Educational Development

In most of sub-Saharan Africa, the educational sector is the hardest hit as a result of AIDS. Teachers are dying at an alarming rate. The Minister of Basic Education, Culture, Youth and Sport in Namibia has expressed his concern to the Namibian Parliament. More teachers are dying due to AIDS than graduate from tertiary training institutions. The result is devastating.

The general standard of education is falling. There are often as many as 45 learners in a class. Individual attention is not possible. Once a child has fallen behind, catching up is very difficult. Extra afternoon classes are given to children in our care so that they can cope with the demands of their education.

Some children stay out of school because of family problems related to AIDS. CHI has set the goal to create schools where some AIDS orphans can be cared for and given a second chance as far as their schooling is concerned.

Many teenagers are now the head of households. There are no adults around to teach family norms and traditional customs. CHI endeavours to develop CHILDREN'S VILLAGES where teens and children will be taught how to make a living in rural areas: build traditional houses, plough the fields and care for livestock. We not only want to help educate children but also see them giving glory to God through living balanced lives.

Children will also be placed voluntarily with CHI in private hostels, registered with the Ministry of Basic Education, Culture, Youth and Sport.

We will seek government support wherever we can and with the help of the Church worldwide bring about the change needed to help Africa survive the onslaught of AIDS.

Hope

Please hover over the petals to see how CHI plans to tackle AIDS