At Dubco Ireland Credit Union, our commitment to making a difference extends beyond financial services. For over two decades, we’ve proudly supported The Gambia Education Project, a life changing initiative that reflects our credit union’s values of community, compassion, and global responsibility.
The Gambia Education Project: 20+ Years of Impact
The Gambia Education Project was born out of Dubco Ireland member Monica Murphy’s dedication to volunteering, forming the foundation of a lasting partnership that began in 2001. Since then, Dubco Ireland members have sponsored a nursery school in Fajikunda, a suburb of Banjul, The Gambia’s capital. Located in one of the most economically challenged regions in Africa, this school has provided vital early childhood education for approximately 1,000 children.
Through this initiative, children receive pre-primary education aligned with Ireland’s junior and senior infant curriculum, helping them build essential literacy and life skills. This support has contributed not only to the students' academic growth but also to the socio-economic development of the wider community.
A School Rooted in Irish Connection
The school was originally established in 1984 by the Marist Sisters to deliver early education and train local teachers. Notable contributors include Sister Ann O’Mahoney from Cork and Sister Mary Richardson from Kilmainham, Dublin. Sister Mary, who trained at the Carysfort teacher training college and taught in Goldenbridge for 20 years, moved to The Gambia in 2001 to work at the school.
Her continued dedication and regular visits to Dubco Ireland Credit Union highlight the deep connection between our members and the project. Thanks to the ongoing financial support from Dubco Ireland members, the school has grown to employ three qualified teachers and a head teacher, and in 2001, the school received its first electricity supply, funded directly by our members.
The school operates without any financial support from the Gambian government, relying solely on charitable donations, making our members’ contributions all the more impactful.
Why The Gambia?
- The Gambia is the smallest country in mainland Africa, surrounded by Senegal and bordering the Atlantic Ocean.
- Nearly 48% of its 1.8 million citizens live in poverty.
- The closest Irish Embassy is over 3,500 kilometres away in Abuja, Nigeria.
- Education in rural and suburban areas like Fajikunda remains a major challenge.
Dubco Ireland’s involvement helps bridge the gap in access to education, making a real difference in a region facing poverty, political uncertainty, and climate challenges.
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The John Kelly Developing World Fund
To continue our support for impactful global initiatives, Dubco Ireland Credit Union created the John Kelly Developing World Fund. This fund offers up to €1,500 in financial assistance to members who are actively involved in charitable or development projects in the developing world.
Who Can Apply?
- Applicants must be active participants in the specific project.
- Projects should focus on areas such as education, financial literacy, cultural development, or community support.
- The fund supports initiatives that align with Dubco Ireland’s mission of social responsibility and international development.
Eligibility Criteria (Aligned with International Development Standards):
- Low income status, based on gross national income per capita.
- Limited human assets, measured by education and skills access.
- High economic vulnerability, determined through global development indices.
This fund is another example of how Dubco Ireland Credit Union empowers our members to create positive, meaningful change, both locally and globally.
Proud to Make a Global Impact
Whether it's through sponsoring a school in The Gambia or supporting volunteers through the John Kelly Developing World Fund, Dubco Ireland remains committed to making a real difference in the lives of others.
We believe that credit unions, at their core, are about people helping people. These projects are a true reflection of that mission. Interested in supporting or applying for the John Kelly Fund? Get in touch with our team at info@dubcoireland.ie.
