By Erika Bachmann

IT’S HARD to believe Khongoroo is 14 years old.

Many of the children who are in the Asian Outreach (AO) literacy program are severely stunted by years of malnutrition,  and the unhealthy life circumstances that so often accompany poverty.  This Mongolian youngster’s outlook, however, is that of one many years her senior.

Such is the case with many of our literacy class children, who have had to adapt to a very hard life early on – creating a wisdom and maturity beyond their years.  

Khongoroo is studious, and loves attending the classes. When asked what her favourite subject is, she smiles shyly and responds that she likes “everything.”  

Before joining the literacy program, Khongoroo was in grade one of the government school system – but could not afford textbooks, stationery or school fees. She dropped out because her teacher would beat her when she didn’t meet expectations.  

Khongoroo’s life has not been easy ­– even by Mongolian standards, where a third of the population live below the poverty line. Both her parents have died, and she is living with her older brother. He walks three kilometres every day just to get water, and 15 kilometres every day for firewood.

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Unfortunately, like many families in Mongolian society, alcohol has caused serious problems. Khongoroo’s brother was recently caught stealing while drunk, and was arrested and detained for one month.

During that month, there was no one to collect water or firewood; so out of desperation, Khongoroo was reduced to burning part of her bed to stay warm in temperatures that dropped to –35 °C.

Upon discovering the situation, AO staff connected with her teacher, visited Khongoroo, and made sure she could stay with members of her extended family.

Despite the difficult circumstances, Khongoroo has kept up her near perfect attendance at the literacy class. Her progress  is encouraging, and she should be able to reintegrate into the government school system next year.

The dedication of these children to their education, when given a second chance, is inspiring. She says she would like to be a “doctor of children” when she grows up. Asian Outreach Mongolia wants to help make her dream come true.

For info: asianoutreach.ca    

Erika Bachmann, a Maple Ridge resident, spent six months working with Asian Outreach Mongolia. Asian Outreach president emeritus David Wang will be a plenary speaker at Missions Fest 2011.

January 2011