NGO to Start Computer Project For Schools

SANKOFA Foundation, a Holland-based Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), which aims at assisting developmental activities in Ghana as well as promoting good relations between Ghana and The Netherlands, is about to begin a computer project for Ghanaian schools.

According to the founder of the NGO, Mr. George Duncan, all schools in Ghana are eligible but that selection would be based on merit.

Speaking in an interview with the Chronicle from the Foundation's headquarters in The Hague, Duncan said schools which are interested in the project should visit their website at www.sankofa.nl and download application forms.

"Sankofa is working on a computer project in Ghana which aims at helping to bridge the digital divide. Internet should be made available for schools.

The aim of Sankofa is to work together with other organizations/foundations in Holland and Ghana," he said.

In another development, Sankofa is making significant contribution to the celebration of the ongoing "300 years of Ghana-Dutch relations" in Holland.

As part of their contribution, the Foundation organized 10 days of Ghanaian festivals at a Museum in The Hague between November 2 and 11, this year.

The 10-day festival showcased Ghanaian soap operas and performances from the National Dance Company from Accra .

According to Duncan, there was also a photo exhibition which showcased collections of Ghanaian and Dutch artists.

The artists included Nicholas Kowalski, Augustine Goka, Samuel Lovi and Kwame Akoto. Ghanaian films and music were also showcased and visitors were treated to different kinds of Ghanaian dishes and drinks.

There was also special activities for school children.

Duncan said the festival was sponsored and participated by The City of The Hague, NCDO, Novib, VSB Fund, and the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He also praised the Dutch Embassy in Accra for being very helpful to them.

The founder of Sankofa also disclosed that the Foundation was working on a film project which will feature Ghanaians in The Netherlands.

He said the film will be released next year.

"We are concerned about promoting the integration of Ghanaians in The Netherlands and at the same time also helping to improve the position of Ghanaians and help to promote Ghanaian culture in this country", he said.

Asked about the membership of the Foundation, Duncan said Sankofa's members consist of enthusiastic volunteers with special interest in Ghanaians living in The Netherlands.

The Foundation has diverse membership with people born in Ghana and Surinam. One of the most distinguished Surinam members is Ricardo Lemmer.