A 'Gem' of a project in Bangladesh

We welcomed back Gem Munro for an update on Amarok's projects in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nigeria.  He oversees a sustainable and cost effective alterative educational project in the slums of Bangladesh.  They teach mothers and girls to read, and they then go out and teach others.  Gem updated us on two students, Aduri (a young girl who is breaking down traditional barriers with the assistance of her family), and Bulbuli, who participated in our Club-initiated project (A Newspaper a Day, suggested by Neil Mort).  This is a Newspaper Club, where newspapers are purchased each day and read to neighbours and family.  Gem pointed out that it increases confidence, world understanding, reduced extremism due to a greater understanding and personal peace.  The project has been very successful and now all of their schools have a Newspaper Club.  Gem pointed out that it is time to "stop rattling the sabres and start ringing the school bells".  Gem is also working on a new project to introduce libraries for each school group.   We all agree - there is nothing more powerful than an educated and motivated female community leader.  Thanks again to Gem.