Tong-Len School
On the Tong-Len campus there are three purpose-built hostels in addition to the school building. Many children from the slum require a safe and supportive environment in which to live while attending school. In addition, priority is given to those children in greatest need. In the hostel the children live in age and sex appropriate groups, overseen by dedicated house-parents.
Free Schooling
It is our belief that education is the most effective means of making sustainable changes. To this end, Tong-Len provides free schooling to children from slum communities and other poor families. All learn valuable skills to help in everyday life and in future careers. Opportunities to experience practical training are on hand through Tong-Len’s Vocational Training Centre. Our aim is to help our students explore and fulfil their potential academically and as responsible, caring human beings.
Special support is required to help slum childrem into education
There are significant challenges for slum children in accessing education. Biased attitude towards slum children is a normal phenomenon and it can be hindrance to the child`s overall development. It was realised that a more inclusive, supportive, student-centred and flexible approach was necessary. All children of primary school age living in the slum are invited to join the school as day pupils and some places are also available to children from local families living in poverty.
The Tong Len School collects children from the slums 6 mornings a week, washing and dressing many of them and providing all with nourishing meals. They have regular health checks and there is a dedicated system to prevent children from falling behind if they are absent from school. Tong-Len now enables over 300 slum children to receive quality education.