Peta Hall, our guest speaker on Sept 24, began with thanking the Rotary Club of Picton for its ongoing support of the construction of the outdoor classroom at Atorkor Vocational Training Institute in Ghana. It is used every day.
Originally form Zimbabwe, Peta gave an overview of her history being raised in Africa and observing inequities in the social structures before moving from Africa to Prince Edward County. However as the years passed she felt a calling to go back to Africa and try to address the desperate need for education.
She led the building of the school in Atorkor and opened with 11 students in 2011, teaching six different trades as well as English, Math, Business Administration, and Computer Studies. It is now a well-respected Technical Institute operated by the Department of Education with over 500 students, and its graduates leave with a University accepted certificate in Dress-Making, Textile Design, Catering, Electrical, Welding, and Construction.
While the standard of living is improving there are continuing funding challenges. Peta spoke of the program that funds a limited number of students with strict guidelines which need to be adhered to by the students.
Peta then provided an overview of a number of students who are sponsored through the program and are successfully working through the various curriculums, providing personal anecdotes about each.
Last month 60 students graduated, many of whom want to continue their education. The process for submitting these applications is ongoing although funding only addresses tuition, with many additional expenses uncovered. Peta hopes that the existing sponsorships continue and that others follow.
Questions and answers followed.
To see a video of the presentation on the Picton Rotary YouTube channel click here.