At the schools, they inculcated the children with good character as enshrined in Pancasila, the state ideology. They are nurtured to become individuals with good moral values and civic responsibility. They are also taught valuable, practical skills such as cooking, sewing to motorcycle maintenance such as changing lubricant.
“Of course, they have to learn about and implement the values of Pancasila in their everyday life so they will stay away from crime and other immoral acts,” he said.
As the fruits of this selfless dedication, many of the street children have graduated from the schools and are freed from the shackle of poverty. They have become police officers, soldiers, teachers, and even hotel staff and seaman. Two of the alumni even attained postgraduate degrees.
For Rossy and Rian, seeing the children become successful give them utmost joy. But there is still much work left to be done.
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“The challenge is, when the children already turn 11 or 12, the parents usually tell them to work. In desperation, some even sell their children. So many of these children end up being prostitutes, thugs, and other social vices,” Rossy explained.
They said the environment factor greatly affect the lives and development of children. Despite this, the 73-year-old teachers will never stop helping the children find a brighter future. (bp)