131st Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

Story by Sgt. Brandon Mc Carty

By Army Sgt. Brandon McCarty
Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa Public Affairs

DJIBOUTI – A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the dedication of new classrooms with a stocked library, bathroom facilities, a stage area for plays and power to Balbala primary school was the focus of a hand-over of the facility to the local community to take care of and preserve Sept. 6.

Another project, dedicated on the same day, was the addition of three buildings to the Goubetto primary school. The structures consist of four classrooms, a kitchen and food preparation area, and a dining room for the school. Construction was handled by the Enterprise Aden Ali Company and financed by Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa. The project, began May 7 and finished Aug. 7.

"This new school addition represents opportunity," said Brig. Gen. Sanford Holman, CJTF-HOA deputy commander. "Here stands the opportunity to influence and improve the knowledge, welfare and stability of future generations of Djiboutians. CJTF-HOA stands committed to fostering regional stability where people can receive an education, learn, grow and share with others what they have learned."

Hundreds of students lined up around the school yard and welcomed Holman and U.S. Ambassador to Djibouti, Stuart Symington, to the dedication by cheering and shouting as they arrived. Symington was all smiles after being fitted with a flower necklace, made by the school children.

"The instrument of hope for the Djiboutian children is education," said Symington. "The essentials that they are being taught are a light on the path of their future."

Nearly 1,400 local area children attend the school, which received a new coat of paint from service members of CJTF-HOA to brighten up the learning facility.

"I trust that this school will be a source of pride for the people of Balbala for many years to come," said Holman. "I hope that it will inspire others to learn and perhaps become teachers themselves."

The arrival of school supplies, soccer balls, watercolor paints and T-shirts from members of CJTF-HOA brought smiles to the faces of many school children.

"This is a life-long dream of mine," said Chief Cryptologic Technician (Technical) Juan Jones, CJTF-HOA dedications officer. "Helping to create a better learning environment, which will foster success for these students and the next generation of children, warms my heart and makes me feel like I have made a difference."

Holman visited many classrooms and spoke to the teachers and students, who had written "thank you" and drawn American flags on their individual chalkboards to show their appreciation.

"For you children, remember, knowledge and education is a priceless gift given to you by your teachers," said Holman. "Respect and honor them by using that gift to do great things."

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