A group of children living in a rural area of the Campechuela municipality in Granma must traverse completely flooded paths daily to get to their school. "This is how the children from Altos de Jo go to school, and the government doesn't care or even answer the phone; they need to address this situation," demanded Adriela Aldana Fonseca, a member of the Facebook group "Somos de CAMPECHUELA."
The photos and video shared depict a heart-wrenching scene: elementary school children, accompanied by their mothers, walking barefoot through a waterlogged path filled with mud, with their feet submerged up to their ankles—some of the youngest nearly up to their knees. The children are accompanied by their mothers who, wearing boots, carry their children's backpacks and shoes.
The images evoke both anger and sympathy, highlighting the government's neglect towards the population in this area, while also showcasing the determination of these children and their parents to pursue education despite numerous hardships. "Sadly, I used to go to school like this years ago, and it seems this cycle will never end," commented a Miami resident.
"No words. Only God knows what we parents endure daily with our children. Situations like these are evidence of a system that has never worked and never will," stated a mother. "It's horrifying and sad to see these children struggling to get to school," lamented a woman from Pinar del Río.
Challenges Faced by Children in Rural Granma
This section addresses common questions and concerns regarding the difficulties faced by children in rural areas of Granma, particularly those related to their daily journey to school.
What challenges do children in rural Granma face when going to school?
Children in rural Granma face significant challenges such as traversing flooded and muddy paths, which can be dangerous and unhealthy. The lack of infrastructure and governmental support exacerbates these difficulties.
How does the community respond to these challenges?
The community shows resilience and determination. Parents often accompany their children, carrying their belongings to ensure they arrive at school as clean and dry as possible. However, there is widespread frustration and anger towards the government's inaction.