Wodome is a farming community with a population of over five hundred people. It is located at Agormor-Zemu Road in the Akatsi South municipality, precisely in the Volta Region.

The name “Wodome” means “center,” which connects nine other communities. Learners  from these communities walk miles to school everyday. Even though the main occupation of the people is farming, they do not want their wards to be like them but better. They  enroll them in schools and provide for them in the best way possible.

In November 2023, Mr. Gabriel Katabo, a native of the town and a teacher (EduSpots Catalyst) at Atsata Bame, visited the school and noticed reading difficulties in the learners. He introduced the school to EduSpots, which was fully accepted by the community, learners, the chief, SMC, PTA, assemblyman, and head teacher of the school. Going forward, it is hoped and believed that learners will be greatly impacted.

Through community engagement, together with PTA, SMS, traditional leaders, assemblyman, teachers, parents, and other community members, Gabriel was invited to educate them about EduSpots. After the engagement, they asked Gabriel to apply to join the EduSpots network, and an interview with the EduSpots team was held as well as a Spot visit. The community members and some volunteer teachers were involved.

It is hoped that over time, the learners’ improved reading skills will inspire the entire community, both local and distant, to actively support and assist our learners in building a brighter future.

In April 2024, a team of five teachers, including the head teacher and two community volunteers, joined an EduSpots Academy and were inducted through this online session. With the support of the stakeholders of the school, PTA/SMS, headteacher and the community, they converted an uncompleted and unused office into a ‘Spot’ with a ceiling, burglar proof, wiring, and furniture that can accommodate at least 20 learners at a time. The Spot also received two tablets, one MTN router wifi, and 75 books from EduSpots at the start of the Spot. The challenges faced so far are: the space is small and cannot accommodate some classes with 40 to 45 learners at a time; there are inadequate shelves for materials; and more books or learning materials are also needed at the spot.

For activities, the nurses were invited to talk to the adolescent boys and girls on menstrual hygiene, 50 pieces of pads were given to the adolescent girls by an NGO to support them. Revenue is also being generated from a sachet water Ignite Equity period project. Numeracy and literacy sessions are held at the school, which involves the EduKidz and EduLit clubs. When the C.E.O. of EduSpots visited the school, it was a wonderful session. All members of the Spot were involved.

You’ll observe a change in learners’ free time habits, as they now spend their time studying at the library. The library is open throughout the school day, and whenever learners have free time or are not with their teachers, they gather there to engage in reading and research using tablets.

During their club sections, they play literacy games, math games for kids, and learn empowerment themes. Teachers now have access to a wide range of books, research materials, and online databases, enhancing their teaching and learning experiences. The Spot provides a safe and supportive environment for children and teenagers, reducing their exposure to negative influences. It’s clear that learners are positively impacted by this environment.

A well-equipped library and resource center would be of immense value to the learners, particularly those who are unable to attend school due to financial constraints. By investing in more computers and implementing comprehensive digital literacy programs, we can significantly improve computer literacy rates and bridge the digital divide. It is hoped that these efforts will cultivate future leaders and responsible citizens

Gabriel, the founder of the Spot, commented: “Since establishing our Spot, I have witnessed remarkable transformations. Teachers and learners now have enhanced access to educational resources, enriching the learning experience. Our Spot has truly become a cornerstone of our community, promoting lifelong learning and improving the quality of life for all.”