Streets of Nampula become classrooms
In the bustling streets of Nampula, a man disregards the daily hustle and focuses on the mission of teaching and, through knowledge, transforming lives and illuminating the world.
His name is Alimo Mussa, a dedicated teacher who, in his own way, loves his neighbor and initiates a series of actions that have a social impact. Recently, Mozavibe had the honor of interviewing him, where he revealed that his mission is to teach children on the streets, facing challenges that few of us could imagine.
Alimo Mussa, a student of English Language Teaching, with additional training in the United States in Civic Engagement and Leadership Applied to Community Development, shared with us that his calling to teach on the streets came from a dream.
"I dreamt that I was teaching on the street, and after that dream, I felt restless," he revealed. This feeling only dissipated when he decided to pursue his purpose, teaching classes in the exact location depicted in the dream: the street.
Initially, the project faced various obstacles, with building trust with street children being one of the greatest challenges. To establish this bond, Alimo decided to experience the reality of these children: sharing meals, sleeping on the streets, and dedicating a significant amount of his time to them.
"This level of dedication and empathy helped to create a genuine connection,"he explained, allowing the children to begin to believe in his work and purpose. Currently, Alimo faces even more painful challenges, such as witnessing the daily reality of children on the streets, many of whom are hungry and living in precarious conditions.
"The anguish of seeing these children in these circumstances is overwhelming, but I remain firm in my goal of removing them from the streets, helping them overcome addictions, and providing them with a dignified life and education," he stated.
INITIATIVE GOES BEYOND TEACHING ACADEMIC SUBJECTS
Project Learn goes beyond just teaching academic subjects. Alimo and his team of six volunteers offer classes in various subjects, adapted to the context of the children, as well as leisure activities and sports.
There are several ways to teach and learn
Teaching methods are carefully thought out, incorporating motivation and various types of games, proving to be useful and quite effective. Additionally, the teacher recognizes the importance of teaching practical skills, such as electrical installation. It's a way to empower children for future job opportunities and life improvement.
Many of the students, ranging in age from 11 to 19 years old, who were previously unable to read or write, demonstrate skills in Portuguese and even English, thus demonstrating the positive impact of Project Learn on their lives. Alimo even shared success stories of Project Learn, such as the (re)integration of children into their respective families or orphanages.
The main goal of "Learn" is to overcome marginalization and illiteracy, as well as to combat alcohol consumption, drugs, and theft on the streets. His vision for the future is very ambitious and inspiring, as it seeks to expand the project to help more children. For this, he relies on community support and organizations.
ALSO TEACHES ONLINE CLASSES
In addition to working on the street, Alimo exercises his pedagogy in another way, by teaching English classes online and in person, contributing financially to Project Learn. His education and experience are essential to the success of the initiative.
Understanding the reality of street children to better assist them
He appeals to society not to ignore children on the streets and for parents and guardians to be more patient and attentive to the needs of their children. Alimo Mussa is a true hero, reminding us that with passion and determination, we can create significant changes, even in the face of the most challenging circumstances.
Project Learn is a symbol of hope and inspiration, highlighting that money should not be our only motivation.
(By Renaldo Manhice)
