Building a Path to Education for At-Risk Youth

Learning continues when school takes a holiday

The education component of our MindLeaps program is vital to our goal of preparing children and youth to achieve self-reliance. After successfully completing our Dance & Data program, children are sponsored to be enrolled in school during the academic year. During the summer holiday, when formal schooling takes a break, we know the importance of keeping children active and engaged, so they stay focused on their studies and also have fun.

In Rwanda and Guinea, children and youth come to our centers during the summer break to attend classes in English, French and IT, as well as catch-up classes for those needing additional tutoring. They also take part in fun activities like dance, art, reading groups and sports. The meal program provided is also important to ensuring that our kids are getting proper nutrition.

Summer innovations in Mauritania

In July of this year, MindLeaps launched its first summer program in Mauritania. This means that, in collaboration with our local partner, SOS Pairs Educateurs, classes and activities will be provided to students year round. Keeping students engaged during the summer will also help maintain school retention rates when the new academic year starts in October.

Summer activities are varied to engage students and include IT classes, soccer, theater and drama, dance, and movie time. The Lion King was a particular favorite among the kids! Each day, up to 80 children and youth are participating in activities, as well as having meals. 

As part of the summer program, every two weeks, there is a special event organized to celebrate the children.  Events include dance and theater performances and present themes central to the lives of young people, such as early marriage issues affecting girls. 

The MindLeaps summer programs are keeping our kids involved and excited about learning, while having summer holiday fun as they play, study and exercise their creativity together!