On September 1st, 2024, the Good Samaritan Association (GSA) brought renewed hope to the children of Bafut in the North West Region of Cameroon through its Back-to-School Project. The initiative provided school bags, books, pens, rulers, pencils, and other academic materials to marginalized children whose education has been severely disrupted by the ongoing socio-political crisis in the region.
Project Background
For more than eight years, the crisis in the North West Region has paralyzed education. Schools have closed, families have been displaced, and many children have lost their enthusiasm for learning. GSA launched this project with a simple but powerful goal: assist marginalized children academically and reignite their desire for education.
Mobilization and Implementation
Mobilization began on August 15, 2024, with GSA volunteers collecting statistics on the number of children in need. The leaders of Bafut village were informed, and the distribution day was set for September 1st.
On the day of the event:
Parents and children assembled at the Quarter Hall by 8:00 am.
The village head welcomed everyone and introduced the GSA team.
The GSA project manager addressed the crowd, explaining the project’s objectives.
Volunteers distributed school materials, grouping children by age to ensure fair allocation.
The excitement was palpable. Children promised to stay committed to their studies, while parents pledged to guide them, despite the challenges posed by the crisis.
Impact on the Community
The project benefited 200 children in Bafut. It reduced the financial burden on parents at the start of the 2024/2025 academic year and reignited children’s enthusiasm for learning.
A student beneficiary testified:
“I want to thank Good Samaritan Association for encouraging us through academic assistance and for reminding us of the importance of education. This project has ignited in me the desire to be more committed to my studies even in the midst of crisis.”
A parent added:
“Thanks dearly to Good Samaritan Association for subsidizing our children’s education. These materials will reduce the burden of buying school supplies this year.”
Village leaders also commended the initiative, promising to continue prioritizing education in Bafut.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
The project was not without its difficulties. GSA faced:
Insufficient funds to purchase enough school materials for all children.
High transportation costs to deliver materials and the team to the village.
Despite these challenges, GSA adapted by reducing the number of items given per child so more children could benefit.
From this project, GSA learned the necessity of:
Supporting marginalized children in rural areas.
Continuously enlightening parents and students on the value of education.
Expanding such outreach to other villages.
Future Plans
GSA plans to continue follow-up activities and expand similar initiatives during the 2024/2025 academic year and beyond. The organization also intends to award prizes to outstanding students, further encouraging academic excellence.
How You Can Support
The Good Samaritan Association relies on the generosity of individuals and partners. You can support by:
Offering financial sponsorship.
Volunteering for field activities.
Inviting GSA for seminars and discussions on educational support.
Contact Information
For more information or to support future projects:
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +237 679843974
🌐 Website: goodsamaritantoday.org
📧 Email: office@goodsamaritantoday.org
📘 Facebook: Good Samaritan Association
✨ Through this project, GSA has proven once again that education is a beacon of hope even in times of crisis. By investing in the children of today, we are securing a brighter tomorrow.