Archive for category: Children

Information and stories addressing children.

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Tiny Food Gardens for Children’s Homes in Suriname

Tiny Food GardensEconomic hardships due to inflation and the impacts of COVID-19 increased the need for initiatives to improve access to healthy food for children’s homes in Suriname. Ambassadors of Forest93 Suriname have established Tiny Food Gardens and First Food Forests to address this pressing issue.

Forest 93

Suriname is the smallest country in South America and simultaneously the world’s most forested country, according to CEOWORLD. Its forests, stewarded by the Indigenous and Maroon population, cover more than 93% of the country. Green Growth Suriname (GGS) established Forest93 as a national campaign to strengthen the public’s connection to nature and raise awareness of the need for nature legislation and novel approaches to data collection.

The name of this campaign serves as a reminder of the Surinamese government’s pledge made at COP-23 to maintain 93% forest cover. In 2021, successful fundraising by GGS enabled the launch of the Tiny Food Gardens initiative. In 2023, the Fernandes Bottling Company donated funds through a Christmas Caravan fundraising to GGS to expand the Tiny Food Gardens program.

Tiny Food Gardens

The Tiny Food Gardens program (TFG) launched during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, a time of increased hardship. Following the economic struggles caused by inflation and a plunge in gross domestic product per capita in 2016, Suriname faced further challenges due to the pandemic. According to the International Labor Organization’s Suriname Mid-term Market Labor Policy 2022-2025, unemployment rose and more businesses failed in 2021 compared to 2019. These circumstances heightened the need for initiatives to improve access to healthy food, particularly for the vulnerable inhabitants of children’s homes in Suriname.

The TFG initiative provides gardening training, educational booklets to monitor plant growth and informative sessions on sustainable solutions to single-use plastic, such as using plastic bottles for planting, in children’s homes. With this knowledge, the homes can grow their spices and vegetables. TFG ensured the homes could run their gardens as independently as possible by training youths in woodwork to craft gardening tables using a “train-the-trainer” approach. To ensure proper project implementation, part of the group monitored the gardening activities in children’s homes in Suriname for the first six months.

Impact

Children’s homes had tiny gardens in the form of gardening tables created as part of a social program for incarcerated people. Forest93 reports that at least two gardening tables were delivered to six children’s homes in Paramaribo, Wanica and Commewijne districts. More than 150 children participated in the TFG program. They helped cultivate 53 small gardens. Eleven young people completed the train-the-trainer course, four of whom gained valuable experience monitoring the project.

In addition to learning gardening as an essential life skill, studies have shown that gardening benefits mental and physical health. Additionally, Forest93 allocated a budget to install water tanks for rainwater storage for irrigation after it became apparent that homes participating in the project experienced increased water bills.

Conclusion

The TFG program has helped children’s homes cut costs while providing healthy meals. This initiative, initiated by ambassadors of Forest93 Suriname, plays a significant role in encouraging youth and the wider community to reimagine the possibilities of creating food security. TFG teaches young people to maintain a garden and enables them to experience the (mental) health benefits of connecting with nature.

– Tanisha Groeneveld

Tanisha is based in Leeds, UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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The Current State of HIV/AIDS in Algeria

HIV/AIDS in Algeria
HIV/AIDS is a significant health issue in Algeria, affecting thousands of lives. Despite efforts to combat it, the disease remains a challenge for the nation. 

The Prevalence

Algeria has seen an increase in HIV/AIDS cases over the last few years. According to UNAIDS, 26,000 Algerian children and adults were reported as living with HIV in 2023. Newly recorded cases of HIV in children and adults increased by 2,100 cases between 2022 and 2023. 

Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing the disease and preventing its spread. The government and non-governmental organizations work tirelessly to raise awareness and provide medical support to those affected.

Support Programs

The Algerian government has implemented several initiatives to combat HIV/AIDS. These programs, such as The Global Fund, focus on education, prevention, and treatment. Additionally, free antiretroviral therapy is available to patients, ensuring they receive the necessary medications to manage their condition effectively.

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) also play a vital role in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Algeria. These organizations work at the grassroots level, providing education and support to communities.

They conduct workshops, distribute educational materials and offer counseling services to those affected by the disease. NGOs also collaborate with the government to implement nationwide awareness campaigns and improve access to health care services.

For example, The Kaiser Family Foundation is an NGO that focuses on various domestic and international health epidemics. This foundation specifically examines global health policies to better improve access to care for those living with HIV in the U.S. and overseas. 

The Impact of Stigma and Discrimination

Stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS remain significant challenges in Algeria. Many individuals face social isolation and rejection due to their HIV status. This stigma often prevents them from seeking the medical help they need.

To address this issue, awareness campaigns aim to educate the public about HIV/AIDS and reduce the stigma associated with the disease. By fostering a more inclusive society, Algeria can better support those affected by HIV/AIDS.

Access to Health Care Services and Technology

Access to health care services is essential for managing HIV/AIDS in Algeria. The government has established numerous health care centers across the country to provide testing, treatment and counseling services.

These centers offer free and confidential HIV testing, which helps to make sure that individuals can receive a diagnosis without fear of discrimination. Additionally, trained health care workers provide compassionate and non-judgmental care to those living with HIV/AIDS.

Technology plays a crucial role in advancing HIV/AIDS research in Algeria. Labs use hot plate magnetic stirrers to achieve accurate results, which is particularly useful in the research of HIV/AIDS.

These devices ensure precise temperature control and consistent mixing, leading to more reliable data. By leveraging advanced technology, researchers can develop better treatment options and improve the overall understanding of the disease.

Community Support and Involvement

Support groups and community centers provide a safe space for people to share their experiences and seek emotional support. These groups also offer practical assistance, such as help with medication adherence and access to health care services. By fostering a strong sense of community, Algeria can better support those affected by HIV/AIDS and improve their quality of life.

The fight against HIV/AIDS in Algeria requires a multifaceted approach. By addressing the stigma, improving education, and leveraging technology, the country can better support those affected by the disease. Continued efforts and collaboration are necessary for making progress in this ongoing battle.

– Kelly Schoessling

Kelly focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Aid in Gaza and Yemen: UK Government’s Partnership with Kuwait

Aid in Gaza and YemenIn a press release from September 4, 2024, the U.K. government announced a new partnership with Kuwait. This will consist of a joint funding totaling £4.5 million delivered to UNICEF that will allow them to continue their lifesaving aid in Gaza and Yemen.

The U.K.’s Minister for the Middle East, Hamish Falconer, highlighted the U.K. and Kuwait’s “shared commitment” to dealing with international humanitarian crises. Falconer also acknowledged the role that conflict has had to play in the crises in both Gaza and Yemen, declaring that the U.K. is “pushing for more lifesaving aid to reach those in desperate need,” the U.K. Government reports.

Conditions in Gaza

As an organization centered around children in need, Gaza is a priority for UNICEF. Approximately nine in 10 of Gaza’s population are internally displaced, and half of those 1.9 million people are children.

Children in Gaza are facing countless challenges. From lack of water and food, to fuel and medicine. They are left with injuries and struggle with displacement due to the destruction of their homes and have more than likely lost loved ones. The latest figure by the Palestinian Ministry of Health estimates that more than 14,000 children have been killed in Gaza, UNICEF reports. The conditions for those left are abysmal, meaning UNICEF’s aid in Gaza is essential now more than ever.

Obstacles to delivering aid have made UNICEF’s work in Gaza more difficult. Israel restricted the shipments of food and medicine into the region and this has created famine and starvation as land routes for aid are under strict inspection.

Despite this, UNICEF has been able to dispatch emergency supplies to those in Gaza – this includes water, medicine, and medical equipment. The organization’s programs are also facilitating basic mental health facilities to support children through the unimaginable horror of growing up amidst conflict and destruction, according to its website.

The Need for Aid in Yemen

The humanitarian crisis in Yemen is significant, with around 9.8 million children requiring at least one form of humanitarian assistance. Since April 2022, Yemen has witnessed a reduction in active conflict, meaning civilian casualties specifically have become less of a pressing concern. However, the country naturally continues to suffer as a result of living through nine years of conflict.

Issues in Yemen are numerous, with socioeconomic instability at the core of the country. During the ongoing struggle, children are particularly vulnerable to exploitation, abuse and child labor, according to UNICEF. Families struggle with displacement and exposure to the outbreak of disease. Millions, including children, face daily life with a lack of safe water and adequate sanitation and hygiene. Food is also scarce, causing a nutrition crisis, according to UNICEF.

UNICEF is on the ground to provide aid in Yemen, providing invaluable food and medical supplies that are treating severe acute malnutrition in children. The organization has managed to provide more than 2.5 million children with Vitamin A supplements every six months to combat malnutrition and has vaccinated more than 815,000 children against measles, according to its website.

What the Money Means for UNICEF

The combined £4.5 million will provide vital aid in Gaza and Yemen. The press release specified that this funding will contribute to efforts by UNICEF to restore water and sanitation systems in Gaza and support primary health care services in Yemen, according to the U.K. Government.

With the support of this funding, UNICEF’s work could aid 1 million people in need in Gaza, and a further 1.45 million in Yemen. The organization has publicly expressed its gratitude to the U.K. and Kuwait following the announcement. UNICEF Representative to the Gulf Area, Eltayeb Adam, described the funding as a “beacon of hope” that will “have a transformative impact on the lives of children and families in Gaza and Yemen,” the U.K. Government reports.

– Maeve Relihan

Maeve is based in Birmingham, UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Improving Conditions for Children with Disabilities in Pakistan

children with disabilities in pakistan
Internal and external conflicts have clouded Pakistan’s current climate. Recorded as of 2023, Pakistan’s political, economic and social crises have taken a toll on the state. Food insecurity and the increase of inflation have led to an outcry of suffering Pakistani people. According to the World Report 2024, the prison system is a breeding ground for the mistreatment of Pakistani people who seek mental health support. Additionally, children with disabilities are facing challenges in Pakistan. Here is what Family Network is doing to help children with disabilities in Pakistan.

Children With Disabilities in Pakistan

The BMC Health Services Research reports that “children with disabilities make up around 150 million of the billion people with disabilities in the world.”  Furthermore, the research articulated a big concern among sub-Saharan Africans who are concerned about their children being treated badly by others in the community, causing them to hide or not seek proper treatment for their children. These stigmas exist everywhere, including the Western world, and they harm children with developmental needs by neglecting their ability to have access to the special care they need. Oftentimes, developmental disabilities affect a child’s cognitive growth, potentially hindering the development of their nervous system, behavior and motor skills. Moreover, certain Mexican, Haitian and Latin American cultures may see a disability (physical or intellectual) as a curse, further ostracizing children with additional needs and developmental disorders.

Oftentimes children with disabilities experience neglect in their formative years due to a lack of resources. This issue is ever present in Pakistan as it is riddled with all sorts of conflict. Children who have additional needs often develop at a slower rate than their peers (talking, walking, sitting later than their peers).

Developmental disorders can cause society to ostracize these children as they are unable to conform to societal norms. This can be a burden to these Pakistani parents in rural lower class areas as the children with disabilities may not be able to take care of themselves, placing the pressure on an extremely codependent relationship between parent and child (including but not limited to; not knowing when danger is prevalent, being unable to function by themselves/without a parent present). According to FaNs “Over 6% of children in Pakistan have developmental disorders” Treatment is oftentimes consolidated in urban areas, leaving the rural Pakistani children with these developmental disorders to suffer.

The Family Network for Kids

 The Family Network for Kids (FaNs) has committed to bettering life for the children of Pakistan, primarily those with disabilities. FaNs is an organization and supportive network that uses technology to aid people in rural Pakistan who have a child with disabilities (developmental disorders) to provide sufficient care. Using mhGAP tech, FaNs is training families through interactive technology to educate and equip society/families to cater and care for children with disabilities.

Roleplay technology that plays scenarios through three animated children who teach the dismantling of stigma, as well as allow parents to practice parental management and problem-solving skills. Once a family passes the training, they become champions who will then further equip their communities with the skills to care for children through a peer-supervised group focused on building community. These champions have monthly check-ins with health specialists, keeping the program in order while pursuing the self-sustenance of the champion families. Implemented in Rawalpindi Pakistan, roughly 70 trained families, 36 of those being trained “family volunteers” who do further diligence to the community as they are training 270 families to properly care for their children.

Looking Ahead

Every child dreams and deserves to be understood regardless of their circumstance. FaNs is working to ensure that every child with a disability in Pakistan has the support system to do so. Cultural stigmas contribute to the exclusion of children with developmental disabilities being shunned from society. By doing the work to abolish cultural stigma, the Family Network for Kids is making rural Pakistan a safe space for kids who are normally ignored and taught to suppress themselves. By giving children the space to be themselves, the world becomes a place filled with authentic adults who can focus on bringing change to the world instead of changing themselves for the world.

– Petralyn Yeboah-Manson

Petralyn is based in New Jersey, USA and focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Organizations that Help Children in Costa Rica

Help Children in Costa RicaCosta Rica is a small country in Central America. It has a trade-based upper-middle-income economy, but poverty is still prevalent in the country, especially for children. Approximately one in three children under the age of 18 lives in poverty, especially those in single-parent households. The percentage of children and youth living in monetary poverty stands at 35%. After the COVID-19 pandemic, the average income for households decreased, only exacerbating the problem. So 30% of households had to reduce their food portions to make up for the loss of wages during the pandemic. In 2021, around 84,490 youths were victims of violence. UNICEF’s studies show that 46% of youths between the ages of 2-14 were disciplined using physical and/or psychological punishment, SOS Children’s Village reports. To combat this child poverty and violence, three organizations are working to help children in Costa Rica.

SOS Children’s Villages

This organization focuses on helping children in Costa Rica, specifically in certain towns within the country. One such city is Limon, known as Costa Rica’s murder capital, according to SOS Children’s Village. The city’s homicide rate is 35.9 per 100,000 people, while the homicide rate in the country is 17.2 per 100,000 people. Conflicts between organized crime groups cause most murders in Limon, and children are lured into these gangs, where they transport and sell drugs.

The organization creates “children’s villages” in Costa Rica, and in Limon specifically, to create a safe community for children to grow up in, especially children who cannot stay with their families. It also tries to keep in close contact with the children’s original families so that if they can return to their own homes, the transition process will go smoothly, according to its website. The children in these villages grow up together and make life-long relationships with each other.

Currently, in Limon village, there are 5 youths, but the organization has supported more than 100 young people. SOS Children’s Villages makes sure to provide the children with education and access to health care. In helping these children in Costa Rica grow up in a healthy environment to become confident adults, the team at the organization encourages each youth to make a plan for the future, according to SOS Children’s Villages. When these youths come of age, it also helps them prepare for employment by hosting workshops and training where they can join projects with local businesses.

Hope Partners International

Hope Partners is a Christian organization working to help children in Costa Rica. It works to improve the education, safety, and nutrition of children. The organization opened three new classrooms and a computer lab in its “Hope Centers” to allow more children to have access to education, according to its website. It also supports children eager to learn through mentorship and educational classes so that they can attend college or vocational school.

The organization also emphasizes the safety of its Hope Centers, while also providing a balanced meal for all students who visit the center. The group aims to relieve the children of some of the “day-to-day burdens from their shoulders and [provide] a consistent place of refuge and nourishment,” according to its website. Through its work, Hope Partners International hopes to create “healthier, more vibrant communities” in Costa Rica, starting by reducing child poverty.

Children Incorporated

Children Incorporated focuses on individual children through a sponsorship program to alleviate child poverty, one child at a time. They appreciate the financial support from their sponsors, but the relationship that could be developed between them could also be deep and special. The monthly sponsorship rate is $35, which buys the children school supplies, food, clothing and access to health care. Through this, children can go to school and be educated, according to Children Incorporated.

Volunteer coordinators who are physically in these local communities in Costa Rica are there to guide and help the children. They hand out hygiene items, clothes, shoes, and such essential items to the children, guide them through education, and work to improve health and nutrition, all with the sponsors’ support.

Ways to Help Children in Costa Rica

These three organizations are working to help children in Costa Rica. Poverty and violence often go hand in hand, so some groups focus on keeping youths safe from harm and gang activity, while others work to bring them out of poverty first. As these groups show, there are many different ways one could do that, either through community centers, children’s villages, or a more individualistic approach, but as long as it helps one more youth in Costa Rica, it is a work well worth the effort.

– Hannah Chang

Hannah is based in Philadelphia, PA, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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ChildFund in Brazil

ChildFund in BrazilBrazil is one of the largest and most populated countries in South America; it has more than 200 million people within its population. Yet, Brazil scored 48.9 on the Gini index for economic inequality and a significant proportion suffers from discrimination, and income inequality and around 24% of people live below the poverty line. ChildFund is a global charity that focuses on supporting children suffering by providing education, better access to health care or improving the cleanliness of drinking water where possible.

Education and Youth

Due to the effects of COVID-19, the education system was in dire need of support, UNICEF stated that, in 2022, 2 million children from the ages of 11 to 19 had not completed basic education and had not returned after the closures from COVID-19. ChildFund in Brazil have been persistent in trying to eradicate the education system to make a more positive environment; it has started introducing awareness workshops within the community schools. Additionally, more than 12,000 young people took part in ChildFund’s “Skilled and Involved Youth” projects in 2015. The organization conducted several workshops focusing on natural disasters and violence.

There are several campaigns that ChildFund runs and networking sessions to get more young people involved in current affairs which also, opens more avenues for young people to be involved in decisions directly relating to them. ChildFund is working alongside local partners (OSPs) to encourage children to have a routine to stick to and they have several social groups that support children in several activities, such as dance and judo. OSPs have also created several play kits to support the children with art supplies and they supply the correct age-appropriate items. All of these initiatives help support the children of Brazil.

Health Care

Brazil has purposefully attempted to rebuild the health care system after the devastating disaster of COVID-19 and the government’s focus has been on achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Although there are several improvements to health care and being more available there are still shortages in public funding, suboptimal resource allocation and weaknesses in health care delivery persist. Those who are most vulnerable to these issues are children, the elderly and those with terminal illnesses; thus, ChildFund aims to improve the health care systems for children. In 2015 ChildFund in Brazil created a “Taking Care of the First Years of Life” program which has benefitted more than 8,000 children in 31 different areas in Brazil, according to its website.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was very difficult to support people physically however, ChildFund partnered with local staff who could help them connect with families virtually and provide at-home kits for caregivers and educators. It also hand-delivered food to more than 7,700 families including baby supplies such as baby cribs and clothes.

Safe Drinking Water

There have been several severe droughts in the southeastern areas of Brazil and these conditions have created a shortage in water for agriculture and clean, drinking water for people, according to ChildFund. ChildFund in Brazil has constantly worked with local partners and organizations to have a better monitoring system in place for when these events occur and in particular making sure the water quality is clean for drinking.

According to ChildFund, it collects regular samples and tests for bacteria and any other pollution and it has created a backup system to be more prepared and also, encourage others to be aware of these issues and raise awareness. The World Food Programme (WFP) Centre of Excellence against Hunger and ChildFund in Brazil signed a partnership to promote food and nutritional security for children and find solutions to fight hunger. ChildFund has always tried to defend children’s rights and they are an important asset to building sustainable solutions for children.

– Charlotte Johnston

Charlotte is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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4 Charities Operating in Jamaica 

Charities Operating in Jamaica 
Jamaica is a diverse and culturally rich island known for its music and natural attractions. It is the third-largest island in the Caribbean and has a population of about 2.5 million. However, COVID-19, changing weather patterns and other governmental issues have resulted in environmental, educational and economic gaps. Post-pandemic, Jamaica’s economy has taken a hit. Tourism, which is a large part of the Jamaican economy, has plummeted and Jamaica’s poverty rate increased by 4%. This article features four impactful charities operating in Jamaica that strive to help resolve these issues and improve the quality of life on the island.

Children First Agency

One of the major charities operating in Jamaica is Children’s First Agency, which is a nonprofit charity that supports children, mobilizes them to overcome poverty and gives them educational tools to improve their lives. Its mission is to allow children who may not have had equal opportunities to realize their full potential. More than 190,000 children in Jamaica live in poverty, with rural areas having higher poverty rates, while 85% of children experience violent discipline and 30% are born to mothers under 17. This charity aims to assist families that are not sufficiently supported by their environment.

The nonprofit has two main projects: the Youth Wellness Center and the Bashy Bus. The Youth Wellness Center focuses on educating children on their healthcare needs by giving them knowledge that helps them make informed decisions. The center offers education and vocational skills training, job placements and support services. The Bashy Bus is a bus that provides reproductive health information and resources to teenagers. It is the first mobile bus service for reproductive health.

Issa Trust Foundation

Couples Resorts founded the Issa Trust Foundation in 2005 with the mission to promote the well-being of Jamaican people. The organization strives to assist with the needs of children and families, advocating for improved medicine and education. Besides fostering a sense of community and support for the impoverished, the charity has a focus on pediatric care.

Issa Trust Foundation’s 10th pediatric medical initiative showed more than 1,000 children being treated with more than 41 volunteers taking part for treatments. The charity also offers free health lectures, as well as providing eye care and glasses for children in need. A pharmacist intern Shanique Powell is an example of a Jamaican-born citizen returning to Jamaica to counsel and help needy families. Powell says, “Coming back has reminded me of where I am from.” This opportunity to reconnect with her culture and improve upon her home country would not have been possible without the Issa Trust Foundation and her story is only one in many.

Food for the Poor

Food for the Poor is a global charity that strives to assist impoverished families by providing food, housing, clean water and more. In Jamaica, 17.1% of citizens live below the poverty line and 7% of children under 5 suffer from malnutrition. Although the charity is global, Jamaica was the first country in their initiative in 1982. Since then, FFTP has remained steadfast in helping relieve Jamaica’s poverty. In 2022, it implemented two income-generating projects, provided 68 computers to children in Angel of Hope’s Children Homes, provided a rainwater harvesting system in a school and more. In 2024, the charity gave more than 32.4 million meals to Jamaica and contributed to the building and expansion of more than 322 schools.

Smile a While Foundation

Smile a While Foundation is a nonprofit organization geared towards providing therapy for special needs children in Jamaica. The founder, Joanne Oates, was inspired to help children who may not be able to get the support they need. In Jamaica, 162,800 people reported having a self-identified mental illness. Children under 14 make up 21% of this group. However, developing countries often don’t have the resources or infrastructure to provide sufficient help.

Between 76% – 85% of people in these countries with serious mental illness do not receive the help they need. The Jamaican government has tried to reduce the reliance on institutional care, use more licensed professionals, and emphasize community care. Smile a While Foundation is an example of a progressive step forward. In 2023, the charity opened a splinting clinic, recruited new therapists with specializations in autism, and more.

Looking Ahead

These four charities operating in Jamaica are essential contributors to alleviating Jamaica’s economic, educational and environmental issues. With the support of donations and volunteers and the vision of these nonprofit leaders, Jamaica will continue to improve and strive for a better island for all its citizens.

– Sofia Hattiangadi

Sofia is based in New York City, NY, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Transforming Education: School Feeding Programs in Malawi

Transforming Education in Malawi: School Feeding ProgramsSchool feeding programs in Malawi, implemented by the World Food Program (WFP) in partnership with the Government of Malawi, have played a transformative role in improving educational outcomes, particularly in the country’s most food-insecure districts. Since its inception in 1999, the program has been targeting approximately 600,000 children across seven districts: Chikwawa, Dedza, Mangochi, Phalombe, Nsanje, Salima and Zomba.

Boosting School Enrollment and Attendance

Feeding programs have a clear and immediate effect on increasing school enrollment and attendance rates. In an environment where many families face food insecurity, the guarantee of a meal when children attend school provides a strong incentive for parents to send their children to school. Data from the WFP reveals that attendance rates in schools with feeding programs have improved from 77% to 92%, which is a drastic increase. Additionally, these programs have led to a 5% decline in absenteeism and a 2.9% reduction in dropout rates. 

Promoting Gender Equality

In Malawi, as in many developing countries, girls are generally disadvantaged when it comes to accessing education. Negative cultural practices, early marriages and domestic chores often make it difficult for girls to attend school. However, school feeding programs have made significant progress in bridging the gender gap in education. The implementation of the United Nations Joint Program on Girls’ Education, which includes the provision of varied school meals, has led to a notable decrease in girls’ dropout rates, from 15.6% to 5.2%. These programs help alleviate some of the economic burdens on families by ensuring that girls receive at least one meal a day, encouraging parents to support their daughters’ education. 

Enhancing Academic Performance

The benefits of school feeding programs extend beyond simply getting children to school—they also play a crucial role in enhancing students’ ability to learn and perform academically. Malnutrition, which affects cognitive development, is a significant barrier to learning. By providing nutritious meals, these programs help ensure that children are better able to focus, participate in class and retain information. 

Overcoming Challenges and Ensuring Sustainability

Since 1999, Malawi’s school meals programs have continued to grow but have not been able to reach all students. The home-grown school feeding strategy has been important in promoting education and increasing economic welfare by providing nutritious food to 605,000 children while supporting 35,000 smallholder farmers. Supported by Norway, the European Union (EU) and Iceland, this investment reveals an impressive 20:1 return on every dollar, demonstrating progress in education, nutrition and local economies.

These achievements have not been without challenges. In developing countries like Malawi, reliance on international grants could create instability and unpredictability in operations. Many schools also face infrastructural issues, such as inadequate cooking facilities, lack of water supply and insufficient electricity for meal preparation and serving. The use of wood as fuel contributes to deforestation and other environmental problems. Despite the benefits of these programs, food insecurity remains a major barrier to both school enrollment and completion. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including long-term funding, improved infrastructure and the adoption of less environmentally harmful fuel sources.

Looking Forward

School feeding programs in Malawi have significantly improved education, boosting enrollment, attendance and academic performance, particularly for girls. The home-grown initiative further benefits local economies by supporting smallholder farmers. However, challenges like funding instability, poor infrastructure and environmental concerns remain. Addressing these ongoing issues can potentially sustain and expand the program’s impact, ensuring a brighter future for Malawi’s children and communities.

– Aneela Agha

Aneela is based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Bahar Charity: Combating Child Poverty in Iran

Child Poverty in IranChild poverty remains a pressing issue in Iran, affecting the lives of countless children and families. Material poverty is particularly prevalent in Iran, with significant disparities in access to essential services and resources, particularly in rural areas. Around 30% of the Iranian population lives in poverty, which leaves many children at risk. Rural children, particularly girls, face greater barriers to accessing education, health care and adequate nutrition, creating a cycle of poverty that is difficult to break.

This widespread poverty has far-reaching implications, including limited access to quality education, health care and social services, all of which are critical for the healthy development of children. Against this backdrop, organizations like Bahar Charity, a student-run group at the University of Toronto, Canada, have stepped in to make a tangible difference in the lives of disadvantaged children in Iran.

Bahar Charity

Founded in 2016, Bahar Charity was created by a group of friends in response to a natural disaster in Iran. This event spurred them to take action. They created a platform through which they could provide meaningful support to people back in their home country. As Nafiseh Ghoroghchian, the current president of Bahar Charity, explains, “Our vision is to build bridges between the North American, especially the Iranian community and Iran… to keep awareness of the challenges back home and provide help where we can.”

The charity aims to connect the Iranian diaspora in Canada, particularly the students and alums at the University of Toronto, with communities in Iran to support children who are struggling with poverty. The organization strives to foster a sense of solidarity and empathy among young Iranian Canadians while providing tangible assistance to those in need.

Partnerships and Collaborations

One of the most significant partnerships that Bahar Charity has developed is with Paradise Charity. This registered Canadian charity has been operating since 2001. Paradise Charity collaborates with nine nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) across different provinces in Iran, identifying underprivileged children and connecting them with sponsors in Canada. This partnership has allowed Bahar Charity to reach a wider audience and bring more support to the children in need.

Through this collaboration, Bahar Charity has established a child sponsorship program. It enables donors to sponsor a child in Iran for a minimum of $30 per month. The funds are primarily used to support the child’s education but can also be allocated for other necessities, such as health care, therapy or even household needs like repairing essential appliances. As of now, Bahar Charity has successfully gathered around 40 sponsors for approximately 60 children, ensuring that they receive continuous support for their education and well-being.

Key Initiatives and Programs

Bahar Charity has developed several initiatives to bridge the gap between the Iranian community in Canada and the underprivileged communities in Iran. Some of the key programs include:

  • Child Sponsorship Program: In collaboration with Paradise Charity, Bahar Charity has facilitated a sponsorship program that provides financial aid to underprivileged children. This program focuses on supporting children who have lost a parent or come from low-income families. It ensures they have access to education and basic needs. Indeed, the charity has managed to sponsor 60 children through the contributions of around 40 sponsors, creating a sustainable source of support for these children.
  • Fundraising Campaigns: Bahar Charity has organized multiple fundraising events to provide emergency relief in times of crisis. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, it raised funds to supply oxygen tanks to low-income provinces in Iran suffering from a lack of medical supplies. Similarly, it conducted fundraising activities to support families affected by floods and other natural disasters in Iran.
  • Educational and Cultural Initiatives: Bahar Charity regularly hosts seminars, discussions and cultural events to raise awareness about the issues faced by children in Iran. These events serve to educate the broader community at the University of Toronto about Iranian culture. Additionally, they highlight the challenges faced by disadvantaged communities. Notably, it organized a photographic exhibition featuring photographs taken by underprivileged children in Iran. The event was a success, showcasing the artistic talents of the children while raising funds for their support.
  • Advocacy and Awareness: Beyond financial support, Bahar Charity is committed to raising awareness about child poverty in Iran and mobilizing support from the Iranian-Canadian community. It organizes seminars, talks and documentary screenings to foster discussions on relevant social issues, such as homelessness and education inequality in Iran. These events are open to both Iranian and non-Iranian audiences, helping to build a more inclusive community at the University of Toronto.

The Future of Child Poverty in Iran

Bahar Charity has made remarkable progress since its inception. It has built a solid partnership with Paradise Charity, established successful fundraising campaigns and developed programs that directly benefit children in need. Looking ahead, it aims to increase its volunteer base and seek more collaborations with other organizations. With more hands-on projects, such as workshops and one-on-one tutoring sessions for Iranian children, it hopes to make a more direct and meaningful impact.

– Jennifer Lee

Jennifer is based in Toronto, ON, Canada and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Improving Education in Nepal

education in NepalIn the last few decades, the education system in Nepal has improved thanks to the help from various international organizations. In 2016, the country passed a bill elongating mandatory education from five years to eight years. Additionally, the primary schools’ net enrollment rate reached 97%. However, only half of the students in third, fifth and eighth grade meet the academic standards and the youth literacy rate is 84.8%, compared to the global average of 89.6%, according to the World Education News + Reviews (WENR).

The Issue

Overall, education in Nepal struggles in a few facets. For one, socioeconomic, ethnic and gender differences exist and often pose challenges in the educational system, according to UNICEF. Secondly, the actual education within primary and secondary schools is quite inconsistent. Also, environmental pressures exist, due to the high earthquake risk, and only 11% of schools are earthquake-resistant, UNICEF reports. UNICEF’s partnership with Nepal and its government has made progress, but there is room for improvement.

In 2015, Nepal was hit by two consecutive earthquakes, damaging more than 9,300 schools, and the enrollment rate for schools went down by 6%. At this time, 700,000 people were plunged into poverty, posing a challenge regarding education, WENR reports. Most Nepalis cannot afford private education, but now, even public education is a struggle for low-income households. As a result, a vast gap between socioeconomic groups exists in schools; 65% of the higher-income students were progressing as expected, while of the lower-income students, only 12% were reaching that target, according to UNICEF.

Additionally, access to education is a dire problem. The geographical remoteness within Nepal causes accessibility to schools to be extremely challenging, solely based on proximity. Long distances from schools are the reason for several students dropping out, according to WENR.

The number of female students dropping out is substantially higher than male students. Firstly, child marriage still exists in Nepal, leading to several families marrying off their girls at younger ages. Secondly, female education in Nepal is a pressing issue, as it is not perceived as a priority. According to WENR, in Nepal, there is still a belief that women do not require an education.

Education in Nepal: Solutions

The World Bank’s Program for Results (PforR) aims to help the Nepali government implement more into the education sector. The School Sector Development Program (SSDP) focuses on supporting the Nepali Government’s own SSDP, the PforR and has nine joint-financing partners. After five years of the SSDP, ending in 2022, the rate of students reaching twelfth grade increased by 21.6% for boys and 33.9% for girls, the number of out-of-school children decreased by 6.76%, and in the 15 “most disadvantaged districts,” enrollment increased by more than 7%, according to the World Bank.

Overall, nearly 8.1 million students, nationally, benefitted from the SSDP. With the support of the World Bank, the SSDP created targeted scholarships, which allowed girls and disadvantaged children to continue their educational careers, the World Bank reports.

Additionally, UNICEF partnered with the SSDP as another JFP to improve the quality of early childhood education (ECE). Right now, enrollment for ECEs is only 51%, so UNICEF is also working towards increasing accessibility. Another goal is to support students entering school later in their careers, as well as those choosing alternative educational paths, including informal classes, etc. Along with that, strengthening the overall safety plan of schools (Comprehensive School Safety Master Plans), and checking in on out-of-school students (often those with disabilities) are on its list as well, UNICEF reports.

Overall, with help from UNICEF and the World Bank, education in Nepal is slowly improving. However, there is still scope for improvement. At this point, 770,000 children do not attend school, according to UNICEF. Working towards getting more children in school and jumpstarting their careers is the next step to improving Nepal’s education as a whole.

– Lakshya Anand

Lakshya is based in Bellevue, WA, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr