"An exceptional case," Ibrahim was determined to get an education

At age 22, Ibrahim, who was recently enrolled in the Child Reintegration Centre, is much older than the typical new student.  Program Manager David Musa explains that "Ibrahim's case was exceptional."  When Ibrahim was a teenager, his mother, the family's breadwinner, suddenly died. His father was very ill and unable to provide for his son.  Ibrahim found himself alone and without the means to stay enrolled in school.  He dropped out and began working as a commercial motorcycle driver to support himself, ferrying passengers in between villages. 

Eventually, Ibrahim moved to Bo to live with an uncle, but was still unable to afford school fees, as his uncle was caring for many family members (a common scenario in Sierra Leone.)  As the years went by, Ibrahim never lost his desire to get an education.  He heard about the CRC's support for impoverished children and requested help.  In spite of his age the CRC offered Ibrahim enrollment, and he is currently attending YMCA Kandeh Secondary School.  

"Based on his story, we decided to enroll him," David says.  "He took the BECE but his grade was not that good, so he is taking the exam again this academic year."  The CRC is determined to help Ibrahim finish his education, and against all odds, he is determined to succeed.