Foundation: Early Education in Agnam Tonguel, Senegal
Introduction: In the arid landscape of Agnam Tonguel, a village in rural northern Senegal, the seeds of the Jango Project took root. Inspired by the warmth and hospitality of the villagers and their expressed need for a preschool, the project sprouted towards a mission to create opportunities for impoverished and disadvantaged youth. Despite facing initial setbacks, the determination and resilience of the village, supported by generous donors, led to the successful establishment of the first school building. Today, the Jango Project continues to thrive, bringing hope and education to the community and continues to expand its impact with the construction of a second school.
The Birth of the Jango Project: Leaving his host village in Agnam Tonguel to pursue further education in Berlin, the project's founder sought to address the village's pressing needs. Through conversations with the villagers, it became evident that an ecole maternel (preschool) was essential for children to grasp the French language, their primary language of instruction, and to learn about their own culture and language, Pulaar. Moreover, the school aimed to support mothers by providing childcare while they pursued their own education and careers. The vision for the Jango Project was born, focused on empowering disadvantaged youth through quality education.
Overcoming Challenges: The project faced its first major setback when the first installment of funds intended for the school were stolen upon arrival in the village. Undeterred, the founder and local partner, Dieynaba, realized that they could not give up. They revised the budget, reached out to donors for additional support, and organized donation-based yoga classes to raise more funds. Eventually, the necessary amount was secured, allowing the construction of the first school building to proceed, marking a triumph of determination and community support.
Success and Expansion: With the support of the government, the first school building became a thriving educational hub for children aged four to seven. Teachers from larger cities were engaged to facilitate language training, while local mothers played a crucial role as cultural teachers. The success of the initial project led to the proposal for a second school building, adjacent to the first. Through passionate fundraising efforts, including substantial donations to provided improvements to the existing school, the Jango Project raised enough funds to commence construction on the second school.
Making an Impact: By early 2022, the second school building was completed, expanding the ecole maternel's reach and accommodating more than seventy-five students. With official recognition from the government and parents contributing financially, the school has flourished, providing daily meals to children and critical early education opportunities. The school also serves as a safe and engaging space for children, so their mothers are more free during the day to pursue their own education and careers.
Nature's Embrace and Future Plans: The Jango Project envisions a nurturing space for children to grow, learn, and explore. Plans are underway to construct a protective wall around the school grounds, providing a safe haven for play and incorporating elements of nature-based learning. This endeavor will not only safeguard the children but also cultivate an appreciation for the environment and the wonders of life, through permaculture experiements and cultural events.
Conclusion: The Jango Project's journey in Agnam Tonguel, Senegal, is a testament to the power of resilience, collaboration, and unwavering commitment. Through the establishment of preschools, the project has transformed the lives of numerous children and empowered parents in the community. With each successful endeavor, the Jango Project's impact continues to expand, opening doors of opportunity for vulnerable youth in the pursuit of a brighter future.
