Tajikistan
There are many barriers for a child with disability to access education in Tajikistan. Sometimes this barrier is seen in the attitudes of people that think children with disabilities don’t belong in school or should be kept separate from other children. Sometimes the barriers are physical, for example a child with a wheelchair who cannot enter the school because of steps, or who cannot reach the toilet because it is inaccessible.
Our local partner organizations in Tajikistan worked with a school to help them understand the need to change the school’s physical accessibility. Then they partnered with local businesses and shops, who donated the materials necessary to build a ramp and to make the toilet accessible. Local workmen partnered with those working at the school to do the building work. The local staff also worked with the child to prepare he to go to school, as well training and mentoring the teacher who would teach the child with a disability. Much partnership has helped this child to enter school!
Hope Starts in the Small Things
Most importantly, hope is present for Hamidjon because he has a loving mother, who, through our project, is able to experience support and acceptance, receive counselling and process her grief.
Perseverance Brings Progress
Now Rustam can express himself, he is socializing with his peers, and he is participating in the cultural events of the organization. Rustam is ready to go to school!
Partnership Opens the Way to School
There are many barriers for a child with disability to access education in Tajikistan. Sometimes this barrier is seen in the attitudes of people that think children with disabilities don’t belong in school or should be kept separate from other children.
Health is Everyone’s Responsibility
Health is everyone’s responsibility, and Bibi grew in her health knowledge and confidence through our training and put it into practice for the good of her community.
The Miracle of Life
Maftuna knew about the book through one of Operation Mercy’s community health trainers. She herself went through Operation Mercy’s general health and pregnancy lessons, as the trainers do not only work with the local women in the village but also the wives of Operation Mercy staff.