Aya means “fern”. In Ghanaian Adinkra symbolism, it represents endurance, perseverance and resourcefulness. For Project Aya, this meaning recognises the determination of children and their communities while reminding us of the support needed to help that determination grow.

Project Aya focuses on improving access to education for children in rural Ghana, beginning with Busua Methodist Primary School and Nursery in the Western Region. It grew from the founder’s experience teaching in Busua, where she learned how financial pressures can interrupt a child’s education.

The founder spoke with teachers and members of the local community to understand the challenges families face and ensure Project Aya addresses the needs they identified.

School fees, sports fees, examination fees, uniforms and books add up. Children will be sent home if fees are paid late or left unpaid, or if they do not have the correct uniform. Each absence means missed lessons, and repeated interruptions can leave gaps in learning that become increasingly difficult to close.

Food is another daily cost. Unlike the free school meal support available to eligible children in the UK, families at the school in Busua have no equivalent provision to rely on. Although some schools in Ghana receive school meals support, it has not reached every rural school. Without money for food, children can spend the school day hungry. No child should have to learn on an empty stomach.

Working alongside the school and families, we aim to help cover:

• School fees, sports fees and examination fees.
• Exercise books, textbooks, pens, pencils and other classroom materials.
• School uniforms and shoes.
• School bags.
• Food money or contributions towards school meals.

Support will depend on each child’s needs and the funds available, with costs confirmed by the school. Our goal is to provide ongoing help across school terms, preventing financial difficulties from becoming lasting gaps in a child’s education.

No child should miss school or go hungry because their family is struggling. Your donation can help meet these costs.