The provision of the basic learning needs for all Filipinos is no longer the sole responsibility of the Department of Education due to the Philippine Government’s Education For All (EFA) 2015 National Plan of Action. This means it is up to the organizations and people to ensure their children are educated. World Hope International joined a school in the southern region of the Philippines to do just that amongst the indigenous B’laan tribe. Through means of several projects, they are achieving a well-rounded education for disadvantaged students.

Taking a holistic approach to enrich the lives of indigenous children, there are many ways in which the team is working to promote education, social skills, access to water, and spiritual and emotional growth. Through child sponsorship, extracurricular activities, and clubs, children have been empowered to better their social standings and create a better life for themselves.

In 2018, Sponsored Children became “School Ambassadors”. School Ambassadors are students who are showing good academic performance, improved learning outcomes, and holistic well-being. School ambassadors are representative of the success that follows child sponsorship.

Youth participation in school events (school clubs, retreats, camps and special activities) is encouraged for emotional, social, spiritual and leadership development in girls and boys of school age. Through these they are educated on sexual reproductive health, gender-based violence, human trafficking, and the effect of drugs on youth. All of these things lead to more informed life decisions being made by the students, and, therefore, less perpetual poverty. 

By providing child rights education and capacity building to students, teachers and Parents-Teachers-Community Association and the general community, there is also reduced discrimination against Indigenous People.