We met Aaron and his family in 2021. He is now pursuing a degree in law. But in the meantime, he and his wife Mariama, decided to start a school that would serve the children of their neighborhood. They desired to provide quality Christian education at low cost. They named it Tengbeh International School.
We were excited to see the school. Aaron borrowed a car from a friend and drove us to the school. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but the beauty is on the inside, where there are various classrooms filled with children according to age and ability. We were amazed at the young teachers and their engagement with the students.
Some of the teachers had certificates to teach from Freetown Teachers College. However teachers are paid less than the equivalent of $100/month. Many of the teachers were working as teachers during the day and pursuing college degrees at night. Several of the young teachers were graduates of Tengeh School and were passing there knowledge and passion to the young students.
Many of the teachers told us that Aaron was their example and like a father to them. It was very inspiring for us to hear.
After visiting the school, we went to Aaron and Mariama’s home where we were served fish, potatoes, fried plantains and papaya. Most was prepared by their daughter, Martha. Yumm! I’m still not used to eating the fish and picking through all the bones!
Tim & Kathy Simonsen 