What is Classrooms for Africa (C4A)?
Classrooms for Africa is a realistic, positive approach to the ongoing social economic problems that plaque sub-Saharan Africa. We believe that by focusing on the education of future generations we can make a significant difference not only in the lives of individuals, but also in the community. Many organizations working in Africa and other developing areas make the same claim. What makes Dunamis different is the way in which we approach the task, the accountablity instilled in the process and the outcomes achieved. A solid governance model has been created with extemely low administrative costs - about 95% of funds donated to C4A are actually used for building projects. Working in part with local partners, we have developed a system that ensures funds are tracked and building progress monitored. The net result is a program that is highly effective in maximizing the use of donated funds.
The cost of delivering a single, highly functional, life-changing classroom for 30+ African children is on average $8,000 Canadian. Dunamis is able to deliver tremendous value for every dollar received, providing thousands of childen with access to adequate classroom space. The result, when this is combined with the teacher training that is part of every C4A project, is that the next generation has the opportunity for a radically better life.
What is our vision?
Our vision is that over the next ten years over 10,000 children will, as a result of the program, receive a quality values-based education in adequate facilities. This can be accomplished through the construction of three hundred new classrooms and the training of the teachers who will be working in these classrooms. Assuming an average cost of $8,000 per classroom, our budget forecast is $2.4 million Canadian. Location and cost of building materials effect costs; classrooms can cost $6,000 to $10,000.
What is Dunamis Education Society (DES)?
Dunamis Education Society is a Canadian non-profit society started in 2007 which seeks to:
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Identify opportunities for enhancing Christian education globally through staffing, consultation and practical projects.
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Work with other agencies and support groups to acquire funding
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Provide project management and consultation services
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Provide opportunities for Canadians to be involved with educational and education-related projects globally on a
- full-time or short-term basis
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Visit the DES website for more information click here
Why the name Dunamis?
"Dunamis" is a Greek word and it is the root for words such as: dynamite, dynamic and dynamo. It means divine or super "power". This "power" is the inspiration behind our theme: "The Power of One (Classroom) to Make a Difference". We believe that values-based, Christian education is the key to improving children's lives and changing society - making a difference one classroom at a time.
What is the relationshop between C4A and DES?
C4A is one of the ministries of Dunamis Education Society (DES). The Board of DES is the Board for C4A. DES issues the tax-receipts for all donations received.
What is the connection with the Association of Christian Schools International (ASCI)?
In North America our link is primarly with ACSI Western Canada although we do have links with other schools outside of the region and the association. Many Christian schools have included C4A in their annual outreach programs and at the three teacher conferences held in the region each year, the offering goes to C4A. We work very closely in partnership with ACSI in South Africa and through their Africa office into other countries on the continent. This is a vital relationship when it comes to evaluating and monitoring projects and in providing teacher training.
What countries does C4A currently operate in?
We realize the needs are great throughout Africa but we had to start somewhere. The area stretching from Sudan down to South Africa was chosen ass our initial focus because it is an area we know well, it is an area of great need and it is an area where we have a network of partners we can work with in monitoring projects and providing teacher traning. The fact that English is the primary "unifying" language throughout the area is an added advantage both logistically and in providing training. As resources and funds expand, we hope to add other areas of Africa to the program.
How does a school/organization receive a C4A grant?
To qualify for a grant, schools/organizations must submit a completed application form (online - click here or download the PDF version - click here), and must meet the criteria outlined on this website including: have a clear vision for Christian education in their community; have a proven record of being able to financially operate a school; be set up as a not for profit group; have a secure lease, or own the land, on which the school is situated; be able to contribute to the project either financially or by giving time and labour; provide references. C4A reviews and processes applications and evaluates them for approval. When funds are available, approved applicants must enter into a contract with C4A and agree to certain conditions. A project timeline is required and arrangements made to monitor progress.
How are projects monitored?
Every contract has accountability built into it. Funds are released in installments based on the approved budget. Building progress and expenditures are tracked and verified before each installment is released. In most cases a C4A staff member or representative visits the project during the building process. The project supervisor is required to provide electronic updates of the progress.
What happens when the project is completed?
Upon completion of the project a full report, including photographs, is required for final approval and sign off. C4A arranges to have a plaque prepared for mounting on the building. If possible, C4A or a representative is present at the official opening of the facility. Photographs of the plaque, building and opening are sent to donors.
What about donors?
The entire C4A initiative is donor driven. Donors fall into three categories: the Christian school community of WEstern CAnada (we hope over the next year to expand to Eastern Canada); individual donors who hear of the initiative and want to become involved; other organization such as churches etc.
Donors or groups who give over $5,000 to one project are mentioned on the plaque installed on the building at the conclusion of the project.
If you are interested in being a part of the classrooms for Africa initiative or have quuestions, please email here.
To download an information brochure (pdf file) click here.
T0 donate now, please use the Donate Now button at the bottom right of this page. All Canadian donations are tax-receiptable.
Please consider investing in the future of school children in Africa!