Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Wilson
Published on 2024-02-27 11:58:45
Children in Liberia are facing a heartbreaking reality as they are forced to become the breadwinners for their disabled parents. On a daily basis, kids as young as five are seen leading visually impaired parents through crowded streets, begging for alms to provide food for their families. Despite being given the responsibility to care for their disabled parents, these children have not been able to attend school and receive a formal education.
Many of these kids have expressed their desire to go to school, but they are unable to do so because they are forced to spend their days on the streets, supporting their parents in their begging activities. Little Medley Brown, a 10-year-old girl, shared her story of dropping out of school to care for her blind mother after her uncle abandoned the family. She expressed her frustration at not being able to continue her education and fulfill her dream of becoming a police officer.
Similarly, Peace Gibson, a blind child, has never had the opportunity to attend school due to his father’s blindness and his mother’s absence. Despite his longing to learn and be in a school environment, he is unable to do so. The heartbreaking stories of these children highlight the challenges they face in accessing education and securing a better future for themselves.
The children who are taking care of their disabled parents are calling on the government, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, First Lady Kartumu Boakai, and other philanthropists to intervene in their situation. They believe that with proper support and assistance, they can have the opportunity to go back to school and pursue their dreams.
It is clear that education is a fundamental right for every child, regardless of their background or circumstances. These children in Liberia are pleading for a chance to receive an education and improve their prospects for the future. By investing in their education and providing them with the support they need, we can empower these children to become future leaders of their country and break the cycle of poverty and disability that they currently face.
Read the original article on New Republic Liberia
