Bubanza Province, Burundi — September 21, 2023 For many children in Kagwema A, walking to school has long been a painful journey. Without shoes, they braved scorching ground, each step a struggle, yet their determination to learn remained unshaken.
This reality changed when the Project Education for All initiative returned to Kagwema A. After previously distributing school supplies, organizers responded to a new request from the children: shoes. For them, footwear meant more than protection—it symbolized dignity, comfort, and the freedom to walk to school without suffering.
The distribution day was marked by joy and relief. As the children slipped on their new shoes, their faces lit up with smiles. Volunteers described the atmosphere as transformative, with the children now walking proudly and confidently toward their classrooms.
Organizers emphasized that education is not only about books and pens but also about removing barriers that prevent children from accessing their right to learn. Sometimes, those barriers are as simple as the lack of shoes.
Organizers emphasized that education is not only about books and pens but also about removing barriers that prevent children from accessing their right to learn. Sometimes, those barriers are as simple as the lack of shoes.
