Young people affected by violence in rural areas of northern Colombia are being educated in rudimentary outdoor classrooms, local media reported Thursday.
Reports have emerged of groups of up to 20 children affected by the armed conflict in Sierra Nevada, Santa Marta, northern Colombia, having their education in rudimentary lessons while sitting among the beauty of the isolated mountain range.
According to Caracol Radio, at 820 feet above sea level, basic classrooms have been constructed which give children from the area the opportunity to get an education.
All affected by the armed conflict, and the majority displaced from their homes, this new education method offers an opportunity for children and young people who have lost everything.
MORE: Leaders of displaced people murdered in central Colombia
Although these classes are not sanctioned by state education authorities, the lessons offer an opportunity for these children, many of whom have reportedly experienced horrific ordeals such as witnessing family members being killed.
Sierra Nevada has been troubled in recent years by mass displacements due to armed conflict, and a plethora of dangers such as land mines injuring those who live there.
More recently, Sierra Nevada has suffered from numerous wildfires that have destroyed over 7,400 acres of land.
MORE: Wildfire consumes over 3000 hectares in northern Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountains
Sources
- Mines and conflict destroy hippy paradise in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada (UNCHR)
- Debajo de enramadas se educan estudiantes en la Sierra Nevada (Caracol)
