Budding beekeepers: Okun Owa school’s legacy
In the last blog about Okun Owa school we learned about the many benefits that beekeeping has brought to the school including increased crop yields and a new water tank bought with the income generated from the hives. However, the story doesn’t end there. Like the hum of a bee colony, the impact of this project continues to resonate and spread, creating ripples of positive change that go far beyond the original vision.
Paul Lawrence: A Budding Beekeeper
Paul Lawrence, a student who initially embarked on his beekeeping journey at Okun Owa primary school, serves as a perfect example of how Bees Abroad beekeeping projects often set something in motion. Paul’s interest in beekeeping was more than just enjoying a fun activity in school; he was bitten by the beekeeping bug and decided to take it to the next level.
Starting with three hives, Paul ventured into creating his own apiary. Paul soon found he wanted to expand his new apiary further but struggled to find a carpenter to build the much-needed new hives. Determined not to let this get in the way Paul took matters into his own hands – quite literally. He decided to build his own hives, and now, he proudly tends to five hives, cultivating a thriving apiary of his own.
Beekeeping's Influence Beyond School
Paul isn’t the only student who has embraced beekeeping as a path to success. The school beekeeping club is still going, with beekeeping added to the school curriculum and many students taking the skill with them after graduation. The school reports that several pupils from the senior school, who have since left, continue beekeeping independently. These young beekeepers are not only gaining valuable skills but also generating income for themselves and their families. It’s a testament to the lasting impact of beekeeping education at Okun Owa School.
But the influence of Bees Abroad’s project doesn’t stop at the school gates. The ripples have spilled into the wider community surrounding the school; Okun Owa has had enquiries from other agricultural schools regionally about setting up their own bee club. Even individuals in other professions, such as the local motorcycle taxi drivers known as “Okadas,” have expressed a keen interest in beekeeping. They’ve witnessed the success and enthusiasm of beekeeping activities at the school and have been inspired to explore the opportunity for themselves.
A four-year project, a lasting legacy
What this project has accomplished extends beyond honey and hives. The story of Paul Lawrence and the many other students who have embraced beekeeping is a testament to the enduring legacy of Bees Abroad’s work in Okun Owa. It reminds us that the impact of small initiatives can grow into something truly extraordinary, inspiring individuals to follow their passions, overcome obstacles, and contribute to the greater good of their community.
As the hum of bees continues to resonate through Okun Owa School and its surroundings, it serves as a reminder that the best stories are the ones that don’t have an ending.
Will You Bee Part of The Story?
Bees Abroad can only work with communities like Okun Owa school with the help of our supporters. Will you “Bee Part of The Story”?
This blog is part of Remember a Charity campaign week. Through the Remember a Charity campaign week, we will celebrate the impact made by our small but mighty initiatives and those who have supported us.
We’re spreading the small but mighty message. You don’t have to be a millionaire to leave a legacy through your Will. Help us spread the buzz about legacy giving and show the word that we can all be ‘Willantropists’ – creating a legacy that truly matters, no matter the size.
