A board game to inspire the desire to learn

It's not easy being both a student and a refugee. That's what happened to Joel Baraka, who tells us (in English with French subtitles) how he experienced his move from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Uganda, where he grew up and still lives. His unschooled parents were adamant that he and his brother should go to school to improve their chances in life. Yet, as he describes it, classes in refugee camps are no fun: they're overcrowded with hungry children who write down the material and learn it by heart, with no human connection.

Growing up, Joel set out to find a way to help the younger generation of refugees in Uganda love school more. The solution came in the form of a board game. Together with other teachers, he designed "5 Sta-Z", a game that asks students to answer questions about the school curriculum - math, English, science and social studies. Each correct answer earns them points to advance on the star-shaped board. The aim is to be the first to reach the big yellow star in the center. But the game isn't just competitive. It includes bonus point rules if children help each other out when faced with difficult questions.

The stellar theme stems from the idea that, no matter where he or she comes from, every child has the potential to shine. In fact, during the game, players are encouraged to call each other by the name of one of the five constellations on the board. Use of the game has had beneficial effects on refugee schools in Uganda. The aim is to export the game to displaced populations elsewhere in Africa.

Running time: 11min15