On Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 2 PM (UTC+1 WAT), Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation hosted a seminar aimed at showcasing the foundation’s mission, its innovative education initiative Betta Place, and discussing future prospects and partnership opportunities for its medium- and long-term activities. Themes Discussed The seminar highlighted the foundation’s core focus on education and shared the tangible impact of its initiatives since its inception. The presentation provided an in-depth overview of the challenges rural education faces, particularly in the context of the growing effects of climate change. The connection between education and environmental sustainability emerged as a top priority for building a brighter future in Cameroon and the broader Sub-Saharan African region. Spotlight on the Betta Place Project The Betta Place initiative was a central focus of the discussions. Participants were introduced to the project’s scale, objectives, and milestones already achieved. Emphasis was placed on breaking the cycle of social inequality by supporting young beneficiaries through innovative and inclusive approaches. A Holistic Vision for Beneficiaries Beyond education, the foundation reaffirmed its commitment to holistic child development. Key themes included health and hygiene, environmental protection, and arts and culture. These integrated areas of focus are designed to equip beneficiaries with the skills and tools to become thriving, responsible citizens. Participants and Event Highlights The event saw over 30 registrations, with 20 attendees actively participating, alongside foundation members. The participants showed great enthusiasm, raising insightful questions and offering constructive feedback. These engaging exchanges not only enhanced understanding of the foundation’s goals but also identified potential collaboration opportunities to expand its impact. A Vision for the Future Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to all attendees for their presence and contributions. Encouraged by the feedback received, the foundation aims to host more seminars to rally greater support for its initiatives. United by the goal of building a better future for the Future Heroes, the foundation is prepared to tackle the challenges of 2025 and beyond. Stay Connected To stay updated on the activities of Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation, follow us on our social media platforms. Discover our initiatives, upcoming projects, and events! Learn more about the foundation’s history and its innovative solutions. Look out for our 2024 Annual Report, which will be available on our blog in January 2025. Follow our pages closely to be among the first to access it. Together, let’s build a brighter future for our Future Heroes!
Betta Place: Moving Forward, Building Futures
At Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation, we’re thrilled to share exciting updates about the next steps in the Betta Place Project. What started as a bold vision to transform the lives of young Cameroonians is now evolving into something even bigger (learn more about the initiation phase of the Betta Place Project). Betta Place is more than an education program; it’s a movement to empower future leaders, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and resilience they need to tackle challenges like climate change and inequality. Our mission is simple but powerful: to help young people thrive in a changing world while giving them the tools to create positive change in their communities. Education in Rural Cameroon: The Challenge We’re Tackling For many children in Cameroon’s rural areas, school is a luxury they can’t afford. Only 58% of kids regularly attend school, with girls being hit the hardest. Economic struggles and traditional norms often keep girls at home, while climate-related disasters like floods and droughts pull children away from classrooms to help their families survive. But these challenges are not the end of the story—they’re why Betta Place exists. We’re closing the education gap and giving kids the resources and skills they need to overcome barriers. Learn more about the context of education in rural Cameroon and impact of climate change. The Betta Place Vision We believe in a future where every child has the chance to succeed. Betta Place is about building that future, step by step. Here’s how: Education: We cover school fees, provide supplies, and offer tutoring to keep kids in school. Sustainability: Young people learn the importance of solidarity and passing knowledge to the next generation. Sustainable Development: Through hands-on activities, children explore sustainable practices that fit their communities. Empowerment: We prepare them for the future with training in innovative trades and climate resilience. What’s Next for Betta Place? We’re diving into activities that go beyond the classroom, bringing education to life: Workshops That Inspire From climate change awareness to first aid training, these sessions build practical skills. We’re also focusing on hygiene, sanitation, art, and culture—because education is about more than just academics. Discover our Initiation Workshops! Building Sustainable Gardens School and kitchen gardens aren’t just about planting vegetables—they’re teaching tools for sustainable agriculture and a source of food for communities. Passing the Torch Our mentorship program, « Each One Teach One, » ensures older participants share their knowledge with the next generation, spreading empowerment and resilience. Skills for the Future By introducing trades like waste management, renewable energy, and sustainable farming, we’re setting children up for careers that tackle today’s environmental challenges. Who We’re Reaching Our project focuses on regions of Cameroon most affected by climate and social risks. We’re targeting: Direct Beneficiaries: students aged 11–18, chosen for their leadership potential and academic promise. Indirect Beneficiaries: Families, schools, and entire communities benefit from the ripple effect of education and empowerment. Dream Bigger, Aim Higher Betta Place isn’t just about fixing the problems of today—it’s about preparing for the challenges of tomorrow. As we listen, learn, and adapt, we’re ensuring the project keeps growing to meet the needs of Cameroon’s youth. We’re dreaming big, but we can’t do it alone. Be Part of the Betta Place Movement You can help turn this vision into reality! Donate: Your contribution can fund school fees, supplies, and training sessions. Partner with Us: Let’s work together to expand the reach of Betta Place. Share Your Ideas: We value your feedback to help us grow and improve. Join us in empowering Cameroon’s future heroes. Together, we can build a world where every child has a chance to thrive. Let’s make it happen—one hero at a time.
Education in Rural Cameroon: Breaking Down Barriers Together
Education is a powerful tool for change, yet in rural Cameroon, countless children are still missing out on its life-changing opportunities. Despite some progress over the years, the challenges remain immense—schools without teachers, children learning without books, and girls fighting just to stay in school. These obstacles don’t just hold individuals back; they limit entire communities and the country’s future. At Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation, we believe that every child deserves a chance to learn, no matter where they’re born. Let’s take a closer look at the hurdles rural communities face and how, together, we can overcome them. The Struggles They Face 1. Schools Without Basics Many children in rural areas don’t have a school nearby. Even when schools exist, they lack basic necessities like textbooks, desks, or trained teachers. Resources are scarce, and outdated textbooks fail to prepare students for modern job markets. By the end of primary school, only 47% of students can read a simple sentence, and just 32% can solve basic math problems (World Bank). 2. Girls Are Left Behind Cultural norms, early marriages, and financial struggles often prevent girls from continuing their education. This limits their opportunities and keeps entire families trapped in cycles of poverty. According to UNESCO, in 2019, the net enrollment rate for girls in primary school was 83.5%, compared to 92.4% for boys. At the secondary level, only 33.5% of girls were enrolled compared to 42.1% of boys, and dropout rates for girls were significantly higher at 36.5% versus 26.2% for boys. 3. Overcrowded Schools Many classrooms in rural areas are overcrowded, with a student-teacher ratio of 49:1, far exceeding the recommended 30:1. This means less personalized attention for students and poorer learning outcomes. 4. No Path to Jobs Unemployment among youth in Cameroon is a staggering 13%, and many graduates lack the skills needed for sustainable livelihoods. Vocational programs are either unavailable or poorly aligned with market demands, leaving young people underprepared for the workforce. 6. Conflict and Instability The Anglophone crisis has further disrupted education. Over 700,000 students have been deprived of schooling due to attacks on schools and the ongoing conflict, creating a generation of children left behind. The Power of Solutions Despite these challenges, hope is not lost. Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation is tackling these issues head-on by: – Improving Infrastructure: Renovating schools, equipping classrooms, and ensuring students have access to quality learning materials. – Empowering Girls: Providing scholarships, raising awareness about gender equality, and supporting girls to stay in school. – Vocational Training: Launching programs to equip young people with job-ready skills tailored to current market demands. – Community Engagement: Teaching families about the value of education, health, climate change and art&culture to create a lasting impact. – Advocating for Peace: Collaborating with local organizations to keep education accessible in conflict-affected regions. Why Education Matters Lack of education doesn’t just affect individual children—it perpetuates poverty, gender inequality, and even health crises. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the lack of education made it harder for communities to understand and follow health guidelines, leading to higher transmission rates. Education is also a critical defense against social unrest, reducing the likelihood of youth falling into extremist ideologies or exploitative labor. Be Part of the Solution Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, dream, and thrive. You can help us make this vision a reality. – Learn More: Dive deeper into the work we’re doing to transform education in rural Cameroon. – Donate: Every dollar goes toward building classrooms, training teachers, and keeping children in school. – Partner With Us: Your organization can play a vital role in expanding our reach and impact. Together, we can break barriers and unlock the potential of every child.
Climate Change in Cameroon: A Challenge We Can’t Ignore
Cameroon is feeling the brunt of climate change like never before. Rising temperatures, devastating floods, and unpredictable weather patterns are putting pressure on communities across the country. From health crises to food shortages, the effects are everywhere, and it’s clear that action is urgently needed. 2024: The Year of Unbearable Heat The heatwaves of March and April 2024 were a wake-up call. Temperatures in regions like the Far North soared to record highs, with daytime averages of 41.5°C in March and 42.3°C in April —the hottest months since 1981. At night, it wasn’t much better, with minimum temperatures averaging 25.6°C and 27.5°C. These extreme conditions weren’t limited to the Far North. Other regions, including the Centre, Adamaoua, and parts of the North-West and South-West, recorded temperatures 1°C to 3°C higher than usual (WFP Cameroon Climate Change Report, July 2024). These intense heatwaves hit people hard. Hospitals in Maroua saw a spike in cases of dehydration and heat-related illnesses, especially among the elderly, pregnant women, and young children. Tragically, civil society organizations reported deaths caused by the heat (RFI). The Ripple Effect on Agriculture Cameroon’s agriculture—already vulnerable—suffered badly. Off-season crops like sorghum, tomatoes, and onions struggled in the extreme heat. Water sources dried up, irrigation systems failed, and poor harvests pushed food prices through the roof. Livestock farming wasn’t spared either. Cattle in the Far North faced moderate to severe heat stress , leading to reduced milk production and lower reproductive rates. Farmers, desperate to find water and pasture, had to travel further, putting even more strain on their livelihoods (DNM). With agriculture employing so many people, these challenges don’t just hurt farmers—they ripple through the entire economy. The World Bank predicts that climate change could shrink Cameroon’s GDP by up to 10% by 2050 if no action is taken. Floods Add to the Misery While some regions are baking in the heat, others are drowning in floods. In 2024, over 200,000 people in the North region were affected by flooding, and 8,000 homes were destroyed. This wasn’t just an inconvenience; it disrupted children’s education, wiped out livelihoods, and left communities struggling to rebuild. In the Centre and Littoral regions, heavy rainfall caused similar chaos. Rural schools were damaged, making it harder for kids to get an education. Cameroon loses around $130 million every year due to flooding, according to the UNDRR. And it’s not just the direct damage—blocked roads and disrupted trade add to the economic toll. More Than an Environmental Problem Climate change isn’t just about extreme weather—it’s driving conflict too. In places like the Extreme North, where water and fertile land are becoming scarcer, tensions are rising between farmers, herders, and fishermen. The Logone Birni commune has already seen violent clashes over resources. The situation is even worse for people already displaced by conflict. Over one million Cameroonians are internally displaced, and many more have fled across borders. Climate shocks, like floods and droughts, are making a tough situation even harder for these vulnerable communities. Health Risks on the Rise Beyond the immediate dangers of heatwaves and floods, there are longer-term health risks to worry about. Farmers are increasingly relying on chemicals like pesticides to make up for poor yields. But these chemicals come with their own problems. Experts warn they’re contributing to antimicrobial resistance and foodborne illnesses, which could have serious consequences for public health. Why Progress is Slow Cameroon has plans to tackle climate change, from promoting climate-smart agriculture to building stronger infrastructure. But progress has been slow. The country still lacks a strong legal framework for climate action, and limited funding is holding back major projects. Private sector involvement is also a big challenge. In 2019-20, only 2.6% of total climate financing came from private businesses. Without more investment in sustainable practices and green technologies, it’ll be hard to make real progress. What Needs to Happen There’s no quick fix to climate change, but here’s what Cameroon can do to start turning things around: 1. Invest in Resilient Infrastructure: Build roads, schools, and systems that can withstand extreme weather. 2. Support Farmers and Herders: Provide better tools and training to help them adapt to changing conditions. 3. Raise Awareness*: Educate communities about climate risks and how to protect themselves. 4. Encourage Private Investment: Partner with businesses to develop innovative, low-carbon solutions. Organizations like the Cameroon National Climate Observatory (ONACC) are already providing valuable tools, such as local climate forecasts. But these efforts need more support to make a real difference. A Fight We Can’t Afford to Lose Climate change is hitting Cameroon hard, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. From struggling farmers to displaced families and overwhelmed hospitals, the impacts are everywhere. But with the right investments, policies, and partnerships, there’s hope for a more resilient future. Cameroon’s fight against climate change isn’t just about protecting the environment—it’s about safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and the country’s future. Let’s act before it’s too late.
A Memorable Day for the Heroes of the Betta Place Project
On Friday, August 30, 2024, Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation had the honor of welcoming the beneficiaries of the pilot phase of the Betta Place project, affectionately nicknamed « The Heroes. » Accompanied by their parents or guardians, as well as representatives from the schools where they will complete their final year of primary education, these young talents participated in a day filled with emotions and sharing. A Rich and Rewarding Program The day began with a detailed reading of the grant agreement, followed by an interactive Q&A session. This crucial step allowed all participants to fully understand the terms and conditions of the program, ensuring complete transparency in our approach. A Concrete Gesture for Academic Success The highlight of this meeting was the pleasure of offering each child a complete package for the new school year. Bags, pens, pencils, notebooks, and many other essential supplies were distributed, thus equipping our Heroes for a successful school year. This moment was particularly touching, tangibly illustrating our commitment to their education. Generosity at the Heart of Our Action This event would not have been possible without the generous support of people deeply concerned about children’s education, true architects of the future of our country and our continent. We express our most sincere gratitude to all those who have contributed to making this project a reality. Join Us in This Adventure! You too can make a difference! If the education of future generations is close to your heart, several options are available to you: – Make a donation to support our actions – Contact us for any form of non-material contribution Stay Connected! To not miss any of our activities and be at the heart of the action, follow us on our various social media platforms. Don’t hesitate to share our message around you – together, we can have a lasting impact on the future of our youth! Thank you all for your continued support. Together, let’s build a better future for our children!
Thank You, VoxAfrica, for Covering the Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation’s Sustainable Development Workshops
We are thrilled to share an exceptional moment in the history of the Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation. Recently, VoxAfrica produced a report on our sustainable development workshops, marking the initial phase of our ambitious project, Betta Place. A Rewarding Collaboration We extend our deepest gratitude to the VoxAfrica team for their dedication and professionalism. Their report not only highlighted our efforts to promote the education of children in need but also raised awareness of our mission and values to a broader audience. Their support is invaluable to us, and we are honored by this rewarding collaboration. The Sustainable Development Workshops The Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation’s sustainable development workshops aim to educate and raise awareness among young generations about environmental issues and sustainable practices. During these workshops, children have the opportunity to learn interactively and playfully about simple actions to preserve our planet. They discover principles of recycling, water conservation, and other eco-friendly practices. A Call to Action We warmly invite everyone who shares our vision of a better world to get involved. You can contribute in various ways: Make a Donation: Your generosity enables us to continue paying school fees and materials, offering educational workshops and to carry out our projects. Participate in Activities: Join us at our events and workshops to learn about our actions and contribute directly. Become an Ambassador: Help us spread the word about our mission by sharing our work with your networks. For Our Future Heroes Our children, our heroes of tomorrow, deserve to grow up in a healthy and sustainable environment. With your help, we can provide them with the tools and knowledge they need to become positive change-makers. Once again, thank you to VoxAfrica for their support, and thank you, dear friends of the Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation, for your continued commitment. Together, we can make a difference. To stay informed, visit our social media. Together, let’s make every child a hero of sustainable development.
Discovering the Future Leaders : Betta Place Project Initiation Workshops
A few days after the prize-giving ceremony for the Hopefuls of the Betta Place project, a crucial stage was about to begin for the young Hopefuls: the final selection to join the project definitively. On Tuesday, June 18, 2024, in a specially reserved room at the Nkoabang Parish, two workshops were held that would determine their future. Introduction to Sustainable Development Workshop The afternoon began with a workshop dedicated to sustainable development, a central theme of the Betta Place project. The aim was clear: to raise awareness and educate participants about environmental issues, while introducing them to agro-ecology through the production of bio-fertilizer from organic waste. The inquisitive and enthusiastic youngsters learn how to transform banana peel into a natural fertilizer, using precise steps and minimal equipment. Under the careful supervision of the instructors, they cut, soak and ferment banana peels in bottles, discovering the process of creating a simple but effective organic fertilizer. By the end of the workshop, the objectives have been achieved: participants have a better understanding of today’s environmental challenges and feel able to actively contribute to preserving their environment, one banana peel at a time. Introduction to Leadership workshop After a short break, it’s time for the leadership workshop. The young laureates come together to learn about each other, take on responsibilities and work together towards a common goal: keeping their daily environment clean. The workshop begins with presentation exercises and discussions about responsibilities at home and at school. Participants share their dreams for the future and discover the passions that drive them every day. Then comes the time for collective action: they organize teams to clean up the classroom, each playing a specific role to achieve a common result. Finally, a simple but meaningful evaluation test closes the workshop, where young people write down their aspirations and what they have learned from this enriching experience. This intense day of workshops enabled participants to demonstrate their commitment and interest in the Betta Place project. They not only developed their practical environmental and leadership skills, but also strengthened their desire to make a positive contribution to their community. Many thanks to YELNET for their invaluable contribution to this event. What’s next? Only ten of the eleven Hopefuls present will have the opportunity to continue the Betta Place adventure and become tomorrow’s ecological leaders, ready to make a difference in their environment and beyond. Are you inspired by the efforts of these budding young leaders and want to contribute to a more sustainable future? Join us on this wonderful adventure! How can you help? Make a donation: Your financial support is crucial to the continuity and success of our workshops. Every contribution, however modest, enables us to provide educational resources, sustainable development materials and opportunities for more young people. Take part in our future workshops: Do you have skills or knowledge to share? We’re always on the lookout for passionate volunteers to run workshops and mentor our young participants. To get involved as a volunteer, contact us through our various networks.
Celebrating the winners of the “Hopefuls 2024” competition: an unforgettable day
On Saturday June 15, 2024, the party room of the Nkoabang Parish Youth Hostel was the scene of a memorable event: the Hopefuls awards ceremony, organized by the Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation as part of the Betta Place schooling project. Here’s a look back at a day rich in emotion and discovery. In the morning, specially chartered buses picked up the prizewinners, their families and representatives of the various schools selected. This dedicated transport enabled everyone to reach the event with complete peace of mind, and to start this exceptional day under the best possible auspices. On arrival, guests were warmly welcomed and seated in the party room, carefully prepared for the occasion. The atmosphere was both solemn and festive, ready to celebrate the efforts and successes of the young talents. One of the highlights of the day was the video projection of the founder’s welcome address. Thanks to technological advances, guests were able to see and hear the woman behind this wonderful initiative. It was a precious moment, giving a face to the visionary spirit of the foundation and strengthening the bond between all participants. The ceremony continued with an in-depth introduction to the Betta Place project and its components. This ambitious project aims to create an environment conducive to the personal and professional development of young people, and the presentation aroused keen interest among the guests. An interactive question-and-answer session followed, giving participants the opportunity to better understand the objectives and prospects of the Betta Place project. The exchanges were enriching, and lifted the veil on many aspects of the project. The long-awaited moment of the awards ceremony finally arrived. The winners, moved and proud, received their awards to the applause of the audience. Souvenir photos immortalized this moment of joy and recognition. After the awards ceremony, a moment of conviviality allowed guests to relax and share refreshments and miniardises. This break was appreciated by all, offering a great opportunity to network and exchange ideas in a relaxed atmosphere. To round off this exceptional day, closing remarks were made, giving all participants an appointment for the next introductory workshops on sustainable development, scheduled for Tuesday June 18, 2024. Finally, the guests were escorted back to the various pick-up points by the buses provided for this purpose, thus ending the day on a positive and well-organized note. Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation warmly thanks all those who contributed to the success of this event, and invites you to follow the next stages of this groundbreaking project. Together, let’s continue to build a promising future for our young heroes!
Announcement of the results of the call for bids for the Betta Place project
We are delighted to announce the results of the call for applications for the Betta Place schooling project, initiated by Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation. During the month of May, we deployed calls in the Mefou-et-Afamba region, reaching the following schools: We received a total of 72 applications, of which just under half were shortlisted as Hopefuls. After contacting parents and guardians, we have drawn up a final list of 15 winners. Congratulations to all! We look forward to seeing them at the awards ceremony. Stay tuned to our networks so you don’t miss any of the next steps and upcoming events. If you’d like to get involved in the Betta Place project, whether by making a donation or assisting us during the workshops, we invite you to get in touch. Your support is essential to help us give these young heroes a better future. Thank you all for your participation and support!
Selection Phase Completed: Launch of Phase 0 of the Betta Place Project
May 10, 2024 marks the close of the call for applications for the pilot phase of the Betta Place project. We received an impressive number of applications, testifying to the enthusiasm and potential of the region’s children. As we review the various submissions, we are amazed by the promising profiles on offer, and the choice looks set to be a difficult one. However, this selection stage is crucial to move our project forward. As a reminder, the call for applications aimed to select 15 beneficiaries, the Hopefuls, to implement the program in the Mefou-et-Afamba department, in the Centre region. Of these, only 10 will be admitted to the pilot phase of the program, thus becoming our Heroes. But what will our selected Hopefuls have the opportunity to receive? The initiation phase is not limited to a simple selection process. Each child selected will benefit from support throughout the 2023-2024 school year, including : These initiatives will offer our young participants a valuable introduction to the tools they need to develop their communities and themselves. As for the Heroes, the 10 selected candidates, they will benefit for the 2024-2025 school year: A great adventure awaits our Hopefuls, and we can’t wait to share it with them. Would you like to take part in this noble cause for education? Don’t hesitate to contact us via our social networks or by email. If you’re an education professional or a service provider working in the field of sustainable development and would like to contribute to our action, your support is most welcome! If you’re inspired by our work and would like to make a financial contribution, don’t hesitate to make a donation. Discover the impact that each of your donations can have in the life of a future hero here!