UNICEF National Ambassador Nash visits recycled plastic classrooms

When Nash walks into the courtyard of the Bromakoté Public Elementary School, a cohort of children nearly jump on her while chanting her name. “Nash! Nash! Nash!” It is impossible for the rapper, UNICEF National Ambassador and darling of the Ivorian youth to go unnoticed, even in this remote region in the north-west of the country. 

Coulibaly Ahmed, the school’s principal, is proud to welcome a star to his school and happy to see his students running around and being so happy. What makes him even prouder are the new recycled plastic classrooms that his establishment now has. “As an educator, it is a pleasure for me to teach in this school. All the students want to be in this school because the environment is healthy, and the material is adequate. Some out-of-school children come to enrol themselves on their own, without their parents,” says Ahmed. 

Thanks to funding from UNICEF in Spain, the construction of this school has brought enormous changes in the lives of the people of Bromakoté. Thanks to these buildings, 300 children will be able to go to school. 

This is what Nash came to see. She wants to understand the impact of this project on children and the population. It is with emotion that she listens to the principal of the school testify: 

“As a teacher, I am completely satisfied, because classrooms are no longer overcrowded. There used to be over 80 students per class. Thankfully, this is now ancient history. The children react much better in class and are more motivated.” 

During the class visit, Nash does not hesitate to joke with the students. Amid bursts of laughter, she takes the opportunity to ask them what they think about their new classrooms. Aboubacar, who is 13 years old and in fifth grade, is quick to answer: “I would like to ask UNICEF and its partners to help all the schools in the region. My friends from other neighbourhoods and cities should be able to experience the joy that I feel today. Since I have been in my new classroom, my love for school has only grown and I am now happy to come every morning.” 

Almost two hours have now passed since Nash came to this school. As she says goodbye, she gives her impressions:

“The classrooms are cooler and there is more space. Maybe people may not realise it, but this kind of little details can change everything in children’s lives. This can make them love school, help them learn and push them to achieve their dreams. I have no doubt that many of the future leaders of our country will come out of these classrooms. This project should be replicated all over the country.”