Wow, Just Wow: SiGMA Foundation Inaugurates Massive 3-in-1 School in Ethiopia!

Bishop Markos Ghebremedhin kicked off the ceremony with a speech about the positive impact of the school. He even compared Keith Marshall to the late Dun George Grima, a celebrated Maltese priest, and philanthropist. "Keith Marshall is our brother, just like Dun George Grima was our father."

Keith Marshall also gave a speech, talking about the South African concept of Ubuntu which encapsulates the human virtues of compassion and humanity. He said "I have been to many countries, but if there is one which holds Ubuntu close to its heart, it is Ethiopia and its people."

One of the most unique and special things about this school is the three namesakes, Jonathan Chetchuti, Karl Pace, and Rebecca 'Becs' Zammit Lupi. Each of these individuals have a special connection to the school and the children it will serve. Jonathan Chetchuti is the namesake for the playgrounds in the school, his speech was given by Jonathan Dalli and he remarked on Chetchuti's mantra for life centred on sports. He said “Jonathan believed that sports was the foundation for life, or in his words “the university of my life”. The principles he learned from sports – dedication, determination, discipline, respect, teamwork, and above all, the importance of having fun – guided him throughout his life.”

Karl Pace is the namesake for the kindergarten, Jonathan Galea spoke on behalf of his late cousin, he said “Karl’s dream was to empower children through education. Thank you to all who’ve helped to make this dream come true today.”

Rebecca 'Becs' Zammit Lupi is the namesake for the junior secondary school, her father Darrin Zammit Lupi spoke on her behalf, he said “Becs believed in access to education. When she was sick in hospital, she became very frustrated that her education came to a sudden halt, and campaigned for the introduction of online education for teenagers in hospital” he remarked. “She will live on through this school and the children here will now be part of her extended family.”

The SiGMA Foundation is truly making a difference in the world, and we are so proud to be a part of this amazing project. We can't wait to see the impact this school will have on the children of Ethiopia and the community as a whole. We wish them all the best and can't wait to see the future generations they will build with this school!