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Summary: World Vision Russian Federation, supported by UNICEF, recently held a festival to celebrate International Week of Science and Peace at one of World Vision’s Community Mobilisation Centres in the republic of Ingushetia, near the Chechen border. Prior to the festival, World Vision distributed more than 1,200 colourful encyclopedias to the senior students from 13 UNICEF-supported schools located in temporary settlements for Chechen refugees in Ingushetia. Each school also received a stereo tape player and classroom tools such as globes and thought-stimulating games.
Meanwhile, children were given the chance to take part in classroom discussions on how education and science can contribute to peace in general and in particular, their region, where conflict and bloodshed have marked the childhoods of so many.
Students who had most actively participated in the ‘Science and Peace’ activities gathered in the centre to perform skits and folk dances and sing songs.
World Vision Psychologist Maya, whose efforts contributed to the joyful occasion said, “Our children had to bear all the hardships of war together with adults and it made them grow up too early. Nothing brings more satisfaction than watching how glimpses of a happy childhood light their faces up.”
“Although we don’t have big beautiful schools with computer classes and gymnasiums like a lot of other children, we shouldn’t give up. We can still be excellent students,” declared 13-year-old Malika.
Embracing her brand new encyclopedia, 14-year-old Mata, added, “Every time I get a new book I feel so happy because I can learn a little bit more about the world we are living in. It is my dream that one day I will be teaching others.”
The head masters and teachers present echoed the students’ sentiments. “We don’t have words to express our gratitude. We are in a situation where sometimes we have to tell our students to buy their own textbooks, knowing that the majority will not be able to afford them,” said head mistress Rosa.
In spite of the tremendous difficulties that these schools face on a daily basis, they continue to function, giving education to children and hope to their parents.
Aida, UNICEF Project Officer said, “We are blessed to be at this festival and watch how gifted these Chechen children are. It is our desire that every single one of them develops his or her talent and eventually uses it for the well-being of the whole nation. We on our part will do everything possible to make it happen.”
Owner: Magomed Havtsukov