Located approximately 137 miles southwest of Addis Ababa, Ottoro is an impoverished, lush, rural village. In 2006, the regional government drew attention to the lack of basic services in this community, which resulted in Ottoro being chosen for the development of what is now Adams Thermal Academy of Ottoro. Following the electrification of the village and the digging of a water well, two rooms were rented and teachers were hired to launch the school.

Orphaned and other vulnerable children living in extreme poverty, whom would otherwise have no educational opportunity, were targeted for enrollment. The official project plan was to have tuition-free enrollment and to add a grade level annually until the school reaches full secondary school status (K-9). The 2018-2019 school year saw the addition of 9th grade.

There are hundreds of applicants each year and class sizes are consistently at capacity. There are few opportunities in this area, especially for girls and for more than 520 students who struggle with the loss of parents, poor nutrition and disease. Because the children often come to class in tattered clothing and without shoes, uniforms were distributed. Tuition and all school materials are also provided free of charge.

Thanks to the help of dedicated supporters, the school now has a library and nurse's station. For the first time this past year, each student received a free health screen and follow-up medical attention as needed. Supporters have also contributed to clean water catchments, acquisition of medical supplies and completion of classroom blocks.

The enrollment process for the school is done in coordination with the local government, who help the Academy identify the children most in need, who may otherwise not have the opportunity of education. Adams Thermal Foundation is actively seeking sponsors for students so that more children can attend the Academy. Click on the Sponsorship tab to see unsponsored children now.