Student on a high for Africa funds

Published on 20/02/2012 12:07

A STUDENT from Edinburgh is preparing to tackle Africa’s highest mountain to raise money for some of the continent’s poorest people.

John Macdonald will climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, with all proceeds from the trip going to the Mount Kilimanjaro First Aid Community Programme.

The 19-year-old, currently studying for an HNC in sports coaching at West Lothian College, will also be teaching first aid to children at a Tanzanian orphanage and helping to raise the standard of living in nearby communities.

He will raise £2700 to take part in the trip and has begun organising fundraising events, including a non-uniform day at his former high school, a race night at his football club and a Zumba night.

Mr Macdonald said: “Getting involved and being able to give my time to people who need it is a hundred times better than just donating money.”