Indonesian earthquake: Laughter returns to West Sumatra

Laughter and squeals filled the air. More than a hundred children, hiding behind two giant tents, were making two big circles while continuing to sing and play different games.

Amidst the noise, there were teachers, school Principals, and community volunteers sitting outside of the tents, trying to concentrate on the training material delivered by World Vision’s Child Protection staff. Over the last five days, World Vision has been focusing on equipping the facilitators with knowledge on child protection practices and psychosocial support skills, while continuing to conduct activities for the children at the Child Friendly Space (CFS).

World Vision has recently opened its first Child Friendly Space in Kampung Timbalun village, some 30 kilometers from provincial capital of Padang city.

World Vision will run 13 Child Friendly Spaces in Kota Padang and Padang Pariaman district, some of the worst affected areas. Child Friendly Spaces are structured, safe places where children can play with other children, relax in a safe place, learn basic skills to cope with the shocks and losses they’ve experienced, and receive informal education.

Risa, Nila and Raju (all eight years old) are students of SD 02 Elementary School in Kampung Timbalun village. Their school, as well as their houses, were severely damaged and cannot be used anymore.

Together with hundreds of their friends, the three children attend the CFS activities every day. “The spaces are designed to provide psychosocial support to children after a disaster or conflict,” said World Vision Child Protection Specialist, Pitoyo.

In West Sumatra, more than 500 schools were destroyed or damaged by the 7.6 magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Wes t Sumatra on 30 September 2009.  “The Child-Friendly Space tents might be used temporarily to run the school activities as well,” said Pitoyo.

People who want to make a donation, may do so through World Vision New Zealand’s Asia-Pacific Emergency Relief Fund by going to https://www.worldvision.org.nz/Donations