Project Runaway: Sierra Leone

by Catherine Harris

Refugee communities in Sierra Leone are faced with many challenges. These include acquiring basic needs, such as food, clothing, and transportation - refugee students often go to school on an empty stomach. They also lack quality information and communications technology (ICT) tools, and indoor and outdoor study equipment with which to empower student and adult outreach programs.

The community responds to these challenges by meeting with relief and humanitarian organizations such ADDRA, CARE, and DCI-SL, and making them aware of the plight of Sierra Leone's children. Sometimes, these organizations help to provide the basic needs of food, shelter, and clothing. In addition, personal contributions are made by iEARN's Sierra Leone staff to help the war-affected youths and refugees in transportation to and from the center. Radio and TV coverage of the plight of those children is made possible by iEARN staff.

iEARN Sierra Leone was established to develop the talents of youths in today's IT-led world, and to allow them think critically about global issues affecting their lives, families, and communities. iEARN aims to create community internet centers country wide, so Sierra Leone's war-affected children, refugee youth, and women fighters will have the opportunity to share their stories with their peers around the world.