A successful Project Handover Ceremony was held at Beke Elementary School in Lemi Kura Sub-City under the Participatory Grant Making (PGM) Pilot Project, supported by Wilden Ganzen. The event marked the completion of a community-led initiative that directly responded to identified gaps in the school’s learning environment.
Through a participatory and transparent process, the advisory committee effectively delivered its mandate by procuring and installing essential library furniture and learning materials, including tables, chairs, bookshelves, and a diverse range of age-appropriate books. This intervention has transformed the school library into a functional and accessible learning space, significantly improving students’ access to reading materials and opportunities for self-directed learning.
As a result, the project is expected to contribute to improved reading culture, enhanced academic performance, and increased student engagement. Importantly, the process strengthened local ownership, accountability, and community participation in school improvement, demonstrating the effectiveness of participatory grant-making approaches in delivering sustainable and impactful education outcomes.
In addition, the advisory committee introduced a community-driven initiative under the principle of “one parent, one book,” which mobilized strong parental engagement and ownership. As a result, the majority of parents contributed at least one book, significantly enriching the school’s library resources. This collective action reflects a growing culture of community participation in supporting education.
The handover event also attracted additional contributions from key stakeholders. The Executive Director of The Well in Action donated 10 reference books, while staff members voluntarily contributed another 10 books, demonstrating institutional commitment beyond project obligations. Furthermore, the District Education Office contributed three dictionary books, reinforcing government support to the initiative.
To further enhance learning opportunities, The Well in Action donated four used desktop computers, expanding students’ access to digital learning resources and basic ICT exposure.
In addition, three used shelves were provided to support the establishment of a new school laboratory room. These assets were transferred in full compliance with regulations of the Authority for Civil Society Organizations, ensuring proper approval and accountability for fixed asset management. Overall, these combined contributions have not only strengthened the availability of educational resources but also fostered a strong sense of shared responsibility among community members school leadership, government stakeholders, and The Well in Action, enhancing the sustainability and long-term impact of the intervention.
The ceremony brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including school leadership, teachers, students, parents, and representatives from various directorates of Lemi Kura Sub-City. The strong attendance underscored the high level of community engagement and institutional collaboration achieved through the project.
During the event, students, teachers, and parents organized a special appreciation program, expressing their heartfelt gratitude for the support provided. Their testimonies reflected not only satisfaction with the tangible improvements but also a renewed sense of motivation and pride in their school environment.
Participants highlighted the effectiveness of the participatory grant-making approach, emphasizing its role in strengthening community ownership, transparency, and accountability. They noted that the process empowered local stakeholders to identify priorities, manage resources responsibly, and take collective responsibility for sustaining the results.
The active engagement and positive feedback from participants clearly demonstrate the added value and meaningful impact generated through the PGM intervention. It also reaffirms the continued commitment of The Well in Action (TWA) and Wilden Ganzen to supporting children, strengthening educational institutions, and advancing inclusive, community-driven development initiatives.
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