United Airlines Partners with Slum2School Africa to Empower Over 1,000 Children in Nigeria
- Addressing Educational Challenges Amid Economic Hardship
As the new academic year commences, many families in underserved communities in Nigeria face significant economic challenges, making it difficult for children to return to school. Parents have expressed their concerns as numerous children were seen at home on the first day of school, lacking the necessary resources for their educational journey. This situation has contributed to an alarming increase in drop-out rates among primary and secondary school students.
In response to these pressing issues, United Airlines has joined forces with Slum2School Africa to provide vital support to marginalized children across remote villages and urban slums in Lagos, Nigeria. From September 11 to 13, 2024, a dedicated team from United Airlines, alongside volunteers from Slum2School, embarked on a transformative mission to distribute essential school supplies to these children.
- A Three-Day Journey of Hope and Support
Over the course of three impactful days, United Airlines management and staff from the United States, United Kingdom, Ghana, and Nigeria participated in this meaningful initiative. The team traveled across land and water to reach over a thousand children, delivering much-needed school supplies, including backpacks, exercise books, mathematical sets, and other learning materials to help them start the academic year on the right foot.
The first day kicked off in Makoko, a community where Slum2School Africa has supported over 23,000 children and families since 2012. The United Airlines team engaged with local schools and toured the community, an experience that left a lasting impression on participants like Jermell Stills, a Community Manager from the US.
- Overcoming Challenges in Remote Areas
On the second day, the team visited Saga Island in Epe, where they witnessed the daily struggles children face, including a challenging 35-minute trek to school, often wading through water barefoot. Despite these adversities, the children welcomed the team with joy, showcasing cultural performances that highlighted the community’s resilience and spirit. Their excitement was palpable as they received their new school supplies, eager to return to school fully prepared.
The final day took the team to Tarkwa Bay, where they were greeted with traditional dances and poetry performances from the children. Expressions of gratitude were heartfelt, with one student thanking the team not just for the supplies but for believing in their potential.
- Inspiring Change Through Education
Grace Harris, a member of the United Airlines team, reflected on the experience, noting the valuable learning opportunities provided by Slum2School. She emphasized the importance of empowering children with the right tools to help them achieve their aspirations. The event was not merely about distributing supplies; it fostered connections and mentorship, reinforcing the idea that education extends beyond the classroom.
By the end of the journey, the volunteers and partners felt a profound sense of accomplishment. Oluwatomi Bola-Sadipe, Country Sales Manager for Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa at United Airlines, expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the event, stating, “What seemed like a mission impossible is now a mission accomplished.”
- Continuing the Mission of Empowerment
Orondaam Otto, founder and Executive Director of Slum2School Africa, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the ongoing need for support. “We’ve touched many lives on this journey, but there’s still so much more to do,” he stated. “Let’s continue to come together, because there are millions of children waiting for their chance to be seen, heard, and supported.”
The collaboration between Slum2School and United Airlines serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that dedicated partnerships can have in equipping children with the tools they need for education and inspiring them to dream bigger.
