School goes on!
One who receives a good education: has a better chance on the job market, can make informed decisions and can stand up for his or her own rights. War and oppression that went on for decades have left their marks on Cambodia’s educational system. The number of secondary schools is especially insufficient: when it comes to these, only 30 % of boys and 22 % of girls can attend.
Many families simply cannot afford to send their children to secondary school. After basic needs are met, there is no money available for the obligatory school uniform, textbooks or writing materials. Often, long distances to school are also an obstacle.
Education is the Way Out of Poverty
“Education is the best way, the only way out of poverty,” says Shubha Murthi, Continental Director of SOS Children’s Villages in Asia. “If there is to be long-term change, we have to make sure that children – girls and boys equally – can finally go to school.”
To this end, SOS Children’s Villages are building a new SOS secondary school in Phnom Penh, near the recently opened elementary school and across from the SOS Children’s Village. The new SOS secondary school will accommodate some 500 pupils with 12 classrooms, each having some 640 square feet. In addition, there will be three science laboratories for subjects such as chemistry, physics and biology, a language laboratory, a computer room, a dance room, a craft room and a library.
The main goal is to let children and youths realize their potential in the new SOS secondary school and thus build the foundation for a promising future.
Building Blocks for a Better Future
- Chalkboards for the 12 classrooms cost 840 euros.
- 1,142 euros will provide chairs for 40 pupils in a classroom.
- A classroom for 40 pupils can be completely equipped for 3,000 euros (chairs, desks, chalkboard, cabinet, shelves etc.)
- 5,550 euros will already finance half of the architects’ and engineers’ fees for construction of the school.
Education is the key to the future. By donating to the secondary school in Phnom Penh, you will help give children a jump-start into a self-sufficient life. Donation Link