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Visiting program schools always gives me a renewed feeling of optimism and inspiration, and my trip to Liberia was no exception. In late May, I had the opportunity to visit Samuel D. Hill Public School in Bomi County and observe life skills lessons being taught to adolescent girls as part of CODE’s Girls’ Accelerated Learning Initiative (GALI). This visit provided me with a powerful reminder of the transformational power of education. I was impressed with the persistent determination of these young women to make positive changes in both their own lives and their nation.
The GALI program is designed to help girls who are older than their classmates, having missed out on years of schooling because of economic hardships, societal norms, or familial responsibilities. Despite these obstacles, the GALI girls are proving that it’s never too late to dream big and pursue those dreams with passion and determination.
During my visit, I was warmly welcomed by the Head Teacher, Madam Eva Cassel. She expressed her gratitude to CODE for the GALI Program and highlighted how beneficial the program has been for the girls. Madam Eva Cassel mentioned that the GALI program is a blessing for these girls, equipping them with essential life skills and helping them complete their primary education. She allowed me to observe a life skills lesson in progress. The focus that day was on reproductive health, puberty, and the physical changes that accompany this stage, aimed at helping girls understand and embrace both the physical and emotional aspects of puberty. The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with enthusiasm and a strong sense of purpose. Each girl was actively engaged, participating in discussions, asking questions, and sharing her views.
When I had the chance to ask the girls about their life goals, I was impressed by their confidence and clarity in expressing their aspirations. One by one, they stood up and shared their future ambitions.
One girl shared her dream of becoming a doctor. She spoke passionately about her desire to improve healthcare in her village and ensure that no one suffers due to a lack of medical facilities. Another girl dreamed of becoming a lawyer to protect the rights of the marginalized.
Perhaps the most touching moment was when a girl expressed her ambition to become a Minister of Liberian government. She spoke with conviction about her vision to eradicate poverty and create opportunities for all, especially for girls like her who have faced significant challenges. Her words spoke to the potential that lies within each of these girls and the importance of providing them with the support and resources they need to succeed.
The life skills lessons in the GALI program are doing more than just teaching practical skills; they are empowering these girls to believe in themselves and their ability to create change. They are learning to navigate the complexities of life with confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose. By fostering a supportive and encouraging environment, the program is helping these girls develop the skills and mindset needed to achieve their goals. Their dreams are not just aspirations; they are blueprints for a better tomorrow. We must all work together to help them reach their full potential so that every girl can fulfill her aspirations and make a positive contribution to the advancement of her country.