
On a recent courtesy visit to Her Excellency, Mrs Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, The First Lady of the Gambia by Faith Morey, Okachi Charity Foundation founder strategic discussions on educational initiatives and key findings from school visits as well as collaborative initiatives between both parties were highlighted.
Her Excellency inquired about the challenges faced by the visited schools and explored how the Okachi Charity Foundation (OCF) can further support and enhance educational opportunities for Gambian children. In recognition of OCF’s Impact so far through their initiatives, The First Lady commended OCF’s dedication to education, particularly its adoption of six schools, impacting over 8,000 children through initiatives such as free volunteer teachers, playgrounds, and essential educational resources.
Discussions centered on a potential partnership between Okachi Charity Foundation (OCF ) and the Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow (FAAB) Foundation, which champions education, women’s health, children’s welfare, and community development. Special focus was given to aligning efforts to expand access to quality education and social support.
The meeting highlighted key initiatives from Gambia’s educational system that could be adapted to enhance learning outcomes and it includes Girls’ Education Sponsorships: Providing essential materials to encourage and sustain girls’ enrollment in school.
Free School Transportation: Ensuring that no child walks more than three miles to school, removing barriers to attendance.
School Feeding Program: Supporting low-income students with nutritional assistance to improve focus and learning capacity.
Future Implementation and Knowledge Sharing:
OCF expressed its commitment to integrating these insights into its 2025 Summer School Program, while also sharing findings with the Commissioner of Education in Port Harcourt to influence policy and practice.
Commitment to Inclusivity and Teacher Training:
A shared priority emerged—the need for enhanced teacher training to identify and support children with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive and equitable educational environment.
The meeting underscored a shared dedication to transforming education, empowering children, and fostering sustainable development. Her Excellency’s unwavering commitment to education and social welfare through FAAB is an inspiration, setting a strong foundation for impactful collaborations that will shape the future of countless children.