Annual review and outlook

2025 was a year of transformation for the school project in Gereba. The focus shifted noticeably from pure construction to the first actual use of the infrastructure. At the same time, the year was marked by challenges that required patience, cooperation, and trust.

A major setback was the severe landslide in August, triggered by heavy rainfall. The access road was impassable for several months, bringing all transport of materials and vehicles to a standstill. Although the resources were available, the project was halted for around four months – solely due to lack of accessibility. It was only after the end of the rainy season that the mayor and local authorities were able to repair the road and safely reopen it. This moment made it clear that the project is not being carried out in isolation, but is firmly anchored in local responsibility.

In December, the president of the foundation, Desta Kebede, visited the site in person. The visit clearly showed how much the school grounds have developed despite the delays. For the first time, a coherent, functioning school infrastructure is visible. The atmosphere on site was characterized by gratitude, hope, and the conviction that this place will change lives in the long term. This was symbolized by the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony prepared by the teachers and the warm welcome from the students.

Construction progress – The school is taking shape

Since the start of the project, it has been clear that sustainable education requires stable, functional, and long-term infrastructure. Despite the interruption caused by the landslide, significant milestones were achieved in 2025. The following have been completed or are nearing completion:

a two-story library building
four new classrooms
a double classroom
A spacious open classroom for flexible learning formats
the renovation of two existing school buildings
a completely new compost toilet block
a guest and teacher house with four rooms
an additional house for project management and coordination

These buildings have created a clearly structured school environment for the first time, facilitating learning, exchange, and development.

Sustainable furniture – bamboo as a local solution

In 2025, another important step toward sustainability was taken: for the first time, the company developed its own school furniture made from bamboo. Bamboo is abundant in the Kaffa region, grows quickly, is extremely robust, and can be processed by local craftsmen.

The first prototypes—chairs, benches, school desks, and bookshelves—are already in use. Students are currently testing them for comfort and stability. Their feedback is being incorporated directly into the final production process. The goal is to furnish the entire school with locally produced bamboo furniture in the first quarter of 2026, thereby creating sustainable value locally.

The first IT course – a historic moment

With the arrival of 30 refurbished laptops—a generous donation—a new chapter began for the young people in Gereba in November. Importing the laptops into Ethiopia involved a lot of bureaucracy, additional documents, and several checks, but the process was successfully completed.

In November, the first IT course in the village's history began. Around 20 students, both girls and boys, took part. For many, it was the first time they had created a document, saved files, or searched the internet. This moment was palpable for the entire community: digital education is no longer a thing of the future—it has become part of everyday life.

The next steps – From buildings to programs

With the construction of the infrastructure largely complete, attention is now turning to the heart of the vision: the educational programs. Over the coming months, programs will be developed in the areas of IT, entrepreneurship, permaculture, and practical crafts. The aim is not only to provide young people with theoretical training, but also to equip them with concrete skills for a self-determined life.

The school garden will be a central component. It has three clear objectives: to supply the school with food, to teach practical agricultural skills, and to generate income for the school's operations.

At the same time, two essential systems are being implemented: a solar power system to provide a stable power supply for the IT room, lighting, and security, as well as water treatment and reservoirs for hygiene, gardening, and long-term supply. This will make school operations independent, reliable, and expandable.

We are also in the final stages of selecting a project manager who will live on site permanently from 2026 and oversee the project on a daily basis. Their responsibilities will include coordinating all programs, supporting teachers, establishing and maintaining the school garden, and liaising between the school, the village, the authorities, and the foundation. This step marks the transition to a phase of continuous growth.

Thank you – Giving the gift of a shared future

What happens in Gereba is only possible thanks to the support of many dedicated people. Every contribution goes directly to education, infrastructure, and local programs. Investing in education strengthens an entire region—sustainably, long-term, and effectively.

It is now also possible to make donations conveniently via TWINT. Our website is also available entirely in English.

We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to all our supporters for accompanying us on this journey.

Update December 2025