The HOPE train …Bawjiase and its environs

In a remarkable effort to bridge the educational and health gaps in the Bawjiase enclave, HOPE for little lives with the support of the KGL Foundation and Star Assurance, has successfully conducted a series of impactful educational sessions targeting both primary and senior high schools.

These sessions, part of the broader HOPE Train initiative, occurred on the 3rd and 17th of August 2024, reaching approximately 800 students across four schools: Obrachire DA Basic School, Bewuanum St. Paul’s Anglican Basic School, Obrachire Senior High School, and Bontrase Senior High School.

These sessions covered vital topics, such as personal grooming and hygiene, raising awareness about reproductive health and safe practices, promoting STEM education with a particular focus on female students, and fostering literacy through the donation of books and learning materials. The establishment of a Reading Club in the basic schools was a significant highlight, designed to cultivate a culture of reading and enhance literacy skills among the students.

This initiative aligns seamlessly with the mission of HOPE for little lives to provide holistic care to children through Health, Outreach, Personal grooming and Education, ensuring that every child they encounter reaches their full potential.

The programme in Bawjiase is part of the final phase of the HOPE Train initiative in the area, which began during Easter 2024. During this period, the organisation conducted 48 free paediatric surgeries for children at the Trauma and Specialist Hospital in Winneba, addressing various paediatric surgical conditions and providing much-needed care to vulnerable families. Surgical conditions included but were not limited to, umbilical hernias, inguinal hernias, hypospadias, and circumcisions.

Dr Jeffrey Parker, Director of Programmes and Outreaches at HOPE for little lives, expressed his delight at the successful completion of the initiative in the Bawjiase area. “We are thrilled to have been able to bring our comprehensive support to the children, families, and schools in these communities,” he said. “Putting smiles on the faces of little children is at the core of what HOPE for little lives, our partners, and our sponsors believe in.”

The impact of the sessions was evident in the testimonials shared by students from the various schools. Many expressed how the sessions had positively impacted their lives and how the by grooming and hygiene has made me more conscious of my daily habits, and I am now more aware of the importance of cleanliness.” Another female student highlighted the importance of the STEM education sessions, particularly for female students, saying, “It has inspired me to pursue a career in science and technology. I now believe that girls can excel in these fields too.”

According to the Founder and Executive Director Dr Maame Tekyiwa Botchway (a paediatric surgeon), the HOPE Train initiative has not only touched the lives of the children in the Bawjiase community but has also laid a foundation for sustainable development through education and health awareness. The collaboration efforts HOPE for little lives has with the KGL Foundation, Star Assurance, and local volunteers have demonstrated the power of teamwork in driving a positive change.

Communication and Public Relations Manager at HOPE for little lives Mr. Emmanuel Delanyo Ndinyah extended an invitation to individuals and organisations to support the organisation’s efforts as the HOPE Train prepares to move to another location in Ghana this December. “Our mission is far from complete, and we rely on the generosity of corporate Ghana and other well-meaning organisations to continue making a difference in the lives of these children,” he added.

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