Children risk life to achieve dreams

Thu, May 18, 2017 / 10:38 am

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Bravery: Children in Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara, risk their lives every day by crossing a crocodile infested river to go to school. They are ussualy accompanied by an adult who carries their school supplies and uniforms in a dry bag. JP/ Tarko Sudiarno
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Getting ready: After crossing the river, the children need some time to get ready for school. JP/ Tarko Sudiarno
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Out to dry: Damp clothes worn by the children are dried under the sun. JP/ Tarko Sudiarno
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Tidy up: A child laces his shoes after crossing a 65-meter-wide river. JP/ Tarko Sudiarno
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Long walk to freedom: After the river, the children are now ready for their final challenge; a 90-minute walk across mountainous terrain to their school. JP/ Tarko Sudiarno
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The promised land: The entrance of the Bidi Praing elementary school is what the children hope to see after their long journey. JP/ Tarko Sudiarno
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Finally: The children arrive at school and are ready to begin their studies. JP/ Tarko Sudiarno

Children in Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara, risk their lives each day they go to school.

In order for the children to get to their school, they need to cross the Kambaniru River, which is infested with dangerous crocodiles.

Just a few days ago, crocodiles in the river ate a local by the name of Cornelis when he tried to fish in the river. All that remains of Cornelis are his two legs and intestines.

Despite what happened to Cornelis, the children are determined to go to school for their education.

Without hesitation, the children bravely swim the 65-meter wide river, racing against crocodiles that cunningly lurk in the deep for their next meal.

After they safely cross the river, they then face the harsh terrain of mountains and cliffs that they need to conquer to finally arrive at the Bidi Praing elementary school.

The life of children in Sumba is a world away from that of kids in Jakarta.

Jakarta’s kids have all the facilities at their disposal to get safely to school and then return home.

The children of Sumbawa encapsulate true perseverance. Amid all the dangerous challenges they face, they are willing to break through all of that in order to achieve their dreams and goals.