Thousands of schoolchildren across the north-east will swap their pens and pencils today for a day of fun to raise money for youngsters living in one of the poorest parts of the world.
From St Cyrus to Kincorth, and Maud to Tipperty, 82 schools across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire have signed up to take part in ARCHIE in Africa day, in addition to numerous Brownie packs, youth groups and nurseries.
Every penny raised will go towards building the first ever children’s surgical theatre at Mulago Hospital in the Ugandan capital of Kampala.
Despite being the country’s only national hospital, it has just five operating theatres to serve its 36million population, including the 80-100 babies born everyday.
There has never been an operating theatre for children – and without help, it’s unlikely there ever will be.
But today, young people in the north-east will change the country’s fortunes, and raise the money needed to create the vital facility and save hundreds of lives each year.
Youngsters across the region will be taking part in dance-a-thons, sponsored walks, dress down days, quizzes and drawing competitions – to name just a few.
In Aberdeen, Ferryhil Primary School will dedicate its assembly to ARCHIE in Africa, while tots at the Treehouse Nursery at RGU’s campus will dress up as African animals.
Pupils at Fettercairn Primary will host their own talent show, while Elrick Primary youngsters will throw wet sponges at their teachers.
Yesterday, Banff Primary School and Seaton Primary started their fundraising efforts a day early, raising hundreds of pounds.
ARCHIE’s chief executive David Cunningham said he was overwhelmed by the generosity and dedication of the youngsters, their teachers and group leaders who were helping raise money for those less fortunate.
He said an incredible amount of thought had gone into organising fun activities that can raise a lot of money.
“I cannot begin to stress how delighted we are to see the children that we support every day of the year supporting other children in one of the poorest parts of Africa,” he said.