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Stepping Stones Nigeria (SSN) was established in 2005 in response to the plight of abandoned children who have been stigmatised as “witches” and the lack of access to quality education in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Since this date the scope of our work has grown considerably. Indeed our work now provides lasting hope to hundreds of disadvantaged children, such as orphans and abandoned children, in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria.
Our approach focuses on working with partner community organisations to protect, save and transform the lives of children. These organisations are all run by inspirational Nigerians who reinforce our belief that helping Africans to help Africans is the most sustainable long term strategy to meet the needs of the children. SSN also advocates for the rights of children at a local, national and international level.
Our Partners
o The Stepping Stones Model School - Established by SSN and the local community of Uquo in 2005, the school provides an outstanding level of education to 180 primary age children. Half of the pupils are orphans and are provided with full scholarships, uniforms and school books.
o Bebor Model International School - A new partner of Stepping Stones Nigeria. SSN has recently committed towards funding the construction of a borehole project for the school and local community.
o Child Rights and Rehabilitation Network (CRARN) - Since beginning working in partnership with SSN in 2006, CRARN has gone from strength-to-strength. The dedicated team of young staff and volunteers currently provide shelter, education and welfare to 141 abandoned children, all of whom have been stigmatised as “witches”.
o Stepping Stones Nigeria Child Empowerment Foundation (SSNCEF) - SSN's sister Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) is currently researching the needs of abandoned children in Akwa Ibom State with a view to establishing a model street children project there in the near future. The NGO also advocates for the rights of the child at a local, state and national level.
o University of Uyo Jolly Phonics Team - Works with SSN to train and resource government primary schools in the use of the fast track literacy scheme - “Jolly Phonics” - with a view to radically improving literacy levels in Akwa Ibom state.
As a small, grassroots charity SSN is committed towards keeping our administration costs to a bare minimum. The majority of our work is carried out by young volunteers with support from one full time staff member. Whilst in Nigeria we do not drive around in jeeps, put on grandiose conferences in expensive venues or stay in expensive hotels as many charities do. Instead we live, eat and travel with local people, thus forging closer links with communities, whilst saving costs.
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