Making a difference; one step at a time!

By Johanna Federwisch

As a teacher from the US coming to Ghana to teach, my expectations for teaching kids here was more of a dream and excitement than a reality. As we traveled here my thoughts and questions surrounding working with the students and teachers changed to “what do the kids actually learn about? Do they have supplies? What do the teachers make and do they take the profession seriously? Do the kids have enough food, are kids required to go to school, do they even like school?”

What I found is that there is a HUGE need here for everything related to education. More than I alone can give, but I have to remember that I am one person. What I am able to give is my training, time, effort, and love. Our team of 4, Becki+, Bruce, Debi and I are like the loaves and fishes in the bible. What we give multiplies through the teachers. And I can make a difference one step, one teacher, and one child at a time.

What Ghanaian teachers do in a day for the pay they get is absolutely beyond incredible and beyond being undervalued. They make about $30-$40 a month. Which is barely  enough to survive and not enough to thrive. Working conditions are harsh, and ultimately they teach life skills, values, and education for the love and enjoyment of it.

What I found from teaching here for only one week is that these kids do learn even without normal school supplies. Many children barely have enough nutritional food.. They learn to be respectful and responsible. They are typical kids who chatter and are eager to learn. They are happy and full of love, and I was glad to be a part of their lives even if for only a week. 

At the end of the week my experience teaching here was extremely fulfilling. It has made me beyond grateful for not only for what I have, but for what my children have in the United States.
May God bless these people! Until next time Ghana!