Callan students head for Kenya to bring hope - and 700 sports jerseys!

Justin Dermody, Lorraine O'Shea, Martina Griffin, Sarah McCarthy and Cian Ryan.
PICTURE: HARRY REID

The project is not a ‘holiday’ for the students, but is about their personal development. They take on a lot of responsibility and experience personal growth and skills development.

Links between the schools in Callan and Embulbul were first forged in 2017 when school trustees ERST put the local school in touch with the school in Kenya. Last year the Coláiste got in touch with the school principal in Embulbul to organise another trip.

Passports, visas and vaccinations have been confirmed and the students will fly out on March 30 to stay in the Embulbul area for a week. They will be based at the school but will also visit different centres and projects around the area with the aim of immersing themselves fully in the local culture.

While there they will consult with the local school staff on what project is best to benefit from the money raised. The Kenyan school largely depends on donations and they will be looking at sustainable projects, like a water project. The Kilkenny school hopes to leave a lasting legacy.

Thanks to all who sponsored the project, for their generosity and support: H and MV engineering, Cleere Sports, AIB, SuperValu Callan, Callan Co-op, Eamonn Maher Transport, The Edge Hair Studio, Grace Solicitors and Abbey Interiors.