Child marriage, sexual exploitation and harmful social norms
In a refugee settlement, girls are especially vulnerable.
Ala and Nakiro lost their parents in the war in South Sudan. They survived hardships and fled to neighboring Uganda with their younger siblings. Now they are both the head of their household, fighting to raise their siblings and go to school at the same time. It is tough, and a lot of responsibility. But the two friends are determined to stay in school.
Just like Ala and Nakiro, every single child in Palabek Refugee Settlement has been through a lot. They are all survivors of war, hunger and violent attacks. Many are orphans. And many have lost years of schooling due to the conflict in their home country, South Sudan, holding them back from pursuing their dreams for the future.