Celtic FC Supporters Club raises £30k for Aid for Education

Members of the Celtic FC Supporters Club in Laird Street have been hosting annual race nights to generate cash for Aid for Education since 2014.

Since 2010, volunteers from the charity have been working to improve access to education for young people. 

Tubarere Nursery and Primary School was set up in the Rwamagana district in 2017, and now offers classes to 380 youngsters. 

One of the charity's founders, Douglas Kakooza, said the £29,050 raised by Greenock's Celtic FC Supporters Club in that time has made an incredible difference to the children in Rwanda. 

Douglas added: "It's an amazing amount of money. 

"I cannot thank everyone enough."

The 2024 race night, held on September 27, raised £2,200. 

Club member Jim Friel thanked Colin Watt for being MC on the night, First Choice Catering for providing the pies, and everyone who came along to support the cause. 

He added: "We want to thank everyone who gave up their money and time to make the night such a success. 

"A lot of people want to help us out every year. 

"These are difficult times for everyone and we really appreciate it. 

"What they're doing with the school out in Rwanda is amazing. 

"The money we raise goes a lot further in Rwanda than it does over here."

Douglas is from Rwanda and has lived in Inverclyde for 20 years.

He said he started the charity in response to a need for a school in the Rwandan community. 

Douglas said the money raised in Inverclyde helped build classrooms, pay for water tanks, set up a kitchen, and provide general support to the school. 

The school started with just 25 children, and now almost 400 youngsters are accessing education. 

Douglas added: "We're supporting children who would not have had access to education without this school. 

"Girls and boys are getting the opportunity to go to school, and the school is a big part of the community now. 

"Some have gone onto college and some come back and work in the school as teachers or volunteer with us. 

"There's a real bond between Inverclyde and Rwanda now."

The money raised has also helped fund the purchase of a school bus, with a sign donated by Swordfish Signs. 

It is also supporting a women's micro finance project which provides mothers with £100 to help them start small businesses and support their families. 

The money also funds a famine project which supports women to grow crops to feed their families and provide food for the school. 

Douglas said there are always opportunities for Inverclyde people to go over to Rwanda to help at the school, and take part in life-changing projects. 

Volunteer Arthur Docherty is going out to Rwanda this weekend with his sister Cathy. 

The dedicated supporter has travelled to the country around five times. 

Arthur said: "It's great to be able to go out and help staff at the school. 

"I really enjoy the experience of being out there. 

To find out more about Aid for Education visit www.aidforeducation.org and to find out more about the school visit www.tubarereschool.com