Last year, the main fundraising activity was the sponsored walk from Bradford to Scunthorpe, which, if we include the donation by Scunthorpe United chairman Peter Swann, raised the bulk of the total of £2700 before the visit to Zimbabwe in September 2019.
This years campaign is more varied. A number of smaller, different things are hopefully going to raise plenty for the cause. One of those has already been announced, and is under way – the Author losing weight. Donations have begun already, and so far we are up to £100 this year.
Once more fan groups of Scunthorpe United are organising to help again this year…an initiative from one Iron fan is starting to gain traction. Later this week I will reveal all, as I am getting the idea off the ground and will be launching a publicity campaign behind it.
Here are the things we are raising money for this year:
Internet: The first few computers delivered in September will come into their own once the internet is available. It offers students and teachers access to so much more information, advice, and educational material.
Printer and paper: With a lack of available text books, then once internet is set up then a printer for each school will be useful, so they can print out copies of relevant material, e.g. things like past exam papers.
Security: Both schools will need additional, improved security for the rooms in which the computers will be used. Better burglar bars on the windows and additional door security is needed.
More computers: In order to offer formal IT lessons, each school needs at least 10 computers. Currently they both have 5, so extra ones are needed. This will raise another question though – electricity supply. At present the supply is irregular, and both rely on solar power during the day.
Text books: It is sad to see that even now 30 years on from my time as a teacher at Pakati Secondary school, there are too few text books for the number of students.
Desks/seating: As with books, not enough desks and/or seats for the students. On top of that, there is now a requirement for seats with back support for the students.
The challenge is on to help Pakati schools again this year.
