By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
In a significant stride towards bolstering the educational infrastructure in Sierra Leone, Desert Flower Foundation has inaugurated the Dr. Manfred Educational Center at the St. Elizabeth Catholic Community in Aberdeen, Freetown. The ceremony took place on Monday, April 22nd, 2024, marking a pivotal moment in the pursuit of educational excellence in the region.
Named in honor of Dr. Manfred Jäger, the educational center stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of philanthropy and commitment to education. The realization of this project was made possible through the generous contribution of Dr. Jäger’s son, Christian Jäger, reflecting a deep-rooted dedication to the betterment of communities.
The project, spearheaded by Desert Flower Headquarters in Vienna, Austria, underscores a collaborative endeavour aimed at fortifying educational opportunities aligned with the vision of the Sierra Leonean Government and the Catholic community’s mission.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Rev. Fr. Peter A. Konteh, President of Desert Flower Africa Ltd and Executive Director of Caritas Freetown, expressed profound gratitude to all stakeholders involved in bringing the project to fruition. He emphasized that beyond the physical infrastructure, the center symbolizes a beacon of hope and transformative potential through education, echoing the collective commitment to societal progress and the eradication of harmful practices such as FGM.
Rev. Fr. Smart Nabie, the School Manager, conveyed heartfelt appreciation for the generous donation that underpins the establishment of the educational center in the Aberdeen community. Despite encountering challenges, including land acquisition and incomplete construction, he reiterated optimism regarding the timely completion of the project, reaffirming the importance of educational institutions in fostering community development and nurturing future generations.
Nourah Adama N. Ngobeh, the Local Unit Commander in Aberdeen, underscored the pivotal role of education in shaping individuals and communities, emphasizing the collaborative effort to create a safe and inclusive learning environment. She pledged ongoing support from law enforcement agencies to ensure the well-being and security of students and staff alike.
Walter Lutshchinger, Managing Director of Desert Flower Foundation in Austria, lauded the collaborative spirit and friendship that propelled the project forward, emphasizing the Foundation’s longstanding commitment to eliminating gender discrimination and promoting education and healthcare for women globally.
Christian Jäger, whose generosity made the educational center a reality, expressed profound gratitude and optimism for Sierra Leone’s future. He stressed the transformative power of quality education in transcending barriers and fostering social progress, underscoring the importance of investment in youth development.
The commissioning of the Dr. Manfred Educational Center stands as a testament to the transformative potential of collective action and philanthropy in advancing educational opportunities and fostering community development in Sierra Leone. As the center embarks on its journey to empower generations to come, it represents a beacon of hope and promise for a brighter, more inclusive future through education.
