To raise awareness about children around the world and foster empathy, a special lesson was held on April 21st at an elementary school in Kurashiki City, Japan, by a staff member of the Japan Committee for UNICEF.
The lecturer was Reiko Ikeda, a staff member of the Japan Committee for UNICEF who works to promote education that values children's rights. This special lesson was held to cultivate rich sensibilities and empathy in the students by teaching them about the current situation of children around the world.
Ms. Ikeda spoke to approximately 250 students, describing the plight of children around the world suffering from conflict, disaster, and poverty, and explaining UNICEF's activities.
(Reiko Ikeda)
"Building peace is also the responsibility of adults, but I want you to remember that it is truly essential for children to grow up healthy and happy."
The students listened attentively to the stories of children in various parts of the world, including Ukraine, the Gaza Strip in Palestine, and South Sudan.
(Student comments from the class included:)
"I learned about things happening all over the world, and I realized that the world is in the most difficult situation it's ever been."
"When I saw UNICEF's fundraising activities, I just thought, 'Oh, they exist,' but after hearing today's talk, I want to learn more."
"I learned that children our age are also living in poverty because they don't have school lunches or a home."
In the afternoon, Ms. Ikeda gave a lecture on children's rights to elementary and junior high school principals in Kurashiki City.
Around the world, children suffer from conflict and poverty... UNICEF Japan holds special classes...
