- A
- J
In Ethiopia, when New Year
arrives in September, children
across the country are expected
to return to school — books in
hand, uniforms ironed, hope in
their eyes. But for many,
especially in rural and low-
income communities, this season
is not a time of celebration. It's a
season of quiet heartbreak.
Thousands of children do not
return to school simply because
their families cannot afford it. Not
the tuition, not the books, not
even the shoes to walk there.
For many families, survival
means choosing between feeding
the household or sending a child
to class. In some cases, children
are sent to markets instead of
classrooms — not out of neglect,
but necessity. A school bag
becomes a luxury. A pencil
becomes a dream.
These are bright, creative, eager
kids — many of whom could thrive
if given just a basic opportunity.
They’re not lacking in ability or
motivation. They’re simply shut
out by poverty.