Challenges and Resilience:
Supporting Schools Amidst Haiti’s Crisis By Josue Octeus, Executive Director, SHM Ministry
Education in Haiti faces severe challenges, with ongoing instability and insecurity disrupting the school year. Yet, amidst these difficulties, hope persists, especially in remote communities where our efforts make a tangible difference. This article highlights the current status of three schools supported by (SHM) Samaritan’s Heart Ministry: Acadex in Lillavois, the school of Dinise in Jean Rabel, and the school of Cerca in Thomonde. This article does not concern the school of Robio and the school of Janbwa, also sponsored by the ministry of SHM. Thes schools will be part of the next article
1. ACADEX in Lillavois
Located near Port-au-Prince in the Lillavois community of Croix-des-Bouquets, Acadex stands in the shadow of gang violence. Criminal groups like 400 Mawozo, Chen Mechan, and Taliban sow chaos through arson, assaults, and murders. The resulting exodus of families disrupts the school, with many children forced to leave with their parents. This year, Acadex registered 50 children, but only 30 attended in October. The remaining students are expected in January 2025, though the volatile situation leaves the school year’s stability uncertain. Acadex operates with a staff of five: three teachers, the principal, and a cleaner.
2. The School of Dinise in Jean Rabel
Situated in the remote community of Jean Rabel in Haiti’s northwest, the school of Dinise is relatively shielded from gang activities. However, financial uncertainty presents its own challenges. Teacher instability is a significant issue, and families increasingly opt to enroll their children in a public rural school nearby. Despite these hurdles, 70 children registered at Dinise this year, with 45 attending in October. The remaining students are anticipated in January 2025. Dinise has a dedicated staff of six: five teachers and one person who handles both cleaning and administrative duties
3. The School of Cerca in Thomonde
The Cerca school serves a remote, poverty-stricken community near Thomonde in Haiti’s Central Plateau. Here, insecurity is less of a threat, but poverty severely impacts families. Many parents cannot afford uniforms or shoes, yet we welcome students regardless, staying true to our mission of sharing the gospel and alleviating poverty through education. Cerca registered 135 students this year, and 123 attended in October. The remaining 12 are absent due to a lack of basic necessities. The school operates with a larger staff of 11: nine teachers, the principal, and a cleaner.
Moving Forward
As we continue supporting these schools, the resilience of the students and staff inspires us. Despite the dire circumstances in Haiti, especially in gang-affected areas, our mission remains steadfast: to deliver education and share the hope of Christ Jesus. We will provide updates on these schools and others under our sponsorship in future reports. Your prayers and support are crucial as we navigate these challenges and strive to make a difference in these communities. Thank you for standing with us in this mission.