A class is in session for these children at Asin Chaing, a quiet fishing community in Burma. For many, this is the first education they have ever received.
Life had been difficult here even before the tsunami hit the coastal village two years ago. As part of the recovery efforts, UNICEF and partners introduced a programme called EXCEL to Asin Chiang and other communities affected by the tsunami - offering out-of-school children basic education and essential life skills.
Trained young educators like Than Than Mon travel to each village three times a week to meet and work with the children. Together, they explore topics such as communication skills, decision-making and how to protect themselves from exploitation and HIV.
"EXCEL is like a bridge for better future of children. It prepares them to go back to school one day when their families financial situation improves."
To date, more than 8600 children have completed the 9 month program. Many of them are working children and nearly half are girls
"I am glad that my mother let me attend this program so I can continue learning. I know how to protect myself now and have developed more skills."
During the process, some 350 young educators have also been trained to help bring knowledge and skills to the most exploited and vulnerable children in Burma.
Information for this report is provided by AP.
