When I joined them during exam prep, I saw how they improvised. Some would share a single textbook among several students, taking turns reading aloud and discussing what they understood. Others created their own flashcards from old papers, writing down formulas, vocab words, or practice problems, and quizzing each other to test memory. Even when the environment was noisy or crowded, they found ways to focus  reciting lessons aloud together, teaching younger siblings what they had learned, or turning songs and rhymes into study tools to remember concepts.

What struck me most was their creativity and resilience. One group used a small boat as a “study table,” balancing books while listening to a peer explain multiplication tables. Others drew diagrams in the sand or on scraps of cardboard when they couldn’t afford notebooks. I also noticed how they helped each other constantly, forming study groups where those who understood a topic would patiently explain it to others, making peer teaching a norm.

I tried to support them by bringing extra stationery, printed worksheets, and small portable lights, but what amazed me was that even without these, their determination never wavered. They woke up early, stayed up late, and prioritized studying over distractions, all with the hope of performing well in exams.

For me, seeing students in Makoko prepare for exams taught me a lesson in resourcefulness, resilience, and the value of community. It showed me that learning is less about having perfect resources and more about creativity, persistence, and support from those around you. Their dedication left a lasting impression, reminding me that with enough willpower and collaboration, obstacles can be turned into opportunities for growth.