The International School of IITA and the friends and family of Namatai Tembo, a young alumna of the school who turned a school project into a life-changing initiative, recorded a heartwarming milestone at Aleelo Village on 6 May. What began as a simple classroom inquiry has blossomed into a tangible act of love and service: donating a well that will provide clean water to the Aleelo community in Akufo, Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State, and its local school.
The International School of IITA is an International Baccalaureate (IB) School that runs the Primary Years Program (PYP), where students in their final year make project exhibitions of their choice, having learned through inquiry-based education. Namatai’s journey began three years ago during her Grade 3 studies. Inspired by lessons on the importance of water and its scarcity in many parts of the world, Namatai and her classmates initially dreamed of digging a borehole for a local community. However, faced with financial limitations, they donated buckets and a water tank to people who needed water.
“During these classes, a seed of inspiration was planted in my heart,” Namatai shared during the well-opening ceremony. “We wanted to do something special, to dig a borehole for a local school. Although we couldn’t achieve it then, I never gave up on that dream.”
With unwavering determination, Namatai mobilized support from family, friends, and generous donors. Today, she stood before the people of Aleelo Village to hand over a fully functional well. “Enjoy the gift of water,” she told the cheering community. “Use it to create growth and wellness in your lives. Accept my gift of love and determination.”
Akindele Olutundun, speaking on behalf of the Aleelo community, expressed deep gratitude. She remarked, “People from this village usually go to the next village to get water. The donation of this well will serve us well. It will also benefit the schools in our community, which are just nearby. We are grateful and hopeful for more support.”
Tim Shepherd, Head of School at the International School of IITA, applauded Namatai’s achievement. He said, “The PYP is an inquiry-based education program that encourages students to think critically and take action. What we are witnessing today is the power of this innovative teaching method. Namatai has not only understood what she learned but has applied it meaningfully. We are incredibly proud of her.”
He added that the program is designed to prepare students for the evolving world of work and service. “We are raising a generation of thinkers — equipped to succeed in any field and to make the world a better place.” Namatai’s mother, grandmother, loving family and friends, colleagues, and esteemed teachers were especially proud of her. They all cheered and supported her with their presence and love at the opening ceremony and the first water drawing from the well.
The event concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the first joyous drawing of clean, refreshing water from the well. Community members celebrated with prayers and blessings for Namatai, hailing her as a beacon of hope and a true changemaker.
Contributed by Folake Oduntan
Related stories: August-2018-Edition.pub-checked.pdf
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