HEALTH & EDUCATION

Where the School has No Walls

Published

3 years ago

October 1, 2021

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What if there’s a school with no walls, where the students are smiling and they don’t want to leave. Su Aziz finds one such school.

In a most unexpected setting, nestled in the heart of a lush Balinese jungle, sit several bamboo structures that form Green School. It’s a private, non-profit school for preschool to grade 12 (age 3 – 18) and its curriculum focuses on powerful, sustainable as well as impactful learning experiences that can help develop 21st century skills. The beauty of it is, the school has no walls, uses natural light and is built on approximately eight hectares of land.

Founders, John and Cynthia Hardy conceived the idea of the school in 2006, and opened its doors in 2008 to 90 students. The award-winning jewellers and sustainable business pioneers were 30-year residents of Bali then, and wanted their daughters to attend a school they believe in, one that went beyond the physical limitations of most traditional schools.

John was affected by Al Gore’s film, An Inconvenient Truth, that during his TED Talk in 2010 which garnered over a million views on YouTube, he said, ‘I’ve four kids. And even if part of what he [Al Gore] says is true, they’re not going to have the life that I had. And I decided at that moment that I would spend the rest of my life doing whatever I could to improve their possibilities.’

John introduced his school during his 2010 TED Talk by saying how his school doesn’t look like a school, but, he adds, ‘At Green School, the children are smiling. An unusual thing for schools! The people who built my school also built the prison and insane asylums, out of the same material.’ Which is bamboo, a sustainable building material.

The school’s mission of ‘a community of learners making our world sustainable’ sets the core philosophy of why and how the school educates. Basically, it sets out to develop global green leaders. Teachers here are as diverse as the student body. It prepares the students for the real world by being involved in it now, to have impact now, to take responsibility now, to model as well as practice the skills and mindsets that we’ll need later on, now.

Back to School
In many ways what happens at Green School can, and does, at times look very similar to what happens in other schools. The difference lies in the culture that’s created around the experience: the collegiality between students and teachers, the ‘everyone is a learner’ belief system, the dedication to celebrating people’s differences not similarities, and highlighting how differences actually build a stronger community than similarities.

Currently, there are 508 students at the school from 35 countries including 43 full scholarship Balinese students. A school day runs from 8.15am to 3.15pm but students often stay on till 5pm for the daily after school activities.

The ‘Green School way’ or the Green School curriculum has age and developmentally appropriate ways of teaching as well as embedding learning. Their curriculum follows the three frames of learning:

Thematic: geography and maths may be integrated into a thematic.
Proficiency: focuses on core, discrete intellectual competencies that require repetition to reach proficiency.
3. Experiential: ‘At most schools,’ its principal Leslie Medema said in an interview, ‘you learn about making a bridge in a book. At progressive schools, you maybe make it out of matchsticks or carve it out of soap. At Green School, you actually just go and make it.’

In wall-less classrooms, primary school students may start with circle time and a moment for the whole class to get together before breaking out into other subjects for the day. Proficiency classes are usually in the morning, followed by thematic or the experiential lesson frame.

Students may have a green studies class in the garden, their physical wellbeing class in the gym, their science class in the bamboo science lab or head to see the music teacher in the music room. The students may be at Green School Innovation Hub, which is their makers space, where they create items using woodworking equipment or 3D printers. At Project Hub, they pitch a student-led project idea which will then be used in the classroom or engage in their Waste Management centre called Kembali.

Snack time and lunch are in the main building of the school which is known as the Heart of School and older students tend to eat lunch in the main community space. Then, afternoon lessons may involve an assembly or middle school and high school students may be meeting up with their mentors for their projects (Quest and Green Stone). Otherwise, they may present their projects in the Adult Co-working space known as The Bridge – by the way, Green School is also for grownups.

Balancing Green and Tech

Green School aims to empower in their students a healthy and vibrant growth mindset, entrepreneurial and innovative mindset, and a sustainability mindset. In the decade since it’s been operating, there are two success stories that the school’s proud of:
1. Bio-Bus: their sustainable transportation system that runs on used cooking oil.
2. Bye Bye Plastic Bags: youth movements to ban plastic bags use in Bali and beyond.

Despite being a school in the jungle, the school embraces both high-tech and low-tech solutions. They believe that in order to build a sustainable future, being skilled in technology is part of that change and allows their students to make a bigger impact now.

Green School Innovation Hub was created to fulfill the need to create a space where students could learn by creating, iterating and learning through mistakes. The hub’s equipped with 3D printers, woodworking equipment, laser engravers and precious plastic machines that help them convert plastic recycling waste into ink for their 3D printers.

The school’s curriculum teaches digital citizenship in an age, and developmentally, appropriate way. Their primary school students have a computer lab and learn to use technology. Middle school and high school students are required to use laptops as part of their lessons. Furthermore, it has been accredited by WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges).

Staying Relevant

The school’s curriculum is ever evolving. Established course design processes ensure regular review of program offerings that are always open to student-led directions that can be explored and evidence-based approaches, for curriculum development.

Their teachers come from all corners of the globe, bringing with them their own educational networks and resources. Faculty and individual professional development are supported with a focus on peer-lead development and training, along with external expertise.

With a focus on global issues and real learning, their teachers are expected to be well-read and plugged into world issues. Teachers and students are also able to tap into the expertise and knowledge that reside within their parent community. For example, on highly technical projects such as renewable energy, a team of students, along with their teacher, can invite a parent to join the project team to provide expert input and contribute to the learning and achievement of the end goal.

What’s Next

The next step is heading towards New Zealand. This is because of the country’s ‘can do’ culture and pristine natural environment provide the school with a wonderful opportunity for a second Green School. With its own unique elements, Green School New Zealand will stay true to their philosophies of structural design and learning principles while embracing the culture as well as traditional wisdom of the people, and work in harmony with the natural landscape.

The physical design of the school will be in keeping with the belief that the structures should work in harmony with the land, that children will be immersed in nature and that buildings should be works of art that spark creativity, as well as make a tangible statement about the school’s commitment to sustainability.

The school will open in February 2020 with an initial enrolment of around 85 students. Since the announcement of Green School New Zealand, enrolment interest has been very high, signalling the need for new educational models globally. What’s more, it’s promising to be the kind of school where students don’t want to leave.

A typical day at school depends on the age of a student – from early years, primary school, middle school and high school:

Starts with a commute to Green School on the Bio Bus fuelled by used cooking oil.
Coming through the bamboo school gates and meeting friends at the community space which has a local restaurant, juice bar and a hangout place. Parents and students usually meet and greet here.
Classes start at 8.10am so the gong rings at this time (there’s no school bell).
School ends at 3.15pm but there are numerous after school activities to choose from, including Balinese Dance, engineering club, capoeira and soccer.

Three tips Green School have for conventional schools to realistically adopt or incorporate sustainability into their curriculum by Leslie Medema, principal of Green School:

*Leslie Medema, principal of Green School in Bali*

Learning real life experiences or projects: the students feel their learning come to life. That’s when they really know and can answer why they go to school and understand the impact they can have in their world which is a highly empowering and motivating experience.
Focus on the mindsets you’re creating in children. It isn’t what they do or what they learn as much as it’s how they think that will change their lives and the world. These mindsets should be growth oriented, entrepreneurial, problem solving and sustainability focused. Mindsets can be changed and developed in many ways but really it’s through the experiences that one has in life.
Develop 21st century skills and make this your foundation.

This article first appeared in In Focus issue 4 magazine.

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HEALTH & EDUCATION

Nigeria is Pioneering a New Vaccine to Fight Meningitis – Why this Matters

Published

3 weeks ago

April 30, 2024

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Nigeria recently became the first country to roll out a new vaccine (called Men5CV) recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), which protects people against five strains of meningococcus bacteria. Idris Mohammed, a professor of infectious diseases and immunology and former board chair of Nigeria’s National Programme on Immunisation, explains the new vaccine and its likely impact.

What is meningitis?

Meningitis is the inflammation of the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord, usually caused by infection. It can be fatal. Meningitis can be caused by several species of bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. The highest global burden is seen with bacterial meningitis. Around one in six people who get this type of meningitis die. One in five have severe complications

The main bacteria responsible for the disease are Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The main symptoms are sudden high fever, backache, stiff neck, headaches, nausea, vomiting and intense dislike for sunlight (photophobia). Patients with a severe infection can experience confusion, delirium and loss of consciousness. Meningitis can affect people of any age.

Meningitis bacteria are transmitted from person to person through droplets of respiratory or throat secretions from carriers. Kissing, sneezing or coughing on someone, or living in close quarters with an infected person, facilitates its spread. The average incubation period is four days but can range between two and 10 days.

Epidemics of meningitis are seen across the world, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The so-called “African meningitis belt” consists of 26 contiguous countries from Senegal and The Gambia in the west to Ethiopia in the east. Outbreaks have also been reported in countries outside Africa like Canada, Belgium, France, Brazil and Denmark.

Why does Nigeria have a high burden of meningitis?

Nigeria’s 19 northern states are within the African meningitis belt. A few southern states such as Osun, Ogun and Anambra are also affected. The major factors that determine meningitis infection include a hot and dry environment and dusty atmospheric conditions.

Between 1 October 2022 and 16 April 2023, Nigeria reported 1,686 suspected cases of meningitis, including 124 deaths, for a case fatality ratio of 7%. The highest proportion of reported cases is among children aged 1 to 15 years. Factors that contribute to meningitis are all present in northern Nigeria. Low or no vaccination; presence of carriers; under-nutrition; overcrowding; scarce rainfall; low humidity; high temperatures. It’s often over 35°C, sometimes as high as 45°C.

The general population can’t afford nutritious foods that can boost the immune system. Add to these factors the level of education, poor hygienic conditions and overcrowding, and perfect conditions for an epidemic outbreak are complete. Although the burden of epidemic meningitis is highest in the north of Nigeria, there is sporadic infection countrywide.

What’s specific about the meningitis strains in Nigeria?

There are five strains of meningitis in Africa: serotypes A, C, W, X and Y. Infectivity and clinical features (symptoms and signs) are the same with the strains. These features were established by serotype A, which was the first and dominant strain in the country. The severity of the infection may be higher with the new variants, such as group C meningococcal, as seen in some cases in north-western Nigeria. Serotypes W, X and Y may have similarly higher severity because the organisms are new to the country. Immunity to them is therefore not strong enough.

What makes this new 5-in-1 vaccine so special?

For more than a century, epidemics of meningococcal meningitis have ravaged the African meningitis belt. Some of the earliest prevention attempts involved the use of sulphur drugs and penicillin based antibiotics.

But these were not successful in preventing outbreaks. Mass use of sulphur-based drugs for prevention had to be abandoned because by the 1970s Neisseria meningitides had become resistant to these drugs.

The next obvious line was to consider vaccination with available polysaccharide vaccines. These use specific pieces of the disease-causing germ, like its protein, sugar, or the casing around it. They give a very strong immune response that targets key parts of the germ.

There was only one such vaccine available at the time. This was the A+C vaccine (Institut Meriuex), which had never been used routinely or on a large scale until an epidemic in Bauchi in 1978. The vaccine terminated that epidemic within a few weeks.

Since then, several researchers like John Robbins have advocated intensified mass vaccinations with the polysaccharide vaccines. But the WHO was reluctant, with fairly good reason.

Polysaccharide vaccines are poorly immunogenic, meaning not able to elicit protective immunity to the disease – particularly in young children, because they do not have immune memory. So the vaccines are not cost-effective or sufficiently protective.

The 1996 outbreak in northern Nigeria affecting over 120,000 people and causing 12,000 deaths – and described by the WHO as the largest in recorded history – changed the narrative. A joint WHO/PATH “Meningitis Vaccine Project” facilitated by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation produced the highly effective conjugate meningitis A vaccine (known as MenAfriVac). Over 260 million people in the African meningitis belt were vaccinated with it. This led to the virtual elimination of meningococcal A serotype.

But serotypes C, W, X and Y then emerged. Hence the critical importance of the 5-in-1 (also known as MenFive, or Men5CV). Proper and sustained vaccination with the 5-in-1 vaccine should put paid to epidemics of meningococcal meningitis in Africa.

What impact will the new vaccine have on meningitis control in Nigeria?

By containing the five most important serotypes causing meningitis in Nigeria, this vaccine is bound to have a far reaching positive impact on control of the disease. Among all the 26 African countries within the African meningitis belt, Nigeria is by far the most populous. Thus an epidemic of the disease affects many people.

Before the year 2000 hardly a case of serotype C, W, X, or Y had been reported in Nigeria. The success of group A conjugate MenAfriVac introduced in 2010 in Burkina Faso has changed the pattern and periodicity of epidemic meningitis, and the real challenge and menace of replacement serotypes underscores the critical importance of the 5-in-1 conjugate meningitis vaccine. Its impact will be huge.

Idris Mohammed is a Professor Emeritus, Gombe State University

Courtesy: The Conversation

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EDITORIAL

Islamic Finance Shaping the Future: A Reflection on the International Summit on Financing Primary Healthcare Infrastructure in Nigeria

Published

5 months ago

December 14, 2023

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On November 30th, 2023, the International Summit on Financing Primary Healthcare Infrastructure in Nigeria took center stage in Abuja, bringing together global leaders, financial experts, and healthcare professionals to deliberate on a critical theme: “Islamic Finance: Exploring New Sources of Financing for Primary Healthcare Transformation in Nigeria.” This landmark event, which was organized by DUKE Consult Limited in strategic collaboration with the Africa Islamic Economic Foundation, Ghana and Glocal Healthcare Systems Ltd, India, marked a significant step towards addressing the healthcare infrastructure challenges in Nigeria through innovative and sustainable financing mechanisms.

The Urgency of Healthcare Infrastructure Transformation

Nigeria, like many other developing nations, faces substantial challenges in its healthcare infrastructure. The need for adequate facilities, skilled healthcare professionals, and sustainable funding mechanisms has become increasingly urgent, especially in the wake of global health crises. The summit recognized that achieving robust primary healthcare infrastructure is pivotal to ensuring the well-being of the population and addressing health disparities.

Islamic Finance as a Catalyst for Change

The choice of Islamic finance as the central theme reflects a strategic move towards diversifying sources of funding for healthcare infrastructure. Islamic finance principles, rooted in ethical and equitable financial practices, provide an alternative framework for generating funds. By exploring these principles, Nigeria aims to tap into new avenues that align with its cultural values while fostering inclusive economic development.

Key Discussions and Agreements

The summit facilitated in-depth discussions on the potential of Islamic finance to transform Nigeria’s primary healthcare infrastructure. Attendees deliberated on the principles of Islamic finance, such as risk-sharing, profit and loss sharing, and ethical investment, as tools for shaping a more sustainable healthcare future.

One of the primary outcomes was the establishment of collaborative initiatives between the public and private sectors, leveraging Islamic finance instruments to fund healthcare projects. The summit also saw the formation of partnerships with international organizations and financial institutions, showcasing a commitment to shared responsibility in addressing Nigeria’s healthcare challenges.

Emphasizing Inclusivity and Cultural Sensitivity

An essential aspect of the summit was the emphasis on inclusivity and cultural sensitivity in healthcare financing. Recognizing that Islamic finance aligns with Nigeria’s cultural and religious values, the summit underscored the importance of tailoring financial mechanisms to the specific needs and beliefs of the population. This approach ensures that healthcare development is not only economically sustainable but also culturally resonant, promoting widespread acceptance and participation.

Looking Forward

The International Summit on Financing Primary Healthcare Infrastructure in Nigeria has set a precedent for innovative and inclusive approaches to addressing healthcare challenges. As Nigeria strives to achieve its healthcare transformation goals, the incorporation of Islamic finance principles serves as a beacon for other nations facing similar challenges.

In conclusion, the summit marked a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey towards sustainable healthcare development. By exploring new sources of financing rooted in ethical principles, the country is forging a path towards a healthier, more resilient future. As the initiatives launched at the summit unfold, they have the potential not only to transform healthcare infrastructure but also to serve as a model for other nations seeking innovative financing solutions in the pursuit of universal health coverage.

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HEALTH & EDUCATION

Highlights of the One Day International Summit on Financing Primary Healthcare Infrastructure in Nigeria

Published

5 months ago

December 7, 2023

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By our special correspondent

A one-day international Summit on Financing Primary Healthcare Infrastructure in Nigeria under the theme: Islamic Finance: Exploring New Sources Of Financing For Primary Healthcare Transformation in Nigeria was held in Abuja, the Capital of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the 30^th of November, 2023, at the NICON Luxury Hotel, under the distinguished Chairmanship of His Excellency, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, former Executive Governor of Kano State.

The groundbreaking event, which was organized by DUKE Logistics & Consult (Nigeria) Limited, Abuja, in strategic collaboration with the Africa Islamic Economic Foundation, Ghana and Glocal Healthcare Services Limited, India, was held to explore innovative healthcare financing models that leverage Islamic finance instruments such as sukuk (Islamic bonds), waqf (endowments), and takaful (Islamic insurance), etc. in providing sustainable and long-term financing for primary healthcare transformation in Nigeria; and to foster collaboration between the various states of the federation to share best practices and experiences in leveraging Islamic finance for healthcare projects.

The summit featured keynote speeches and discussions on various topics related to Islamic finance, healthcare infrastructure development and digital health solutions: The role of Islamic Finance in healthcare Infrastructure Development in Nigeria, by Prof. Ahmad bello Dogarawa of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Digital Health Solutions Innovation: The Glocal Story, by Mr Shailesh Kumar, of the Glocal Healthcare Systems Limited, India; Digital Health Transformation: Opportunities & Challenges, by Hon Dr Abdel Majeed Haroun, former Minister of Agriculture, Republic of Ghana; Africa Healthcare Infrastructure Program (AHIDEP), by Hajiya Aishatu Usman Muhammad of the Gombe State University, Gombe, The foregoing presentations were supported with expert and insightful discussions by Dr Aisha Ahmed, an Islamic Finance expert and consultant, Abuja and Mr. Muhammad Lawal Shu’aibu, CEO, LCM Consult Limited Abuja.

One of the key discussions revolved around the role of Islamic Finance in healthcare infrastructure development in Nigeria. Participants delved into the potential of Islamic Finance to provide sustainable funding for the construction and maintenance of healthcare facilities. This topic explored innovative financing models that align with the principles of Islamic Finance, such as waqf (endowment) and sukuk (Islamic bonds).

Another captivating topic discussed at the summit was “Digital Health Solutions Innovation: The Glocal Story.” The term “Glocal” refers to the combination of global and local perspectives. The Summit focused on the Glocal Story, which highlighted its cutting-edge digital health solutions that bridge the gap between global advancements and local healthcare needs. Experts shared success stories, case studies, and best practices, showcasing how technology can revolutionize healthcare delivery in Nigeria by improving access, affordability, and quality of care.

Furthermore, the summit covered the topic of “Digital Health Transformation: Opportunities and Challenges.” This presentation highlighted the importance of adapting digital health solutions to the specific needs and contexts of Nigeria. It addressed how these innovations can improve healthcare accessibility, efficiency, and quality, particularly in underserved areas. Participants explored the potential benefits and challenges associated with digital health transformation in Nigeria. They examined how technological advancements, such as telemedicine, electronic health records, and artificial intelligence, can revolutionize healthcare delivery and management in the country.

The presentation of the Africa Healthcare Infrastructure Development Program, the flagship initiative of the Africa Islamic Economic Foundation, offered participants a glimpse of the functions of the Program. The presentation shows that AHIDEP is a great platform to connect with international organizations and investors who are interested in supporting healthcare initiatives in Nigeria. However, to showcase the importance and potential of a healthcare project to potential investors, potential beneficiaries would have to prepare a comprehensive proposal outlining their healthcare infrastructure development goals, strategies, and the potential impact.

The discussions also touched upon the importance of involving stakeholders and ensuring efficient management of healthcare infrastructure projects. Furthermore, the discussions elucidated in detail how Islamic finance can support the innovation and implementation of digital health solutions tailored to the Nigerian context. The conversation revolved around leveraging technologies like telemedicine, mobile health applications, and electronic health records to enhance access to healthcare services, especially in remote areas. The importance of collaborations between local and international stakeholders for effective digital health transformation was also emphasized.

Overall, this one-day event, the international summit on financing primary healthcare infrastructure in Nigeria provided a platform for experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss strategies and explore new sources of financing for primary healthcare transformation in Nigeria. It showcased the potential of Islamic Finance as a viable option and emphasized the importance of digital health solutions in shaping the future of healthcare in the country.

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