NFTO donates $4,000 to Sion Hill Adult Education programme

The National Fair Trade Organization (NFTO) has contributed $4,000 to the Sion Hill Adult Education programme. The cheque was handed over to teachers of the Sion Hill Adult Education programme on Tuesday, 5th May, 2009 at the NFTO’s office at Paul’s Avenue.{{more}}

Speaking on behalf of the Sion Hill Adult Education Programme, Treasurer and Math Teacher, Bernadette Latchman thanked the Fairtrade organization for their donation, saying it would go a long way to improve the project. Latchman also stated that there is a need for the project in the Sion Hill community as it helps both adults and youths to become more educated.

The $4,000 will be used as a stipend for teachers and to provide materials for classes. Approximately 18 students are enrolled in the programme, which is offered free to the students. Social Studies, English, Math and Spanish are currently taught.

Speaking on behalf of the Fair Trade Organization, Chair of Projects Nioka Abbott said that “education is a top priority on our agenda.” Abbott related that she knows of programmes in other villages where the students pay the teachers for the classes. “Students want to take the opportunity, but the money is not there,” she said.

Abbott also has hopes of giving contributions to other education programmes. “Based on the progress we see (with Sion Hill programme) we plan to extend it to other programmes,” she said.