The tiny fishing village of Naherengue in Mozambique has very little. Like most of the country, it has been battered by years of colonial rule, civil war and famine. But the spirit of locals and the generosity of others have combined to give Mozambique something it has lacked for too long - a future.
In Naherengue, that future is starting in the most fitting of places. The village’s only school is about to get a makeover. The PwC Foundation has partnered with Save the Children and the local community to build three classrooms, drill a well for clean water, construct toilets for the students and provide training aids for teachers. The work will cost about $60,000.
Sarah Moors, National Manager of The PwC Foundation, says Save the Children’s focus on involving whole communities in implementing solutions is an ethos PwC applauds.
“By supporting children through education, you can positively impact a whole community and create lasting change," says Sarah. “We recognise the importance of education in building sustainable communities and we’re proud to be supporting Save the Children in Naherengue."
Throughout the third world, school communities are an indispensable tool for reaching the greater community and bringing home important messages about hygiene, disease prevention and sustainable practices.
The long-term goal of the project in Naherengue is to increase the participation of children in primary school, especially girls, so they can learn new behaviours and generate positive change.
Some benefits are obvious; improved classroom facilities and resources will mean better learning conditions for students and teachers.
Other benefits are more subtle. The learning that goes on in the school will generate positive change in the values held by the greater population. To support this process, parents will be encouraged to participate in community plans to foster girls’ retention and good performance in schools.
Having access to clean water at school means children will be spared a long and sometimes dangerous walk to traditional water holes to fetch water for their family, leaving them with more time to dedicate to their studies.
“Save the Children appreciates the invaluable support provided by The PwC Foundation, it is pleasing to know that our vision and values are shared by PwC, a strong member of the Australian corporate community, and its staff. Together, we will make brighter futures a reality for many generations to come in Naherengue", Margaret Douglas, CEO, Save the Children Australia.
“Together, we will make brighter futures a reality for many generations to come in Naherengue."
Margaret Douglas,
CEO, Save the Children Australia. |
