Why Bishop Forson School? On our first visit it was immediately apparent that BFSC was a forward thinking school. Over time the relationship has developed into a partnership. We are happy to work with a school that is dedicated to continual improvement in education and care of the students. We help the school develop creative programs, educational programs such as pen-pals, aid in teacher training, have a voice in various policy issues and help to maintain the library and computer lab which were donated by Pagus supporters.

What communities do we serve? Torkor is the local fishing village by the Volta Lake. Students come from there, from villages across the lake and from the nearby town of Kpando and its surrounding area. Transportation via the school's bus is provided for students and teachers.

What happens after students conclude their education at BFSC? Three classes have graduated and been admitted to high schools and we are now developing a scholarship program for those who can't afford high school.

How are children selected? The process of selecting students for the program continues to evolve as we better understand the needs of the community and what does and does not work. Different criteria are used depending on the age of the child and what can be ascertained about them and their family. Certain children are admitted to get them off of the street and to simply provide them a chance. We may or may not know how those children will adapt to the school and to their studies. Other factors we consider are family/living situation, financial need, academic potential, overall character, and a desire to be in school.

What information do sponsors get about their child?

Background Generally speaking sponsors are informed about the age, date of birth and class their child is in. We also share any other background information we have on the family, academic achievement and character of the child.

Letters All sponsored students are required to write letters to their sponsors three times a year. We require this so that children might begin to understand that someone cares enough about them to hear what they have to say, and so that they can have the experience of writing informal letters. We ask that sponsors understand this is a big stretch for the children. In school they taught to follow strict guidelines so sharing their thoughts and experiences on paper is a leap for most of them.  

Reports Sponsors receive report cards at the conclusion of each of the three terms. These report cards are very different than what we are used to; the grading system is more like the English one. It is very rigid and As are rare. Teacher comments often seem off base, too. This is something we continue to try and improve.

Photos We send sponsors a photo at the start of the school year. When possible, we also send photos when the child receives a gift, or if a volunteer catches them on camera.  

Are sponsors required to communicate with their children? Sponsors are encouraged to write to their child, but we understand that not all sponsors wish to develop a relationship. There is no need to worry about this; we (and the children) are grateful for the gift of sponsorship and it is considered an added bonus when sponsors write or send photos. Letters can be emailed (childname@pagusafrica.org) or mailed to: Bishop Forson School Complex PMB 11 Kpando-Torkor, Volta Region Ghana, West Africa

Are sponsors asked to give additional funding? No! We will inform a sponsor if their child is experiencing problems with their health or any other serious issues, in case a sponsor wants to help, but we never ask for, nor do we expect, anyone to cover additional costs.

What about gifts? For those sponsors who want to give a gift to their child, we recommend waiting until we have a representative on the ground that can either carry it with them, or purchase items with gifted money. We prefer gifts of money since that allows us to purchase those things the child most wants/needs. The most common requests are for textbooks, notebooks, new uniforms or school jerseys and various personal items such as shoes, soap, etc. Sometimes children request that the money goes towards a field trip, vacation classes, or extra food from the canteen. Please note that we are trying to foster self-reliance and pride in the child (as opposed to entitlement). We often require that the child 'earn' their gift and we always ask the child to write a thank you letter. Of course it is not a perfect system, but we do our best!

What does a sponsorship cost? Day school sponsorships cost $300 per child per year and boarding school costs $480 per year. Some children require boarding because of problems in their homes. Their motto: Futur Assuré. A solid educational foundation of today is a solid assurance of a better and a secured future (Future Assured)."

Sponsorships help provide:

• Tuition and related expenses to attend the Bishop Forson School
• Two meals per day
• Transportation to and from school if required.
• Health insurance, transportation to medical facilities and other support with medical issues when they arise.
• Extra attention to academic and social development