The day started bright and early as Clare & I left our hostel at 6:45am. We rode with the students to the School of St. Yared and attempted to help the students with their physics and chemistry homework. Compass’ sessions started with answering anonymous questions that were asked from the previous sessions. We had lots of questions about periods, the digestive system and kangaroos! We then discussed the importance of hygiene, how to handwash, and some basic first aid. We did this by simulating a car accident with the students, and each student got to practice checking for danger, sending for help, and splinting and putting a sling on their peers.
This afternoon was spent profiling for Hope for Children. With a translator, we visited students’ homes and learnt about their life, and the impact the School of St Yared has had on them and their families. Profiling is essential for students to attend St Yared as they come from the poorest families in Addis Ababa, and are sponsored to attend the school. With over 4000 applicants, the school only has capacity for 140 students. It is this education and three meals a day that that empower the students to realise their inherent potential and break the cycle of poverty.
