Portrait of Mary Slessor
Home
Our Aims
Location
Progress Reports
Success Stories
Support Us
Contact Us

Site last updated on 24/04/2007

October 2007

This page is still under construction. Please click here to go to the reports archive.

Here is Dr Lawrie Mitchell's progress report dated 14th October 2007:

Hello All,

This is an update done on the new laptop. This means I can write offline thus saving on diesel for the generator!

  • The 50 kva generator ( see photo ) for powering the woodworking machines has a start up tomorrow.This is a big step forward.Wish us luck. It is a second hand six cylinder Ford and is on a three month guarantee. The start up is vital and if it does not operate well it will be returned at no charge. Ian will then start production of doors and windows initially with the more advanced students.
     
  • A decision has been taken to abort the buying of the palm kernel extracting system for reasons of over sophisticated machinery, plant sourced in Malaysia and we have to pay shipping and clearance, no secure method of payment etc. Instead we are going to enlarge the palm processing unit. This is to generate employment, produce funds for the foundation and supply an outlet for local women to sell their oil direct to us with no transport cost to themselves. We have funding from the UK High Commission to start building and then buying the machines.
     
  • Derry arrives on November 1st for a six month stay. VSO are looking for a long term trainer for the welding/mechanical maintenance section.
     
  • Fashion and design continues, but there is a delay in the arrival of the trainer from London. She has some medical problem and it may be February before she arrives.
     
  • The medical facility is reasonably busy and the NYSC doctor is doing well, but only here for one year. However there is an annual intake from them. The laboratory and surgery will start this month.
     
  • Fundraising, Ravi has developed a number of leads and time will tell how many bear fruit. He is in good dialogue with Gary.
     
  • Office in Dundee. Now that Gary has the office staffed and is starting networking/fundraising in UK this is a significant advance
     
  • SUMMARY Our next challenge is to produce marketable items from the fashion/design and wood working unit. The palm products have a guaranteed market. Then we have to groom suitable, carefully chosen Nigerians for management positions

Calabar - 14/10/2007

[Home] [Our Aims] [Location] [Progress Reports] [Success Stories] [Support Us] [Contact Us]

© Mary Slessor Foundation. Scottish Charity Number: SC032781