Translation

Monday, October 12, 2015

Gettin' Schooled

5th grade students
School in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) isn’t free. Schools can cost anywhere from $5US to $50US/per month. The more expensive the school, the better the education. Imagine being the sixth or eight child in a family of ten children and hoping your parents will be able to afford for you to attend school.

The South Katanga District in Southern DRC has seen this need and has a vision to build schools, giving quality education to families who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford it.  One of these schools has officially opened in the neighborhood of Katuba, in Lubumbashi.

1st grade class
When construction on the school in Katuba began in July of 2014, children would gather around as the first bricks were laid and walls started to come up. When we would ask the children where they attend school, they would respond, “Here.” “No, where are you attending now? This school isn’t open yet.” Again, their response was, “Here!” That’s when we realized so many children were waiting for a good education at an affordable price.


 On October 5th, Complexe Scolaire du Nazaréen opened its doors to the community of Katuba hosting Kindergarten through 5th grade for $6.50 per month. Currently, there are over 100 students in attendance and more coming to enroll each day. Students are learning French (since most come from homes where only Swahili is spoken), Math, Science and Bible. Quality education with a Biblical foundation!