London, 10 May 2024 – NTT DATA, a global leader in digital business and IT services, today announced a commitment to increasing its support for international children’s charity Street Child by launching a new phase of its ongoing partnership. Together, they will build a junior secondary school in a remote community in Sierra Leone, where this level of education hasn’t previously been available, with plans to grow and scale the partnership over the coming years.
For over a decade, Street Child has been at the forefront of education initiatives in Sierra Leone, having supported the building of more than 650 primary schools in rural areas across the country. However, despite the success of these primary schools, many communities lack access to secondary education facilities, leaving thousands of children with limited options for continuing their education.
Recognising this urgent need, NTT DATA is joining forces with Street Child to help keep children in school and shape a better tomorrow for all.
The partnership seeks to build a junior secondary school that’s fully furnished with latrines and a water pump so students, as well as the wider community, have access to hygiene and clean water facilities. It will also also train teachers and establish income-generating initiatives for the community, often through loaned seeds, rice, or groundnuts for farming. The profits from selling these goods will fund teacher salaries and school repairs.
This holistic approach to include hygiene facilities and income-generating support is a proven method of sustainable intervention, which will ensure generations of children can access their right to life-changing education. Once completed, the school will be able to accommodate over 100 children each year.
Niccolo Spataro, CEO at NTT DATA UK&I, commented: “NTT DATA is proud to growing our partnership with Street Child, as we enter a new phase in building a brighter future for children in Sierra Leone. By investing in secondary education and holistic community support, we're empowering young minds and fostering lasting change for a more sustainable society. Together, we're shaping a tomorrow where every child has the opportunity to thrive.”
Over the next twelve months, NTT DATA will host a variety of fundraising activities and employee engagement events to hit a fundraising target, which will cover the cost of the project. NTT DATA’s enhanced support coincides with Street Child’s 15th anniversary and next phase of growth in supporting marginalised children worldwide.
"We are delighted to be taking our partnership with NTT DATA to the next level. This investment in secondary education will ensure children in Sierra Leone can continue their studies, unlocking their full potential to become future leaders and changemakers in their communities. We look forward to working with NTT DATA to make a lasting difference in the lives of these students and their families,” said Street Child CEO & Founder Tom Dannatt.
Construction is set to begin this fall after the rainy season subsides and the community has been identified. To learn more and donate toward NTT DATA’s efforts, visit this page.