©InfoWhen Michael is asked what he learned at the child advocacy and rehabilitation (CAR) centre he confers with his mates before rushing off. A few minutes later they return carrying a big cupboard, which Michael proudly displays at the community meeting.
Michael, 18, who graduated from the CAR centre after gaining a basic education and learning carpentry, says: “Before I went to school I just hung around playing. I’m now much more responsible and I can make cupboards, benches and wardrobes to sell, so that I can contribute to my school fees.”
The CAR staff continue to monitor the children for one year after they graduate, to check how they are getting on with their apprenticeships. Madia Reeves, Liberia Red Cross project co-ordinator, says: “After a year, there is no official monitoring, but we still have contact with many of our graduates and it’s fantastic to see them establishing themselves in the community, doing well and using the skills they learned at the CAR centre.”
Proud parents
Many of the children who attend the CAR centre in Monrovia come from Deemen community. A few years ago it was a different story, but now there are many proud parents in Deemen bursting to tell the stories of how their children have changed.
Michael’s mother, Hawah, says: “After the training, I see such a change in Michael. The skill he’s learned has made a huge difference. Before, the children didn’t have any respect for their parents and wouldn’t take instruction. They were no help at home or to the community. But they are now helpful children, they participate in community action such as cleaning up and building work.
“Most of the people who did carpentry and masonry and have returned to the community have been able to get work with Momodou Gtolo, a man from our community who has a construction business. He has been able to absorb most of the graduates into his work force.”
More about post-conflict care in Liberia
Watch a video about children in Sierra Leone