The military operation in the region of Swat, Dir, Buner and FATA has led to the largest humanitarian and displacement crises in recent times. The people of these regions are forced to face hazardous conditions, along with the uncertainty regarding the duration of their displacement. This current situation may worsen with the army intending to move into Waziristan, where another exodus of civilian population will further bloat the already swollen ranks of the Internally Displaced People.
This displacement has many negative implications on the lives of the children, who not only have to deal with emotional trauma but also with all sense of normalcy being removed from their lives. One way to reduce this is to provide schooling for them. Through education, while teaching the children the regular school curricula, one can strive to promote the principles of peace, care, tolerance as well as conflict resolution in a safe and nurturing environment. By providing such an environment, the children will be able focus on reading and writing skills and be able to continue with their education without any major setbacks, once they return to their natural homes.
Children’s Global Network, Pakistan (CGN-P) has had first hand experience in working in tent schools during the 2005 earthquake. Our disaster management strategy was based on helping children heal by making all educational activity a method through which they could express their emotions and provide an outlet for their inner turmoil.
In the backdrop of the current escalating tensions between the military factions, Children’s Global Network, Pakistan is actively working for the welfare of the displaced children and is working to establish a network of collaborations to further help us with this cause. We have already formed an alliance with MKRF-Pukar and Girl Guide Association and are in the process of creating summer schools for children with planned ‘learning through Play’ activities scheduled as part of the day, in order to help children heal from the trauma of displacement. CGN-P is very grateful to Montana State University (MSU) who has graciously provided seed money for the start up of these summer schools. |
