellence, believing that academic prizes could help reignite passion for learning. And it worked.
Project Planning and Execution
The initiative began with early mobilization on May 20, 2025, where school administrators across the region were contacted. Students with outstanding academic performance were identified in advance. GSA purchased school bags, books, pens, and buckets, which were then transported to the various schools by the team.
On the event day, students and their parents were assembled. After opening remarks by school principals, the GSA director delivered an impassioned message, encouraging academic focus despite the difficult times.
45 outstanding students were called out amid applause and awarded their prizes. Two of the beneficiaries shared heartfelt words about the significance of the gesture.
Impact on Students and Parents
The event wasn’t just a distribution of school supplies—it was a revival of hope. It rekindled the academic spirit not only in the awardees but also in their classmates and families.
“I haven’t collected any award this time. But next year, I will. I will work harder,”
said one non-beneficiary student, fired up by the moment.
A parent noted: “Thanks dearly to Good Samaritan Association for awarding prizes to our children. This will reduce the burden of buying books and bags as we prepare for the next school year.
Challenges and Smart Solutions
Despite the success, the project wasn’t without obstacles. GSA faced financial limitations, making it difficult to include every deserving student. The cost of transportation for the team and materials was also a major hurdle.
In response, GSA reduced the quantity of some items per beneficiary to extend the reach of the project. A vehicle was hired, albeit expensively, to transport the team and supplies—ensuring the mission was accomplished.
Lessons Learned and Takeaways
This project served as a vivid reminder of:
- The power of recognition in education.
- The importance of continuous motivation in times of crisis.
- The role of parents and NGOs in shaping educational outcomes.
Key takeaways included the need for scholarships, regular educational sensitization, and government support for private schools to reduce the financial burden on parents.
Looking Forward
GSA plans to make this an annual program, with the next round of awards slated for the 2025/2026 academic year. They’ve already begun making plans to expand the scope and reach more students across the region.
Join Us in Transforming Lives
If you believe education can change the world, then this is your chance to be part of that change. Good Samaritan Association is calling on individuals, donors, and partners to support the mission:
✅ Donate school supplies or funds
✅ Volunteer your time or skills
✅ Spread the word to potential sponsors
Contact Information
To support or learn more about the Good Samaritan Association and upcoming initiatives:
- 📞 Phone/WhatsApp: +237 679843974
- 🌐 Website: goodsamaritantoday.org
- 📧 Email: office@goodsamaritantoday.org
- 📘 Facebook: Good Samaritan Association
Let’s empower the future—one student at a time.