From the Field: Community teacher Transforms Learning with TLS and Radio Learning Space in Small Ekange Tiko
Since the onset of the Anglophone crisis, life has changed drastically, disrupting access to education, and learning materials in the Northwest and Southwest Regions of Cameroon. However, the situation is improving with the dedication of committed field workers who ensure children receive food, WASH services, protection, and, most importantly, education.
Since 2022, Naah Laticia has been a facilitator at the Traditional Learning Space in Small Ekange and currently instructs the Radio Learning Program there. Witnessing the dire situation of children, she volunteered as a teacher.
“My love for the children inspired me. When my father died, I dedicated myself to teaching children in crisis areas and dream of building an orphanage,” she said.
Small Ekange, formerly home to workers of the Cameroon Development Corporation (CDC) plantation, became unsafe due to the crisis. Laticia began teaching under a tree, battling mosquitoes, bird noises, and rain.
“It was challenging. Mosquitoes bit the children, causing sickness, and rain would often disrupt our classes,” Laticia recalled.
Laticia, the only trained educator in the community, has transformed the children into commendable members of society.
“Some couldn’t spell their names or speak any language other than their mother tongue. Thanks to UNICEF and its partners, they are now better pupils,” she explained.
Living conditions in Small Ekange are harsh. Laticia walks miles to fetched drinking water daily, cares for sick or hungry children, buys them food, and even washes their clothes. Despite her efforts, she often confronts parents who call their children to work instead of attending school. Laticia educates these parents on the importance of education.
UNICEF and its partner MWDA have greatly improved conditions in Small Ekange. Children now have access to a well-built school with learning materials, a radio for the learning program, and accessible WASH facilities.
“Since UNICEF’s intervention, the children now have books, pens, and proper facilities, making learning much better,” Laticia said.
Despite these improvements, thousands of children continue to suffer. In 2024, UNICEF reported that 41% of schools remain non-functional, with 75% of school-aged children attending school in unfavourable conditions, lacking furniture, materials, and water. Over 50% of children feel unsafe commuting to and from school.
The Global Education Cluster, led by UNICEF, recently held a workshop to promote education amidst attacks. Volunteers like Laticia are pivotal in ensuring continuous learning for thousands of children in emergencies.
Written by Chungom Emmanuel, PAC Intern in Buea Office (South-West Cameroon)
