Children at one of our Lighthouses in Ethiopia recently visited one of the parks in the capital to learn about their country’s history and culture.
Our Lighthouses are a safe haven for children who have been exploited or who are at risk of modern slavery. One of the ways we support children is through catch-up education and opportunities for them to simply enjoy being a child.
The boys from Canaan Lighthouse visited Unity Park in the Arat Kilo district of Addis Ababa, in the compound of the National Palace. They were able to learn about plants, animals, art and heritage, to name a few.
One of the boys told us: “This was a very interesting visit, and I will never forget it.”
Another of the boys said: “I have got different knowledge about my country and have refreshed my mind. Thank you, Hope for Justice, for providing this blessed opportunity.”
Led by their teachers at Canaan Lighthouse, the boys visited various sections of the park. This included exploring the royal palace and museum, the former residence of the Ethiopian emperors, with rooms containing royal artefacts, portraits and relics.
They also visited the botanical gardens to see native and exotic plants. The park is also home to a variety of native Ethiopian animals, including endangered species. The children saw the Ethiopian wolf, the Abyssinian lion and many species of birds that were on display.
Meanwhile, the exhibitions of art and crafts gave the children chance to learn the rich diversity of Ethiopia’s ethnic groups through murals, sculptures and exhibitions.
Matiyas Girma, Social Worker at Hope for Justice, said: “Unity Park serves as an educational resource, allowing children to learn about Ethiopia’s ancient civilisations, its royal history, and the country’s commitment to environmental conservation. The gardens also provided a peaceful environment where the children could enjoy watching the water fountains and the beauty of Ethiopia’s flora. The children were very happy and enjoyed the visit, and were able to gain more knowledge and understanding about the history of Ethiopia.”
