This SOS (Save Our Students) program is a slum-based program to help children attend school.

Each school is based in a slum where our medical team is working and each one is essentially a “drop-in centre”, manned by One-2-One teachers. The teachers’ job is to ensure that as many children in the slum attend the public schools, while at the same time providing additional education to improve their chances in life. Those children who are slower or who need catch up or are unable to go to the public school, for any reason, are especially encouraged to come to SOS, so we can provide support.

The public school system in Cambodia has half-day sessions. Children either attend a morning school or an afternoon school. They are required to pay a daily fee to the teacher. This cost along, with the need to pay for school uniforms and books, is enough to prevent some slum children from attending. In addition, these children assist their family in earning family income, by picking up rubbish.