It's back-breaking labor with meager pay. A full third of their monthly income goes to pay Nelida's school fees. Nevertheless, they are committed to paying these fees, because by sending Nelida to school, they are investing in the family's future. Poor parents will spare no expense to send at least one of their children to school. That child, usually chosen because he or she is the brightest sibling, is then expected to get through school, make a good living, and support the parents in their old age.
Compassion provides opportunities for our children to learn in all three.
Stafford Unfortunately, even the brightest children in developing countries face huge obstacles, first in gaining access to a quality education, and second, in obtaining a good job. The populations of these countries are growing, but the spending on education is not keeping pace with the growth. Huge class sizes, no textbooks or supplies, higher fees, fewer schools overall. With such adverse conditions, it is no wonder that the school dropout rate among children is dramatic. And even if a child, in some near-miraculous way, makes it through the formal school system, there is no guarantee that he or she will get a job at all, much less one that will support the whole family.