Haiti - Education : «Do not think that change will come from outside»
Lilian Thuram, former star of French football [former world champion of football in 1998, 142 selections] and Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF, just completed his 5-day visit to Haiti as part of the week of Haitian children held from June 6 to 12 around the theme : "Respect our rights, this is what us, children we ask" (Respekte dwa nou, se sa nou menm timoun nou mande)
In a press conference, which ended his stay, Lillian Thuram has described of "extremely difficult" the situation of disadvantaged children, especially those living in IDP camps. But he nevertheless asserted to have observed some changes. Among these, the fact that some schools like in Carrefour-Feuilles or at the Université St-Gérard o longer work under tents, but in local "semi-rigid", built by UNICEF.
He reiterated the importance of education in the life of a child and in the development of any society. "We are what we are through education. If we want the country changes, we must focus on education" stressing that "who speaks of future, of change, speaks of education". Mr. Thuram also welcomed the willingness of change expressed by the President Michel Martelly, to bring education to all children in the country. Also, he urged the Haitian people to "assist the new President to build this country". A country who, he believes, "will be built with many difficulties [...] I say to children, adults : Do not think that change will come from outside, the change will never come from outside, the change will come through the willingness of each Haitian, the willingness to move forward the cause of Haiti." He also promised to continue his advocacy in favor of Haitian children with the donor countries and to be an "Ambassador" for Haiti with the French people.
