A recent study published by UNICEF and the UN shows that the Western African nation of Liberia is in desperate need. Primary school participation, gross enrollment ratio stood at 96% for male and 86% for female. This means that the vast majority of children in primary school age attended school. In contrast, the same study showed that the above percentages dropped sharply. Unfortunately, Secondary school participation, net attendance radio decreased to 14% for both male and female. This means that the parents of 86% of the children do not count with the financial means to provide their kids a secondary school education. These statistics worsen in remote villages.

Some of the children and their families are “landless” (without a home) and have got no option but to live within the school grounds. In order for the kids to be able to attend secondary school they must achieve a high score in the nationally administered exams and when parents cannot afford their education; they rely heavily on assistance in the form of school supplies donations by charitable organizations and by way of sponsorship programs.

The children are very eager to learn and do their very best in school with the hopes to go to secondary school and subsequently have the opportunity to obtain a college level education and a career. Their day typically starts at 4am by studying under kerosene lantern light or candle light as their villages and home lack electricity. Kerosene lanterns and candles pose a great risk to their health and safety but the possibility of education outweighs the risks. After school, the children return to their homes to continue their studies by kerosene lantern or candle light until around 10pm.

Once the kerosene light expires; they will retire to their corner of the house and fall asleep on the hard surface of the dirt floor.  If you were to ask a kid what would they buy if you give them the equivalent of $13USD; the answer would be “buy kerosene so I can study” over buying a mattress to sleep on, shoes or even food. The eagerness and dedication cannot be ignored.