Not all obstructions are rejections – sometimes they are redirections.
This rings true to the Sama Bajau learners under the ALS Program of the Sama Bajau Education Support Project (SBESP), including Arman Karoroh, who prefers to be called as Jelai.
Jelai is among the manny Sama Bajau children and teens who are challenged from practicing their right to education. Jelai used to go to school until she had to stop at 7th Grade because of economic challenges.The Sama Bajaus, an ethnic group of sea nomads in Zamboanga, are often victims of societal misconception that leads to tribal discrimination, inhibiting them from being able to fully enjoy a quality life.
To address this, CFSI and Educo Philippines, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), are implementing the SBESP in three barangays in Zamboanga, where out-of-school children and young adults will be provided with Alternative Learning System (ALS) sessions. A contextualized Sinama ALS Modules is also being developed by the project for implementation in the project sites. The SBESP aims to provide opportunities for greater access to education and employment among Sama Bajau children and young adults.
Jelai is among the 350 learners who had started participating in the first sessions of ALS conducted by the Instructional Managers of the SBESP. Learning Kits were also provided for all learners who are delighted with the opportunity.
Currently, Jelai is participating in the ALS Secondary Level of the SBESP. Her teachers have grown fond of her energy and enthusiasm for learning. While formal education is a challenge, Jelai found a window of opportunity through the SBESP. She hopes to become a teacher herself – so she can inspire more Sama Bajau children to finish their studies and dream of a brighter future.
