On The Ground - Jan/Feb ‘25
In January, the Hebrone Community Learning Circle, composed of teachers, community members, and the MR team, came together to reflect on the past year. They highlighted key achievements in sustainability and cooperative learning, such as improvements in waste management, cleanliness, and hygiene practices around the school and playground. Students have gained confidence in their learning, reading, and public speaking, with student-centered approaches empowering them to drive positive change within their community. Bamboo benches were built to provide additional seating in classrooms, and students have actively contributed to improving local toilets. These efforts caught the attention of UNICEF, which led to the installation of a well and modern toilets at Hebrone School. The community's commitment to sustainability and collaboration continues to grow, with everyone working together to create a better environment for both students and the broader community.
As the new year unfolds, students have begun brainstorming initiatives to benefit both Hebrone School and the surrounding community. One idea is to address the power of peer influence by promoting positive behaviors and engaging parents to support at-risk youth. Another focus is raising awareness about first aid practices, particularly injury prevention and quick response techniques in emergencies. Additionally, students are exploring the possibility of partnering with a local doctor to research sickle cell disease, offer encouragement to those affected, refer individuals to healthcare services, and investigate traditional remedies. These initiatives will empower students to lead by example and make a lasting impact on their community.
The Malembe Rise staff is also developing student-centered approaches to accommodate the growing number and age diversity of students attending the CoL. Recognizing the varying needs of different age groups, the team plans to implement a station-based learning model. Each station will focus on specific skills and topics, allowing students to engage with subjects at their level, collaborate with peers, and apply what they’ve learned through hands-on activities. This approach is designed to help students of all ages engage meaningfully with the material and connect with one another in a dynamic and interactive way.
