It was early Monday morning, and I was seated in public transport heading to Madina. As the mate (conductor) began calling for fares, I raised my head, half awake, and something caught my attention.
On the back of his shirt was the inscription:
“Let’s put our minds together and see what life we can make for our children.” – Sitting Bull
Those words struck me deeply, and I found myself reflecting on them throughout the journey.
They reminded me of the Local Changemakers (Catalysts) who unite to apply to EduSpots to establish community learning centres, known as Spots, in their communities. I began to wonder: What drives them? Perhaps something close to this very idea, joining minds and hearts to create a better future for the next generation.
“Seeing learners gain confidence, think critically, and express themselves creatively inspires me every day, and that motivates me to do my best to help them realise their potential because by doing so, I also discover hidden talents that I can showcase from within me.” _ Wise Kofi Afadzinu, Spot Lead, Abutia Spot
Across the 50 Spots in the EduSpots network, motivations may differ, but they are all connected by one goal: communities coming together to drive the change they want through education.
- Some teams prioritise responding to pressing community needs.
- Others focus on developing literacy, digital skills and nurturing active citizens.
- Many give back by dedicating their time and energy to Spot activities.
Yet, a common thread runs through them all: passion and dedication. In fact, three out of five Catalysts are driven by an unwavering belief in their Spot’s vision. Their “why” is what gets them out of bed every morning to serve.
For learners, Catalysts facilitate one or more of EduSpots’ four strands:
- DigiLit – advancing digital literacy
- EduKidz – supporting early childhood education
- EcoSTEM – fostering science, technology, engineering, and sustainability
- Ignite Equity – promoting inclusion and social justice
Through monthly coaching sessions, Catalysts gain the skills and insights needed to guide learners, while also sharpening their own knowledge and capacities.
Beyond this, every Catalyst participates in the Spot Lead strand, where they develop leadership and problem-solving skills to respond effectively to local challenges.
In responding to some of the challenges faced as Catalysts, Monica Turkson, Catalyst, Dadwen Spot, shared, “We always found a way to make things work. We improvised, we kept going”
This level of commitment, to community, self, and learners, can only be sustained by a powerful mix of intrinsic motivation and passion.
My belief is simple: each Catalyst has noticed a pattern that needs changing. They recognise that others see it too, and together they commit to making transformation possible. That’s how a Spot is born, through citizens ready to take responsibility for shaping their communities.
Beyond serving as a learning center, a Spot is a movement of people determined to respond to local needs while growing themselves in the process.
Felix Acheampong, Spot Lead, Asemkow Spot, reflected, “EduSpots has taught me more skills as a teacher than a classroom ever taught me.”
So, I ask you:
- Do you consider yourself a changemaker?
- Do you believe in uniting with others to drive positive change in your community?
If yes, this is your opportunity.
EduSpots is calling for new Spot applications. Click on the link below to apply or express your interest: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KY9YQ3S
For more information: https://eduspots.org/eduspots-is-expanding-we-are-looking-for-new-school-or-community-based-teams-to-join-the-network/
By: Isaac Kobby Ayibor – Communications & Digital Skills Manager
Email: iayibor@eduspots.org