This project demonstrates how community-based programs can be cost effective yet dramatically address essential education needs of 200 children in impoverished and conflict-torn communities. In these villages, most children get less than 5 years of education, which provides few basic skills needed for future employment and schools lack essential books and supplies. For $10 per child we provide basic classroom materials for 200 Muslim and Christian elementary students in two village schools.
Sulu province, Philippines with 420 schools is rated by the United Nations at the bottom of all global human development surveys, on a par with the poorest African countries. In many communities parents won't send their children to school because they can't afford the small cost of school supplies. Teachers use blackboards as their main teaching tool and children need to write what they are taught to benefit from their daily lessons. By providing needed school supplies we spark a model effort.
This project will provide school supplies for 200 of the most needy children in underserved schools for one school year. This will encourage parents to send their children to school, and create a positive model which can be expanded. The supplies will enable children to more fully participate in the learning process and to develop abilities to learn to read, write and calculate basic math needed for creating a business or finding a job. Their success inspires their entire families.
The long-term positive impact of this program empowers Christian and Muslim communities to learn basic education and job skills. School supplies will give meaning to education. Our presence and social media networks facilitate transparent communication and dispel fear that divide communities who feel alone and abandoned. Starting in schools, positive interaction and equal treatment of various cultural groups by AAI facilitates mutual respect and inspiration for peace building and development.
