Commemoration of the Day of the African Child: Promoting Quality Education for African Children

Remarks by Kutloano Mohlaba (17), World Vision Lesotho Child Advocate

Honored Guests, Ladies, and Gentlemen,

My name is Kutloano Mohlaba, and I am the Vice Chairperson of World Vision Lesotho's Rothe Area Programme Children's Committee. As a dedicated child advocate, I have played a significant role in child protection and advocacy initiatives. I work tirelessly to educate and sensitize communities on ending child marriage, child sexual exploitation and abuse, and promoting child protection reporting and referral mechanisms.

Today, I am honored to speak on behalf of the children of Africa at this important event, the African Union's commemoration of the Day of the African Child. I am here to share our perspectives on the right to quality education, a fundamental right that every child deserves.

Quality Education:

Quality education is more than just learning to read and write. It focuses on the whole child; socially, emotionally, mentally, physically, and cognitively regardless of their gender, race, or ethnicity. Quality education is measured by learners who are well-nourished and able to fully participate in class. It is supported by their families and communities and should be accessible to all children.

"Quality education is measured by learners who are well-nourished and able to fully participate in class. It is supported by their families and communities and should be accessible to all children." - Kutloano (17)

Challenges in Education:

A lot of children face big challenges when it comes to getting a good education. In many schools, the facilities are really bad; leaking roofs, broken windows, and doors that don’t work make it hard to learn, especially when the weather is bad. Sometimes there aren’t even enough desks, so students have to sit on the floor, which isn’t comfortable and makes it hard to focus.

Many students come to school hungry, and it’s really tough to concentrate when your stomach is growling. Hunger makes it hard to think and learn properly.

Bullying and discrimination are also huge problems. When children are picked on or treated unfairly, they don’t feel safe or happy at school. This can make them not want to go to school and can even lead to them dropping out. Money is another big issue. Some families can’t afford the tuition fees, so their children can’t go to school. And for children who live far away, the long walk to school can be exhausting and sometimes dangerous. This makes them miss school or drop out because it’s just too hard to get there every day.

All these problems make it really hard for children to get the education they deserve. Every child has the right to learn in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment, and we need to fix these issues to make sure that happens.

Opportunities and Progress:

Despite these challenges, we have seen positive steps being made in improving education in Lesotho. The government, in collaboration with communities and organizations like the Action Ireland Trust (AIT), has worked to build preschools and engage young minds early. These actions have ensured that children begin their educational journey at a young age, fostering a love for learning from the start.

Professional teachers have been provided to ensure that students receive high-quality instruction. This is crucial in delivering a curriculum that meets educational standards and addresses the diverse needs of all students. The presence of qualified teachers enhances the learning experience, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed academically.

"The presence of qualified teachers enhances the learning experience, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed academically."

The Ministry of Education and Training has also ensured that students are fed at school. Providing meals helps improve concentration and attendance, as children are more likely to attend school regularly when they are not hungry. This initiative directly impacts their ability to learn and thrive in a school environment.

For those from poor backgrounds, the government provides tuition fees and school materials, reducing the financial burden on families and ensuring that economic hardship does not prevent children from accessing education. Additionally, communities contribute by donating uniforms and stationery, further supporting children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Schools are also offering extra classes to support students further. These additional educational opportunities help students who may need extra help to keep up with their studies, ensuring that no child is left behind. This approach helps in leveling the playing field, allowing all children to have a fair chance at academic success.

These efforts collectively contribute to improving children’s access to education and uphold their right to learn. By addressing both the educational and socio-economic barriers, we are creating a more inclusive and supportive environment that ensures every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Recommendations:

To keep making education better, I believe the government should focus on a few key areas:

1. Infrastructure: We need to fix up school buildings and improve roads, especially in remote areas. When schools are in good shape, and roads are safe, students and teachers can get to school without any problems. Better buildings mean we stay dry when it rains and warm when it’s cold, making it easier to focus on learning.

2. Financial Support: Lots of kids can’t go to school because their families can’t afford it. The government should help with tuition fees and school supplies. This way, more kids can stay in school and get an education, no matter how much money their family has.

3. Inclusivity: Schools should be accessible to everyone, including kids with disabilities. We need ramps, accessible bathrooms, and learning tools that work for all students. When schools are inclusive, it shows that everyone deserves a chance to learn and succeed.

4. Teacher Support: Teachers work really hard and deserve better pay. When teachers are paid well, they’re happier and more motivated, which makes learning better for us. Good salaries will help keep great teachers in our schools and attract new ones who are passionate about teaching.

5. Hygiene: Clean schools are super important. We need proper cleaning supplies and handwashing facilities to keep everyone healthy. When schools are clean, it’s easier to concentrate, and fewer students get sick and miss classes.

6. Teacher-Student Ratio: There should be enough teachers for all the students. Smaller classes mean teachers can give us more attention and help when we need it. This way, everyone gets a fair chance to learn and do well.

7. Corporal Punishment: Hitting students is not okay. It hurts us physically and emotionally. Schools should use positive discipline methods that help us learn from our mistakes without fear. This makes school a safer and happier place.

8. Technology and Sanitation: We need access to the internet for learning and proper sanitation facilities for both boys and girls, including those with disabilities. The internet helps us access a world of knowledge, and good sanitation keeps us healthy and in school. Proper facilities also mean girls don’t have to miss school during their periods.

In conclusion, I urge the African Union and all stakeholders to prioritize quality education for all children. We must work together to create an environment where every child can thrive and reach their full potential. Education is the key to a brighter future for Africa, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that no child is left behind.

Thank you once again to the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child for this platform. Together, let us advocate for the rights and education of all African children.