School Visit

Children Lining Up For Introductions

In an effort to get out of the city and see a bit more of Nigeria, the team ventured to Minna, the capital of Niger State.  We left Abuja before the sun was up in order to avoid the impending street closures needed for mandatory street cleaning.  The trip lasted about three hours and it took us by Zuma Rock, small villages, booming market places, and the picturesque countryside.  Our ultimate destination was school for the deaf and blind.  The children who attend this school also live there year round.

Upon our arrival, we met the principal and director of the school as well as took a brief look at the exterior of the school.  It was pretty basic.  There two long barrack style rooms, one for the girls and one for the boys.  Lined up were rows of bunk beds.   Each bed had a mosquito net, which is quite important to prevent malaria.  Windows to the dorms were open to welcome the breeze, as there is no air conditioning, heat, or running water for the bathroom.  A few of us brave ladies visited the bathrooms, but believe me, it was out of necessity not curiosity.  We were able to see the classrooms which consisted of wooden benches and desks.

Typical Classroom

The children were delighted to meet us.  They were eager to know where we had come from and why we were visiting.  One little boy immediately made friends with Kim, as he took her hand as she walked.  The teachers asked the older students to help gather the little ones and to ensure they put on their school uniforms.  Then they all lined up in front of the main building.  The principal addressed them to introduce us as well as give a very motivational speech.  He stressed the importance of their studies and education and told them they can achieve anything they aspire to do, that their physical disabilities would not prevent them from realizing their dreams.

Ability in Disability Play

Each member of our team addressed the students, stating our name and what country we were from.  The students were especially fascinated with the teammates from India.  In preparation for our visit, many of us brought pencils, candies, and games for the children.  We passed out the goodies and Kim and Glyn played soccer with them.  A few of the older students put on a play for us, titled “There is Ability in Disability” and then some others did a dance number.  However, the children were most excited in having their picture taken.  They wanted group shots and individual shots which each of us.  They were so excited to be on camera.

Demonstrating Dance Moves

Before we left each of us donated one day of our per diem (about $45) to the school to be used to purchase supplies as needed.  While we have no way of actually knowing how the money will be spent, we hope it will go to improving the lives of these children.

Snap Shots With Some of The Students

More Snap Shots With Some of The Students

 #IBMCSC Nigeria