A Surprise visit to Ghana from founder, Barry Hoffner

Barry Hoffner stopped in Ghana for thirty-six hours on his way between Lagos, Nigeria, and Monrovia, Liberia to see our Bourse Jackie Scholarship Recipients during their summer intensive English language program in Accra at the BT Institute.

Every summer we send five of our 2nd or 3rd year scholarship recipients to Ghana to take their English language skills to the next level. English language ability is a game-changer for these young women for their careers and other scholarship opportunities outside of Mali.

Barry spent a few hours at the BT Institute and came away very impressed with the quality of instruction and the professionalism of the school. He addressed both the staff of the school and also a number of those studying.

Students, from all over French-speaking Africa, go to the BT Institute to learn English.

As Barry said, “Aside from the English learning it really hit me what a compelling life experience this is for these young women. For all five of them, it is their first time out of Mali. Of course, moving to Bamako for university from Timbuktu is a big change for them. But they all live with extended family so are not really completely independent. Here in Ghana, they are and they talked a lot about this. How this has changed them and has given them the confidence that they can manage on their own. It has empowered them. I believe our Bourse Jackie Program embodies this idea….not only getting a university degree and other academic and career skills but the motivation and confidence that they can have the courage to pursue their dreams!”