15,000
Children are forced to work
Child labour
Working children in Georgia are subjected to the worst forms of child labour, including forced begging and sexual exploitation, sometimes as a result of trafficking. Child labourers report working in difficult conditions and without breaks.
Trying to balance work and school has a negative impact on educational attainment, either resulting in under performance, children dropping out early, or depriving children from attending school altogether.
In addition, children are at risk of long-term health problems due to malnutrition, chemical exposure, and abuse.
1 in 3
Do not attend preschool
Education
Education disparity is a significant problem in Georgia. Of all schools, 80% are rural but teach less than one third of the country’s students, with many at risk of closure. Alternatively, urban schools experience significant overcrowding.
Despite improvements in the education system and its infrastructure, one in five children who are learning in rural schools, do so in very poor condition and lack adequate or safe heating.
The consequences of a poor educational background can be profound. They include worse prospects for future employment, restricted social development, and increased vulnerability to exploitation and abuse.
Your support makes a difference for children in Kutaisi
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
Are supported in the community
Are supported on their way to independence
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Siblings spending time together. They grow up with each other, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Georgia).
How your support helps in Kutaisi
Strengthening families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school. In Kutaisi, we also provide emergency assistance to mother and children.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. Some children living in different parts of the city, alongside other local families. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.