For over 20 years, the Lord has granted His abundant favor on our educational endeavors in rural areas of the country. Just this year, God has opened a brand new door of opportunity. Last month, we were approached by local chiefs of neighboring villages who have watched the success of our programs and the high standard of our secondary schools, and they have offered us 12 acres of land to start our first primary school in Mokanji for boys and girls. They are giving the land and 12 buildings (damaged in the war) to us at no charge—with no expectation of remuneration. They said it’s “because of the impact that MissionGO has made on this community.”
We have two main goals for our first Primary School (Kindergarten-6th grade).
The first goal is to teach, train, and disciple young boys and girls in the truth of God’s Word so that they can experience a personal relationship with Jesus, live vibrant Christian lives in the community, and be equipped and passionate about sharing their faith with others. Similar to our secondary schools, each day will begin with worship, prayer, and a short Bible lesson. Because the primary school is in a predominately Muslim community, the focus will be on the truths of the triune God, the True Jesus—God’s Son, and His death, burial, and resurrection.
The second goal for our Primary School is to provide a strong educational foundation so the students will be set up for success in other areas of study and future careers. When students come to our secondary schools (grades 7-12), few of them can read and comprehend at a second-grade level! We desire students leaving 6th grade to be able to read and understand what they read. All education and testing in Sierra Leone are done in English, making English the third language for most students. It is important that they receive instruction in English from an early age so that they have the vocabulary necessary to do well in the academic environment. Our school will follow the national curriculum, except for a phonetical approach to reading and the inclusion of Bible classes (including Bible memorization).
Each class size will be 10-15 students, growing to a total enrollment of around 100 students.
We plan to open in September 2024!
Phase Two will include digging an additional water well to support the new school and overall campus, providing a secure border on the northeast side of the compound, and upgrading our solar panel system to accommodate the additional school buildings and houses.Lord willing, if you’re reading about these opportunities for the first time, you will catch the vision and join us! With your prayers, donations, and desire for young children to be taught God’s truths and set up for success, you are impacting generations. You play a vital role in helping us continue opening doors for the Gospel and bringing education to rural areas for those who could not afford it otherwise! Would you prayerfully consider what God would have you give towards this exciting new Primary School? May God be glorified.