Listen to the voices of children affected by HIV/AIDSFrom 5-9 August 2009, 72 children attended the 6th Annual UNICEF/China National Committee for the Care of Children (CNCCC) Summer Camp for Children Affected by AIDS in Beijing(Summer Camp nurtures dreams for children affected by HIV/AIDS). Among other activities, the campers were encouraged to voice their dreams and concerns during a participatory training organized by UNICEF staff about the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Let's listen to their voices.
On studies, they say: "My family is poor and I'm always worried about where to get the money to continue my studies. I hope my schooling fees could be cut. "I live so far away from school. Every morning I have to walk one hour to go to class. How nice would it be if I could have a bicycle!" "I hope I could have more friends at school without worrying about stigma." On life, they say: "My village is so poor and many of my classmates have dropped out of school. I'm concerned about them." "We don't have enough food. I hate to be starving." "AIDS took mom and dad away and I don't know who's going to take care of me if grandma gets sick." "Grandma comes back late sometimes and no one cooks for me. I hope my neighbors and relatives could come to help." On health, they say: "Mom keeps working though she's on treatment so that I could pay my tuition fees at university. I do want to make a good life for her but I don't know if she is still alive when I graduate." "I hope all the children with HIV could get treatment and grow up smoothly." On participation, they say: More children like us can come to the summer camp; Thank you to all who support us!
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