Bicycles offer hope for brighter future

Joana, (pictured) used to walk 10 km to her rural school in Northern Ghana. On hot days, the trek was physically draining; on rainy days strong winds dampened her spirit. Sometimes she crossed paths with snakes. The journey also left her vulnerable to bullying by older students.

Many of Joana’s peers had a similar journey to school. They couldn’t concentrate in class after the long trek. Many got poor grades and lost their drive to go to school. Eventually, their parents put them to work on their farms.

Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (CCFC) provided a much-needed solution, donating more than 200 bicycles to as many students last year.

Now that their travel time is shorter, the students have more energy and can concentrate in class better.

Joana, 12, is already noticing the difference it’s making in her life. “Going to school has become exciting, particularly when I ride with the other girls to school,” she says. “I used to get poor marks in math (40 percent), but I am gradually improving. I now get over 60 percent.”

Samira used to miss school, often after tiring morning treks to fetch water. Now she attends regularly thanks to her new bike. “I am sure [I’ll] improve in math, so I can achieve my dream of becoming a nurse,” says the 12-year-old.

Teachers can see the difference the bikes make, too. “[They’ve] brought excitement. The children who live further away from school now come regularly,” notes John Naporo, the head teacher at the local school. “[Their] work is also improving, and we are grateful to CCFC and their donors for this great improvement in our community.”

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.