We are grateful to share a hopeful update regarding the secondary school project at Our Lady of Fatima in the remote village of Okon. For several years, the foundation for this school sat waiting; though the vision was clear, the necessary funds were not yet available to move forward. Today, through the generosity of our supporters and funds provided by the Missions Office USA, we are joyfully witnessing the walls of the first floor rise.
A Season of Progress
The timing of this work is a blessing of providence. We are currently in the dry season, which is the ideal time for construction in this region. In the rainy season, the remote roads leading to Okon often become flooded and impassable, making it impossible to transport materials. Because of the current favorable weather, construction workers are making steady progress, utilizing concrete to secure the first-floor walls.
A Vision for Technical Education and Growth
While this project remains a simple and vital facility for the community, it is built with a deep commitment to the future of our youth. Unlike the current school building, the new facility will be equipped for electricity, powered by a generator or potential future solar panels, enabling it to function as a technical secondary school. This infrastructure will prepare our students to engage safely and knowledgeably with the modern world, helping them secure dignified paths to employment as they graduate. We also look forward to providing clean, running water by digging an on-site borehole to serve the needs of the students and staff. More than just a structure, this school will stand as a beacon of resilience and growth for the families of Okon, continuing the Church’s mission of formation and service.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
We hope to complete the walls of the first floor within the next few months. As more funds become available, the project will continue to the second floor, eventually moving toward interior finishing and painting.
We extend our sincere thanks to the many partners and benefactors whose prayers and financial support have turned this stalled foundation into a rising reality. Your commitment ensures that the Church continues its mission of formation and service in the most remote areas of the Diocese of Ikot Ekpene.
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The new images below showcase the current construction progress and the hard work being done on-site. New images will be added to this album as progress continues. You might also want to read our previous update on this project.
To help us reach the next phase of this project, we invite you to support our mission projects or join our email list for future updates.
