Submitted by Kenyan CTC Staff on Thu, 2011-05-19 11:48
At CTC Rafiki Link, we know that the best way to make a difference in our lives and the lives of others is to establish relationships. We "Think" about our place in the world by introducting ourselves and connecting to youth on the other side of the world. We then "Link" to the youth we have met through essays we write, shared poetry, or Skype conversations.
Now that we've gotten to know each other, it's time to "ACT" to make a difference in our communities. Rafiki Link students from Bodwell High School in Vancouver, BC met with Rafiki Link students from Maai Mahiu Secondary School in Maai Mahiu, Kenya to answer this question. They spent 2 weeks getting to know each other, setting up a community park in Maai Mahiu, and talking about ways to impact their community.
Here's what these students have come up with: a Knowledge and Resource Centre. They realised that most students in Maai Mahiu share textbooks with at least 3 or 4 other students, if they are lucky to have access to a textbook at all. They decided that if students want to study, they should have access not only to local textbooks but also to the most recent information available in the world, on the internet.
This year we'd like to launch the CTC Knowledge and Resource Center. Our goal is to establish a centre with hundreds of local textbooks, a set of modern computers available for internet research, and a support staff able to help students.
Here's what we aim to do with our funding:
$4800 - will purchase shelving, local textbooks, and a rented room
$9800 - will purchase all of the above plus an additional 10 computers used for research and connecting to schools globally
But it's not just about fundraising - why not promote the importance of reading and literacy in YOUR community. Volunteer to read books aloud to younger students, host a reading contest in your school, or write thank you letters to local librarians or community centres - it's up to you!
Let's build up the community knowledge & resources we have in our community as we work alongside youth in Maai Mahiu to set up their 1st ever "Knowledge and Resource Center" this year!
Asante sana (thank-you),
Mali, Rebecca, and Ruby Ruth - CTC Rafiki Link
