FOUNDATION FOR THE
EDUCATION OF GUINEA-BISSAU

HU

How Did the Betel School Begin?

Missionary José Valberto Teixeira Oliveira moved to Cacine in 1996, where he noticed there was no school. In 1997, he founded the Betel School, starting with a kindergarten class. Over the years, the school expanded and now serves 750 students, from preschoolers to graduates.

Achieving a high school diploma is a significant accomplishment in such a small rural community, as it remains financially out of reach for many students.

The mission of Betel School is to provide quality education and foster intellectual, moral, and physical development for both students and the community.

Key Milestones and Projects

Library

A rare resource in the country, the library allows students and teachers to immerse themselves in the world of books.

Kitchen and Dining Hall

Every school day, students from kindergarten to 4th grade receive a warm, cooked meal, which for many is their only regular daily meal.

Dormitory

Since 2016, the dormitory has housed students who would otherwise walk 20–25 kilometers because there are no closer schools. Currently, 20 boys live here.

Classrooms

Alongside core subjects like math, literature, hygiene, Portuguese, English, and French, students also receive a more profound education. As the Betel School’s motto, “Construindo Vidas” (“Building Lives”), suggests, the students are introduced to God’s message and Jesus’ love.
Although Christian-based, the school operates non-denominationally and is open to all youth, regardless of religion or background.

Support and Community Impact

Pharmacy

The school also operates a small pharmacy where students and teachers can access free medicine, first aid, toothbrushes, and toothpaste as needed.

New School

This year, another rural school, Escola Evangélica Emanuel Campaz, also received support. The tuition for 44 students at that school is covered.

Thanks to Hungarian supporters, 334 students began the school year this year.