The First Grader, which screens tonight at 8 PM at the TIFF Bell Lightbox, will be introduced by Dickson Eyoh, Associate Professor, Political Science and African Studies at the University of Toronto. Professor Eyoh is an expert in the politics and economy of Sub-Saharan Africa. He has co-edited several books, including Decentralization and The Politics of Urban Development in West Africa (2007); Ethnicity and Democracy in Africa (2004); and the Encyclopedia of 20th Century African History (2003).
The First Grader was inspired by the true story of Kimani Nganga Maruge, a farmer in Western Kenya who led the way in the fight for universal free education in that country. Maruge become the oldest person on record to start primary school when he enrolled in Kapkenduywa primary school, in Eldoret, at the age of 84. A veteran of the Mau Mau independence movement, Maruge never had the opportunity to go to school when he was younger.
Due to overwhelming demand The First Grader has moved to a larger cinema within the TIFF Bell Lightbox complex. Please check with the Box Office or attendants for the new location.
To purchase tickets for tonight’s screening of The First Grader phone 416-599-TIFF (8433) or 1-888-599-8433. Tickets can also be purchased, in person, at TIFF Bell Lightbox Box Office, Reitman Square, 350 King Street West, Toronto.
The First Grader is co-presented with The Institute for Contemporary Culture.
