In 2022, Acronis made a contribution to the community of Barbara, Sierra Leone, by funding the construction of three new classrooms at the local school. This initiative has brought about remarkable changes in the educational landscape of the area.
The construction of the new classrooms has led to a noticeable increase in student enrollment and attendance. Parents in Barbara and neighboring communities are no longer burdened with the high costs of sending their children to distant urban centers for schooling. Previously, many families had to send their children to cities or villages which are 20-40 km far from Barbara, which required additional expenses for accommodation and sustenance. The new facilities have alleviated these financial pressures and allowed children to receive quality education closer to home.
Also, the new classrooms provide a much-improved learning environment. Previously, students had to contend with dusty, cracked walls and leaky roofs, which disrupted lessons, especially during the rainy season. The new buildings offer spacious, well-ventilated classrooms that are conducive to learning. This comfortable environment has significantly increased students’ concentration and overall academic performance. Before the construction, the school had an enrollment of 250 pupils. This number has now risen to 375, reflecting the increased demand for education in the area. Students’ academic performance has also seen a marked improvement. In the first Basic Education Certificate Examination (B.E.C.E) after the construction, the highest-scoring pupil achieved an aggregate score of eighteen, with the lowest scoring twenty-seven. This is a significant achievement, considering the grading scale set by the West Africa Examination Council (WAEC).
Except for studies, students also enjoy a range of extracurricular activities, including sports and various clubs, which contribute to their overall development.
The improvements have also positively impacted teachers. The new facilities, including an administrative building, staff room, and principal’s office, have made administrative tasks more manageable and created a more conducive working environment. Teachers are now more motivated and committed, leading to increased efficiency and a more effective teaching process.
The school administration has ambitious plans to establish a senior school to address the challenges of long-distance travel for senior school education. Future projects include constructing new toilets, implementing a rainwater harvesting system for school farming projects, and eventually installing a well, though financial support is needed to bring these plans to life.
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