I saw this quote on the CHIPS site and it really made me think, "
A 1% reduction in world military spending could provide primary
schooling to all the world's children. A 10% reduction could eliminate
illiteracy completely for a decade. If 0.5% of world military spending were diverted
to immunisation, all children could be vaccinated against preventable
diseases for the next 10 years" (UNICEF, 2004).
It would be fantastic if each country could change perspectives and realize that education and literacy ensure success.
I listened to a podcast by Meridas Eka Yora from January 6, 2010 on World Forum Radio, discussing issues in Indonesia. Particularly since the Tsunami in Indonesia in 2004 poverty has stricken many young children and communities. Not only are the children suffering effects of poverty such as loss of educational opportunities, but also trauma. Many children lost parents, which has changed the family dynamic as they must come together and fill roles for younger siblings or cope with the tragedy that occurred.
As we discuss poverty, in my mind I see the comparison poverty=survival. When we think back to Maslow's hierarchy of needs our goal with young children and families surviving in poverty situations is to reach a place in life where educational attainment can become a focus, not just fulfilling basic needs. There are so many circumstances that children are placed in and they must cope and survive, but thankfully there is a field of professionals that are reaching out to all children. While the need seems so great, I am thankful to be learning with committed professionals such as all of my Walden colleagues and those around the globe to fulfill the promises to future generations.
Mandy,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your post. I agree that the world needs to get the idea and do something to lower international poverty rates. Teachers can have a great affect in counterbalancing the affects of poverty on young children.
Mandy, I feel grateful as well to work with so many individuals with the same hopes and dreams as I have. It literally hurts to work with people in this profession who really don't want to be here. With that feeling of gratitude I feel a deep sense of anxiety. Anxiety over can we do this, will we do this and how can we do this? Will everyone who doesn't feel the same as me, ignore my intentions? These types of questions come to mind when I think of the walk ahead. I anticipate the journey sort of like when you're forced to deal with an uncomfortable situation. Like you, I'm ready all hands on deck!
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