Established in 2014 through a partnership between the local community and the government, Funsi Senior High School has long been a beacon of hope for education in the district. However, for the Home Economics department, that hope has often been met with the harsh reality of inadequate resources.
The clothing department, a vital wing of the school’s vocational training, has struggled to provide hands-on experience to its growing student body. Currently, the department serves approximately 75 students, yet for years, they relied on only three functional sewing machines.
Safiu Shaibu, a student in the clothing class, lamented the daily struggles they face. According to Shaibu, on days scheduled for practical lessons, students are often forced to trek into town to borrow sewing machines from local tailors just to complete their assignments.
Mr. Bacholo Katongtia Eric, a teacher at the school, shared his frustration over the logistical nightmare. “After teaching the students the theory of cutting and design, we have to demonstrate it practically. With only five machines for 75 students, it is nearly impossible to give every child the practice they deserve,” he explained.
Nejc Skofic, a member of the “Yagayagas” the Slovenia-based band that performs with international Afro-pop star Wiyaala, the “Lioness of Africa” donated two brand-new sewing machines to the school.
In an interview with Pulung News, Skofic recalled his visit to the school two years ago. After hearing the Headmaster’s plea regarding the shortage of equipment, he felt a personal responsibility to act.
“The Headmaster told me the school had only two machines for about fifty students at the time. I felt it was prudent to support them. I am happy to see these machines being put to use,” Skofic said.
He further encouraged the students to stay resilient: “Go out for what you want, work hard, and follow your heart. Something good will happen in your lives.”
Receiving the donation, the Headmaster of Funsi SHS, Mr. Sulemani Dramani, expressed profound gratitude to Wiyaala, Nejc Skofic, and the entire Yagayaga team. He described Wiyaala not just as a global star, but as a “blessing” and a true friend to the school.
However, the deficit remains steep. With the new donation bringing the total to five machines, the school still lacks roughly 70 machines to reach the goal of a 1:1 student-to-machine ratio for a full class.
“Like Oliver Twist, we are appealing for more,” Mr. Dramani hinted, urging other organizations, individuals, and NGOs to follow the example set by the Yagayaga band to ensure the youth of Funsi receive quality vocational education.
