In Yaoundé, on September 23, 2024, the Promhandicam Association, known for its dedication to the education and rehabilitation of people living with disabilities, received a crucial boost from the ASAF Cameroon Foundation. The foundation, led by Eran Moas, provided scholarships and school supplies worth over 25 million CFA francs to disabled and disadvantaged students.
This act of generosity marked a key moment in the foundation’s broader mission to promote inclusive education in Cameroon.
The event took place at the headquarters of Promhandicam, located in the Mimboman 2 neighborhood in Yaoundé, and drew a host of distinguished guests. These included the Deputy Sub-prefect of Yaoundé 4, government officials, and the local chief of Mimboman 2, all highlighting the significance of this gesture for the local community.
For the students of Promhandicam, who suffer from a range of disabilities—such as visual impairments, hearing loss, and autism—this donation represents much more than material support. It’s a vital step towards ensuring that they have equal access to education, a right that is often denied to disabled children in many parts of the world, particularly in under-resourced regions.
Addressing Both Educational and Social Barriers
The donation, which included backpacks, water bottles, educational games, and specialised school supplies, aims to help disabled children who also face challenging social and economic conditions. “Living with a disability encompasses various challenges, from visual impairments and hearing difficulties to autism,” explained Kimberley Ntsimi, a representative of ASAF Cameroon. “These children, beyond their disabilities, often live in conditions of extreme poverty.
This is why the founder, Mr. Eran Moas, decided that we should not only shield them from the impact of their disabilities but also address the social constraints that prevent them from accessing a dignified education.”
The ceremony was infused with emotion, as children performed musical interludes, showcasing their talents and resilience. For Paul Bernard Noah, the General Director of Promhandicam, the support from ASAF Cameroon is a game-changer: “I would like to thank the ASAF founder for this grand gesture of kindness and generosity towards the children living with disabilities at Promhandicam. This donation, valued at over 25 million CFA francs, will go towards purchasing educational materials and providing 50 scholarships for children living with disabilities at our inclusive school and specialized education center. ASAF Cameroon is a valuable humanitarian partner, and as we say, when you thank someone, you’re also asking them to return.”
ASAF Cameroon’s donation goes beyond just providing supplies; it is part of a long-term strategy to improve the infrastructure at Promhandicam. Part of the funds will be used to upgrade classrooms and purchase specialized equipment tailored to the unique needs of the students. This investment reflects the foundation’s commitment to creating an educational environment that is not just inclusive but also equipped to handle the specific challenges faced by children with disabilities.
Encouraging Excellence Among Students and Educators
In a bid to motivate both students and staff, two special awards were presented during the ceremony: one to Christian A. Oyono for being the best employee and another to Rachelle Betsogo for being the best teacher of the 2023-2024 academic year. According to Paul Bernard Noah, these awards are intended to encourage outstanding performance among staff members who go above and beyond to ensure that children at Promhandicam receive the best possible care and education.
The Deputy Sub-prefect of Yaoundé 4, Emmanuel Ndong, also took the opportunity to inspire the students, urging them to see their disabilities not as limitations but as strengths. He encouraged them to make the most of the educational resources provided and to stay clear of the negative influences that often plague youth today, especially urging them to use technology responsibly.
A Lasting Partnership for Inclusive Education
Promhandicam, founded in 1975, has long been a pioneer in supporting the rehabilitation and socio-economic integration of people with disabilities in Cameroon. Through its specialized facilities and dedicated programs, the association has provided vital support to children and adults alike, ensuring that disability does not become a barrier to education, employment, or social inclusion. The partnership with ASAF Cameroon further strengthens its capacity to make a difference in the lives of those it serves.
ASAF Cameroon, for its part, has gained a reputation for its humanitarian and social initiatives.
With this latest donation, the foundation is not only helping to fund scholarships but also contributing to the enhancement of learning environments at Promhandicam. By investing in classroom materials and equipment, ASAF Cameroon is ensuring that the children have the tools they need to succeed academically, despite the challenges they face.
This event marks another milestone in the collaboration between these two organizations.
Together, they are working to improve the living conditions and educational prospects of children with disabilities, offering them a brighter future.
Looking Forward to a New School Year
As the new school year begins for thousands of children across Cameroon, the students at Promhandicam have been given the gift of hope and opportunity. Thanks to the generosity of ASAF Cameroon, they can look forward to a year filled with possibility, knowing that they are
supported by a community that values their potential. For many of these students, this donation is not just about receiving material goods—it is about being seen, acknowledged, and given a fair chance at success.
In a world where disability too often leads to marginalization, initiatives like this are vital. They remind us that inclusive education is not just a goal but a necessity, and that every child, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to learn and thrive.
