Krutiase D/A Basic school; A place of hope

Our search for the 2024 edition of "Project Smile at School" was nothing short of extraordinary. It tested our resilience, teamwork, and commitment to making a meaningful impact.

We began our journey in the Shai Osudoku District of the Greater Accra Region, embarking on a 2-hour 45-minute trip early one beautiful morning. The three-member scouting team meticulously planned the route, which led us to:

• Doryumu, a small town on our path, where we assessed a school.

• New Jerusalem, a suburb near the scenic Shai Hills nature reserve.

Despite the promise these locations showed, the team decided to explore further for a third option. This decision led us to a hidden gem—Krutiase D/A Basic School.

Krutiase D/A Basic School exceeded our expectations and met all the criteria we set:

• Manageable Student Population: A size that fit within our limited resources.

• Accessibility: Located just 2 hours from Accra, enabling a same-day round trip.

• Genuine Need: The school showed an authentic need for educational resources and support.

• Sustainability Goals: Our efforts would create a lasting impact on individuals and the broader community.

• Community Context: Krutiase is a small, deprived village in the Okere District of the Eastern Region, home to industrious peasant farmers growing grains, plantains, cassava, and vegetables.

Our first visit revealed the potential and determination of the children, who were eager to excel despite their challenges. The teachers’ resourcefulness and innovative teaching methods left us inspired and convinced that this was the perfect choice.

On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, a nine-member team set off from Accra at 7:50 AM. After navigating some delays due to traffic, we arrived at Krutiase around 11:00 AM.

The atmosphere was electric:

• The students, dressed in their best clothes, radiated excitement and joy.

• Parents beamed with gratitude.

• Representatives from the district education committee graced the occasion.

• Performances by the students—recitals, songs, and dances—drew cheers and applause, showcasing their incredible talent and effort.

The team split into two groups to manage the activities efficiently:

1. Engaging the Students: Fun and interactive sessions.

2. Organizing Donations: Ensuring items were distributed in an orderly manner with the help of teachers.

The day was filled with joy, laughter, and moments of heartfelt connection.

As a token of gratitude, parents gifted the team with farm produce such as plantains, cassava, oranges, and garden eggs. We, in turn, donated:

• Study materials and stationery

• Sports equipment

• Office supplies

• Clothes, shoes, and bags

• Art kits, drinks, biscuits, and toffees

Many of these items were generously donated by students of Hethermann Wesslink College in the Netherlands.

Krutiase D/A Basic School left an indelible mark on our hearts. Witnessing the resilience, gratitude, and determination of this community was a humbling experience.

We hope to build a long-term relationship with Krutiase, returning in the future to keep the smiles alive and contribute to their continued growth and development.

Krutiase is more than just a place—it is a testament to hope, perseverance, and the power of community.

Date: 18th December 2024