Teachers Training on how to combat child exploitation

30,000 child laborers are expected to benefit from a training of public school teachers on how to combat child exploitation spearheaded by the World Vision Development Foundation (WVDF) and the Department of Education (DepEd).

"Through this training, our teachers will be better equipped to empower the working children, out-of-school youth, and children at risk and help improve the quality of their lives," Lapus said.

He said that Metro Manila and the provinces of Bulacan, Camarines Norte, Cebu, Compostela Valley, Davao, Davao del Sur, Iloilo, Leyte, Negros Occidental, and Negros Oriental are areas with a high prevalence of the worst forms of child labor.

The training of 40 teachers who comprised the first batch runs from Dec 2, 2008 to May 22, 2009 in Ecotech in Lahug, Cebu City.

The training will enhance the teachers' capacities in five aspects of social development namely research, advocacy, networking, direct service and documentation.

The training series will develop among the teachers a deeper understanding of the child labor issue and the importance of education as intervention. It is part of the ABK2 Initiative or "Pag-aaral ng mga Bata Para sa Kinabukasan." Its project associates include Christian Children's Fund (CCF) and Education Research Development Assistance Foundation (ERDA).

Lapus added: "Educating our teachers, the community and the children on the menace of child labor is very critical to stop this exploitative practice."

DepEd has vigorously pursued non-traditional programs to bring children back to school, specially those burdened by difficult circumstances. Part of DepEd's commitment is to increase the participation and retention rates of public school children.

PNA
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