Journey North Mystery Class Spring 2003

Introducing Mystery Class #6
Banjul, Gambia, Africa ( 13.467 N, 16.650 W)

Hello from sunny Gambia!

Hello from Gambia!

Our School: We are a sixth grade class from The Banjul American Embassy School (BAES). Our class consists of 8 students, 3 girls and 5 boys. Various nationalities are represented in our class, including, Gambian, Ethiopian, Moroccan, Austrian, Swedish, Chinese, British, Bangladeshi, and American. Our teacher is Mr. Breece. He is an American and is new to our school this year.

We have classes from 8:00 to 2:00, Monday through Friday. The school year extends from September through June, with approximately 180 days of instruction. Our school offers an American style curriculum from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. It is located in a quiet, residential area . Facilities include 4 major buildings with 13 classrooms, a library (9000 volumes), computer laboratory, art room, and a purpose built science laboratory. Recreational facilities include two playgrounds, and a small soccer field. We also have a stage that is used for major school productions. There are currently 80 students in the school, comprising of 18% North American, 21% British, 14% Gambian, 6% Lebanese, and the remainder from 14 other countries.

Our Country: We are located in The Gambia on the West African coast. The Gambia borders the North Atlantic Ocean and is surrounded by Senegal on all other sides. It is a flat, small country, slightly less than twice the size of Delaware. We have tropical climate with a hot, rainy season (June to November) and a cooler, dry season (November to May). The Gambia River runs through the center of our country and our main natural resource is fish.

The Gambia

Our People and Culture: The majority of the people here are African. They come from various tribes including Mandinka, Fula, Wolof, Jola, and Serahuli. One percent of the population is non-African. Ninety percent of the population is Muslim, while nine percent are Christian and one percent follow indigenous beliefs. The official language is English, however many people also speak a variety of local languages including Mandinka, Wolof, Fula, and Jola.

Our Resources and Economy: The Gambia has few important mineral or other natural resources and has a limited agricultural base. About 75% of the population depends on crops and livestock for its livelihood. Small-scale manufacturing activity features the processing of peanuts, fish, and hides. Therefore, the economy is dependent upon tourism. People come from all over the world to enjoy our warm weather, sunny beaches and relaxed atmosphere.

We hope that some day you can come and visit us!