In the remote riverside villages of the Chocó, schooling is not always a matter of course. In the villages, which are difficult to access, there is often a lack of personnel, materials and logistics. The nearest school is hours or even days away. As a result, many adults are illiterate.

This affects women even more, who are mainly responsible for house and farm in the traditional patriarchal structures. In addition to schooling, many women lack knowledge about their rights, which makes it difficult for them to participate in social decision-making processes.

With the ICEMA project, we are supporting a school that starts precisely there: it brings education to remote villages. In addition to the lessons in which they learn to read and write, the approximately 90 students from three remote riverside villages take part in courses that aim to educate about women’s and human rights and strengthen community cohesion.

The structure and content are adapted to the needs and context of the Chocó. Indigenous, mestizo and Afro-Colombian women and men share ideas about equality and learn how to recognize and avoid domestic violence and abuse. This also creates a safer place for children in turbulent times.

In addition, participants have the opportunity to organize themselves to participate together in community processes and leadership activities, to actively work for the well-being of all residents of their community, and in this way specifically strengthen their role in society.

Classes are held each month for one week at a time. During the rest of the month, students have time to complete homework assignments, as well as work to earn money for their families. In extracurricular activities such as recreational activities for children, ICEMA also involves other community members to strengthen the community.

Casa Hogar has supported this project especially by accompanying the project application and developing the project structure. The project is funded by Adveniat.