United Siyafunda is dedicated to supporting the transformation of The Gambia’s education system through the introduction of computer-based learning for school children and adults in the local community. We are currently working with Mr. Alpha Bah from the Gambian Ministry of Education to set up an action research project in a rural government school, serving as a proof of concept for how technology can leapfrog traditional barriers to quality education.
Gambia is currently facing a learning crisis, and the Ministry of Education lacks the funding to initiate this research. Mr. Bah has personally provided start-up funding for our internet connectivity through Starlink, along with a smart TV and four initial Chromebooks. However, the teachers currently lack access to computers and basic digital literacy. To bridge this gap and successfully provide connecting rural schools initiatives, we must scale our efforts.
A core pillar of our strategy is community engagement. We are working closely with local stakeholders and parents to ensure that this project is not just an equipment drop, but a sustainable educational movement that empowers the entire village. By fostering this deep community engagement, we are building a supportive ecosystem that ensures our SteamTools are used effectively and that digital literacy becomes a long-term goal for the region.
A Call to Action for Arm
We are seeking support from employees at Arm to fund the next phase of this project:
20 additional Chromebooks: GMD 17,000 each
Uninterrupted power supply: GMD 19,000
Secure storage/charging cupboard: GMD 13,000
Electrical upgrades: GMD 9,850
United Siyafunda is managing the project, providing all teacher training and consultancy free of charge. By improving internet connectivity and providing hardware, we can turn this school into a national model. We are eager to demonstrate how these resources will improve the quality of learning and serve as a beacon for future strategic planning. We would be delighted to visit Arm to give a presentation on the project and the impact of connecting rural schools in this region to our young innovators.
