In the Philippines, many children with disabilities are still denied a fundamental right: the right to learn. Behind this exclusion often lie invisible barriers that weigh heavily on their future.
Being a child with a disability in the Philippines means facing a double injustice. Today, these children are 10 times more likely to be excluded from the school system, and only 17% of them are enrolled in school.
Yet disability is not the only factor contributing to exclusion. Schools that are ill-equipped, inadequately trained teachers, and often isolated families gradually push these children away from school—and away from their right to develop, form relationships, and build their future.
Yet when children receive appropriate support, their life trajectories can change profoundly. Maria’s story illustrates this:
“When Maria started school, many people thought her disability would be an obstacle to her learning. Because of her cleft palate, she cannot speak like other children, and reading aloud remains very difficult for her. However, thanks to the educational program she received, Maria has learned to read, write, and count. Today, she is in first grade, surrounded by her 30 classmates. Every day, she makes progress with courage and determination. When I see her smiling among the other children, I realize just how much access to education can change a life.”
– Testimonial from her teacher.
To address these challenges, Asmae works with its local partners on several levels: with children through tailored educational activities; with families to better support their children; with teachers to promote inclusion; and with government authorities to bring about lasting change in practices.
The results are tangible: 7 out of 10 children gain access to education, and 100% make progress in their development thanks to this comprehensive support.
Maria’s story is not an isolated case. Every time barriers to schooling are removed, a child can learn, gain confidence, and find their place among others.
Together, we can help more children walk through the school doors and envision a future that lives up to their potential.