Poverty, migration and a lack of voice characterize the situation of many children and young people in Nicaragua. The project work of Asociación Infantil “Tuktan Sirpi” in the north of the country not only has a long-term impact on the children, but also changes their environment: success is beginning to take root.
Nicaragua is one of the poorest countries in the world. Poverty forces many children to go to work in order to help support the family. In addition, the migration of parents abroad exacerbates the situation of many children. They are neglected, abused, exploited and have little say. terre des hommes schweiz is doing something to counter this situation and supports the organization Asociación Infantil “Tuktan Sirpi” (ATS) in the cities of San Sebastian de Yali and Jinotega in the north of Nicaragua. In recent years, ATS has repeatedly impressed with its reflective and innovative work, which is having an increasingly sustainable impact. This is all the more important as terre des hommes schweiz is working towards exiting projects that can finance themselves.
1300 children and young people
ATS supports 1300 children and young people and involves 600 adults from various stakeholder groups in their environment. Today, children and young people recognize and confront risk situations such as exploitation, discrimination or violence in their living environment, such as family or school. The project makes them aware that they have rights and entitlements to education, health, family, leisure and non-violent interaction without exploitation.
Opening and strengthening doors
In the current phase 2015-2017, it was decided to no longer support children and young people in the existing centers and on the market, but also directly in their living environment, in their districts. Rooms were rented there and so-called “mini-clubs” were founded. Activities such as dancing, screen printing, computer courses etc. were offered by a mobile team under the motto “opening doors” and “strengthening”. The children have slowly gained confidence and now organize their own activities in the mini-clubs. They have also managed to get a road repaired.
Free premises
ATS also accompanies the children in negotiations with the local representatives of the district. The plan was for them to cover the costs of the miniclubs from 2017, so that ATS could slowly withdraw from the miniclubs. The great thing is that in some districts, the rent is already being paid or parents are offering rooms for activities so that premises are available free of charge. A few weeks ago, the FSLN party offered young people premises in another district. Here, the young people are supported by ATS so that they are not taken over by party members.
Children and young people on radio and television
Children and young people are present on radio and television to make their rights known. ATS is also committed to ensuring that they represent and assert their interests and rights in the children’s commissions of the two cities of Jinotega and Yali. As part of leisure activities, the children and young people develop vital social, creative and technical skills and learn about their rights and how to demand them. Children and young people who have experienced violence receive psychological support, are empowered and, in serious cases, are taken to court.
