The problem
Numwa Secondary School, on the boundary of Imire, is the only high school in the region. It serves a massive area of more than 600 square kilometres and is attended by over 400 students. Many schoolchildren travel up to 15km each way every day by foot, or 30km each way by vehicle, just to attend class. This is a huge distance to cover each day by foot, and extremely costly by vehicle.
There is no official boarding facility at Numwa School. At the moment, 38 students, some as young as 12 years old, live in premises close to the school in an abandoned building. The students come from under-privileged families, many are orphans, and their funds are extremely limited. However, they all have a deep desire for education.
The current accommodation does not meet even a basic living standard. There is no security, lights, running water or adult supervision.
About the project
Imire have been raising funds to build a simple, safe and secure boarding facility next to Numwa School to house 40 students. Thanks to unbelievably generous donations from Imire volunteers and the Zimbabwe Gecko Foundation, we have been able to raise the money to begin the project. Despite the challenges of 2020, the project is now progressing quickly.
The facility will consist of:
- Three converted shipping containers equipped with secure windows, doors, solar lighting system, running water and curtains
- Two outdoor kitchens
- Shower and toilet facilities
- Shelving and storage around each bed
We plan on supplying bedding, linens and washing facilities (buckets, soap etc) for each student.
We will also assist with providing vegetable garden supplies (tools, seeds, water provision and piping) to enable the children to grow their own fresh vegetables.
Progress report - 12.10.2020
We are delighted that the dormitory is coming together so well, despite all the challenges that 2020 has thrown at us. The roof trusses are now on, the door and windows are going in and it is starting to take shape!
We cannot thank enough everyone who has donated to this project. We know that the facility will be life-changing for the students who will use it when school reopens in 2021.
If you would like to donate, every donation helps, no matter how small and it is so appreciated.
Please send an email to Candice Travers, [email protected] and she will be able to advise you further.
We will keep you updated on our progress!
