Local knowledge leveraged with focused investment to create safe learning environments.
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EFFAC Founder- Anthony Osei
Born in Ghana and raised in rural Togo, Anthony understands the local community and has worked with officials and community leaders to give back to the home which instilled his desire to go to college. Now living in Minneapolis, his mission is to improve educational environments to provide Togolese children with the opportunity to create their own futures.
The Foundation - First Steps
EFFAC began in 2016 when Anthony recovered retired corporate laptops and re-purposed them for students with the help of SAP Concur. He personally traveled to Togo to implement the computers and distribute school supplies and books. In 2017, EFFAC became a 501(c)(3) so it could better achieve it’s mission with the help of others.
Breaking Ground
In 2018, with the addition of Mike Koetting as Vice President and with the support of friends and colleagues at SAP Concur, the foundation built their first classroom addition and a computer lab at Ecole Primaire Catholique St. Boniface in Kovie, Togo. The local leaders and community members embraced this project and classes began in fall, 2018. Enrollment increased by 100 students.
The Tuition Barrier
Students in Togo must pay tuition as primary education is not fully funded, creating a barrier for many rural students to enrollment. The tuition of $18 per year along with losing time that the child could be helping at home means many families do not send all their children to school, with girls much more likely to be excluded.
EFFAC Provides Tuition Relief and More
In 2019, EFFAC began funding every child’s tuition allowing enrollment to grow to 800 students and easing the burden on their families. In addition, EFFAC has continued to fund school supplies, uniforms and shoes for 15% of students, computer updates, and internet access as well as the salary for a lab technician to work with students and equipment. Through targeted initiatives, EFFAC has implemented larger projects to enhance shelter and safety.
Sustaining and Growing: Room for You
In 2022, EFFAC expanded it’s Board and made a commitment to reach out to partners in the community, allowing more people to share our experience and help provide ongoing support to St. Boniface and the community in Kovie, Togo. Through student sponsorship opportunities, directed investment, and communication via newsletter, we hope you will join us in creating opportunities for students to cultivate their talents and brilliance which will drive real change in their communities.