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Kinshasa, DRC

Education + Job Skills for Kinshasa Youth

Preparing for Kinshasa's Future

Through our partners at Break the Chain of Poverty in the Democratic Republic of Congo, five schools have been funded and remodeled in the city of Kinshasa in the Tsangu district. With the oversight of DRCEO and highly trained teachers, elementary, middle and high school students receive excellent education and life-changing opportunities. The mission of the schools is "helping others help themselves".   AEE schools focus on excellent education and practical job skills for students, so that they can immediately pursue jobs after graduation. Students are taught to "act and not be acted upon", taking initiative in their goals, habits and problem-solving.   In addition to a strong foundation,  students can choose electives and programs that prepare them for jobs after high school.  Sewing machines and computer training have been donated to provide an obvious path to income for students when they graduate. Microscopes donated by BYU and a Science Lab donated from Morgan High School gives students a unique opportunity for hands-on science experience.
Through the generosity of the Maughan Family, 10 students received scholarships for higher education.
School Director Awards Scholarship
School Director awards scholarship in Dec.
Students excel in learning while experiencing the joy of childhood at AAEs preschools and elementary school.
Students line up in front of the recently remodeled school.

Infused with Hope

When we originally were introduced to these schools, they were in desperate need of remodeled facilities, bathrooms with doors, updated desks, fresh paint, and a sense of pride. With new leadership, passionate educators and skills-based training models, word spread quickly and registration filled.  Classes are at their max and student excitement is high – these kids are receiving the care and instruction for a strong foundation of life.

A PARENT PERSPECTIVE

Degot Mayesi is a father of three students in the AAE elementary school. He said that at their previous school, his children did not do their homework and struggled to succeed. Now at AAE, they have strong motivation and speak French fluently. One of his daughters was the recipient of a scholarship, which was an enormous relief to their family financially. He says the scholarship program at AAE is very unique, and the collaboration between teachers, students and parents is part of its success. Parents like Degot and his children are why AAE exist, to help parents and students help themselves create a bright future.

Investing in Women

AAE is investing into the future of women in DRC.  The school’s student government is made up of 77 % women. “Surely a perfect illustration of what’s to come in DRC” says our principal. This year for International Women’s Day in March, the students came up with their own theme of “I’m from Generation Equality: Stand up for Women’s Rights.” The two-fold approach to education is that education AND practical job skills is the most sustainable path for these children, and in particular the females, to provide for themselves in their future. 

Women Majority AAE School Congo
Female Majority Student Government at AAE School.

GET INVOLVED

How can you help? Please consider partnering with us in providing education opportunities. Your donation of $10/month could sponsor a student for an entire year. We are looking to expand the vocational training at the school to include sewing and computer training and would love to have you or your company be a sponsor.

DONATE