When Joan and Phil Feller visited the school in May they were moved to tears to hear the story told by the mother of one of the youngest nursery pupils: Momodou Lamin Njie.

She explained that when he was born they all thought he was a healthy baby and his eyes looked normal but as time went by he did not react to movement or reach out for anything. His parents took him to see many doctors and family members assisted with the cost of taking him to Dakar in Senegal for a CT scan as such facilities were unavailable in The Gambia. But no-one could tell them why Momodou could not see.

“I explained that sometimes a light bulb would appear to be perfect but if the cable was cut or not connected it would not shine,” said Phil. It was not easy for Momodou to reach the school in Serrekunda as it was some distance from his home. (Left - Momodou at the school)

Owing to the generosity of a lady who had recently visited the school and who wished to support Momodou, the Friends left funds to enable his parents cover the transport costs. In November enquiries will be made to see if it is possible to provide further assistance for him.

The Fellers received a resounding "YES" when they asked the children if they enjoyed their breakfasts which are paid for by the Friends.

Below: The deputy head teacher, Mrs Camara, preparing sandwiches for breakfast. She is also shown receiving the new tape recorders provided by the Friends. On the right is Joan Feller and on the left Lamin Saidi, the Friends representative in the Gambia.

Whilst Joan and Phil were in Banjul they were introduced to a young visually impaired man called Muhammed Krubally. He wished to say thank you for the Braille machine he recently received which will assist him in the continuation of his studies in law at Banjul University. That and one other Braille machine were sent out by Roger and Susan Gallagher.

The IEP is now supplying blind and visually impaired children with Braille machines when they are attending government schools and so the Friends will now seek to help those who want to go onto further education like Muhammed Krubally. (Below: older pupils at the school using the braillers)

 

< Prev		Next >