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09/07/2010

On 21 and 22 June, a semi-annual review of the initiative “Pilot Clubs: Mobilizing family and community’s resources to support education” was organized in the Sai Gon Kim Lien Hotel in Nghe An province. 45 representatives from Women’s Union, the education sector in Nghe An and Commune Management Boards participated in the review.

Participants considered the pilot clubs, which are called “Education and Life”, as one of the most valuable activities in the commune’s education plan. The pilot clubs target parents with children from 10 to 15 years old. They not only create a platform for sharing experiences in educating children but also enhance links between the family and school.

Some of the most significant outcomes after 9 months of operation are the following: (1) families are paying more attention to create favorable conditions for children’s learning, (2) the concept of gender equality is better understood and supported and (3) barriers in communication between parents and children are dissolving.

Mrs. Pham Thi Loan, a club member in Nghe An province testifies:

“I used to forbid my girls in engaging in any social activities because I thought a girl’s place is at home and she only needs to be good at chores. But now, I realize that is so wrong. Girls should participate in social activities also. Thus, I told my son to share the work with his sister so that she could have more time for social activities.”

Besides influencing parents in a positive way, pilot clubs also affect their children. Quang Ngai province is a good example: this school year, pilot commune Duc Thanh saw the drop out rate of students decrease with 66% compared to the previous school year (2008-2009).

The “Education & Life” pilot club concept has received enthusiastic participation of parents since its establishment in October 2009. On average the clubs count 50 members. As the clubs are meeting their goals during the pilot phase, a follow-up plan for multiplication of the model has been developed and initiated.