Back To School Days!

School reintegration is one of the most important education-based functions that Friends-International programs perform. Ensuring that children can access their right to education, and can be supported to stay in school is of vital importance to building their futures in a sustainable manner. The following update on reintegration processes comes from Laura, the Technical Coordinator of the Kaliyan Mith Siem Reap program in Cambodia.

“Last week Kaliyan Mith held two events as part of our school reintegration project. At these events, we distributed educational materials to children who will be starting public school in November.

First up,  on 19th October we held an event at our center in Taksen T’bong. There, 65 students were provided with books, pens and pencils, bags and uniforms.

Some children were also given bicycles to help them to travel to school. Not only were 45 proud parents in attendance at the event, but also the Kaliyan Mith Program Director, the School Directors, the Commune Chief and representatives from the Department of Education were all present to see the handover ceremony.

On the 20th we held a similar event at our centre in Chong Kneas community. Around 30 new students received gifts of the essential educational materials that will help them with their studies. This event was also attended by parents, Education sector officials and the Commune Chief.

In total, Kaliyan Mith will distribute ‘back to school’ packs to 1,280 children across Siem Reap. These bags, books, pens and uniforms (which have been generously provided by our great supporter Smart Communications) are an important factor in ensuring that vulnerable children have all the resources they need to be able to attend (and stay in) education. ”

There is more to come too – reintegration ceremonies will also take place in Phnom Penh in the near future, again with the valued support of our friends at Smart!