Burkina Faso, one of the poorest countries in the world, is being dramatically affected by terrorist activity, particularly along its northern border with Mali and Niger. There are over 1 million internally displaced people, many of whom have fled to the larger towns in the north, where there is more effective government security.
Schools have been a particular target and over 2,200 of the 16,000 schools in Burkina Faso have closed. But in the midst of this turmoil, God is at work in schools, because after-school Bible clubs are now spreading throughout the country.
This is particularly remarkable as Burkina Faso is a secular state and religion is precluded within the curriculum. In a mainly Muslim nation, why do the authorities and headteachers permit these clubs?
Heads are shown the first two lessons to see the materials used. We explain how the Bible course helps children with their reading, vocabulary and comprehension and cultivates in them a desire to read. Any concern about the course being based on the Bible is allayed when we point out that the Bible teaches not only respect for parents, and teachers, but also good moral values and love for one’s neighbour – and even one’s enemy. Surely that is good for all children to learn?
And exam pass rates always improve in schools where we operate. Heads soon see how the clubs improve children’s attitude to schooling – and each other – as well as encouraging academic achievement. In addition, every participating school receives a free football (often they don’t have one), which is a great motivation when first introducing a Bible club to a new school. More than 400 schools ran clubs last year. This is expected to increase to nearly 600 this year, with 18,000 children studying the Scriptures.
The most wonderful aspect of this ministry is that children’s lives are being transformed; they are coming to faith and joining local churches.
