Well, I don't have all the answers but I believe the key in solving the problem of poverty lies in education. If you educate the children of the poor well, these children then can help their families. Hopefully, the cycle of poverty will stop.
But when I mean education, its not just sending them to the nearest school. If you are a poor child and have to help in the family to get food on the table, which would you choose? Going to school or going without food?
What is needed is a comprehensive program where the children of the poor are given all, yes ALL, that they need to get educated well. Put them in hostels during primary and secondary schools. Provide them food, clothes, books and some pocket money. Give them a break for entry to institutions of higher learning. As long as they meet the minimum entry requirement, let them in. Give them scholarships to study. I know its cliché but remember the saying about teaching a man to fish? Here, we are teaching the poor children to fish. Where there is a will, there is a way.
I know that studies after studies have been done to study poverty in the country. But, even now, where are we? Back at square one. Why are there still poor people in our country?
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2 comments:
I'm a Malaysian working as an administrator in a small charity in London. We help poor households in London that are in debt such as unable to pay their rent or council tax (like cukai pintu). It's an eye opener that there is urban poverty in UK despite having a welfare benefit system.
The problem? The government and the people. Poorly implemented policies, politicians more interested in their wealth and indifferent voters.
Hi C! Thanks for dropping by. Yes, you are spot on.
I guess if politicians and people can't see the problem in front of them, they just couldn't be bothered. Who cares about the poor in the kampongs, right?
BTW, interesting job you have there. At least for them, there are jobs to be had in cities. Situation is opposite in the countryside. All the best in your work.
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