The Gambia
Things to know when visiting a school in The Gambia
There are lots of things to do in The Gambia and visiting a school is just one of them. It’s great fun to interact with the schoolchildren and you’ll get to learn something about the school system in this small African country. Here’s what you should do:
How to arrange a visit?
During our visit to The Gambia, visiting a school was actually not on our list of things to do. It was our driver and guide who suggested it to us and to be honest, we weren’t really that enthusiastic. We were already driving for hours on dusty roads in a very small, very crappy car, wondering how the hell it was possible to drive so long in a country as small as The Gambia. We had been from Bakau to Serrekunda, Banjul and Janjabureh (Georgetown) with a few stops in between, we were really tired and eager to go back to the comfort of our hotel. On the other hand: we knew we would regret not visiting a school, so maybe a short stop? And was our guide sure we would not disturb the students and teachers? No worries. Almost immediately as we stopped we were surrounded by enthusiastic schoolchildren, all laughing, playing, shouting…and they all wanted their picture taken.
Our visit was unplanned and unannounced, but it is easy to arrange a visit:
- A lot of local tour agencies have school visits on their program, but you can also ask around in your hotel of ask the taxi driver.
- It may be a good idea to visit a more remote school. These don’t get that much visits from tourist and are in extra need of school supplies and help.
How to give something back?
The principal gave us a tour of his school and the students were proud to show off the things they were learning. Turned out this unexpected visit was one of the highlight of our Gambia road trip. We didn’t want to leave without returning the warm welcome with a small gift but since we brought nothing with us, we donated a small amount of money.
Do’s and don’ts
Visiting schools in The Gambia is popular among tourist, and when asked what people should bring (or not), these are the tips the principle gave us:
- “Notebooks, pencils, sharpers and erasers are always welcome. We prefer pencils over pens because writings in pencil can be erased and the paper can be used again.”
- “Don’t bring any candy or toys, there are too many children and there will always be children who will feel left out.”
- “Some parents don’t have the money to buy the school-uniform: if you want to donate uniforms, just ask the head of the school or the teachers and they will be happy to direct you to the shop where you can buy them.”
- “Whatever you bring, give it to the head of the school or the staff. They will give it to the children who need it the most. Like I said, there are a lot of children, it’s difficult to give something to everyone.”
Leave a Comment
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
Amazing photography skills!!!
Tx Raphael! 🙂
Great tips and fantastic photos! It’s always commendable trying to give something back, but it’s also necessary to know the right procedure. As you say, it’s tough for any kid to feel left out. Good luck and safe travels!
Great photos! Giving back on travels is so wonderful. We’ve visited several schools in Costa Rica and it’s always been an amazing experience.
Giving back as you travel! Isnt that grand, I like the tip about giving the items to the staff. I would just start handing them out, and then I’d feel rotten for those kiddies who missed out. Also thanks for linking up with us for Sunday Traveler, would be great if you can link back to one of the hosts / add the badge when you can.
Photos are amazing! It makes me so said to know that these kids miss such an essential things like pencils (not to mention food!). Lovely article, and I am sure very enriching experience.
Yes, the kids miss so much things, and yet they were so kind and proud. Really makes you think about how lucky we are.
Some great tips, and your photos are beautiful! I would love to visit one day!
Tx Emma!
Oh wow that sounds amazing!! I love your photos too.
Thank you 🙂
Nice post – looks like a great experience. I was in the Gambia earlier this year but had a worrying visit to Juffure on the Roots trail – a sad case of tourism gone bad with children encouraged into begging. This sounds like a much nicer way to interact.
Hi Jo! Yes, children who are encouraged into begging is so wrong, on so many levels. I think that, as a tourist or traveler, you can enjoy the countries you’re visiting, but you also have responsibilities. That’s why I never give money or candy to children (or grownups) who beg. I do support some charity organizations, these are much better trained in helping than me :).
I’ve just read your posts on The Gambia: really great writings! It was so recognizable, you describe it really as it is!