By Songkran Mapaisarnsin | Project Manager
Since Pai District in Mae Hong Son Province is a major drug trafficking area in Thailand, children and youth growing up there - including Thai, Tai Yai, Lahu, and Yao communities - are at high risk of drug exposure. This project aims to provide a safe and creative environment where children and youth in Pai can spend their time together, helping them stay away from the influence of drugs.
The Saturday Training for Children and Youth at Risk of Substance Abuse Project has been actively supporting children’s development over the past three months. Through life skills training, home visits, and special camps, 80 children participated and gained valuable experiences. The program aimed to teach essential life lessons while engaging children in fun and meaningful activities.
In October 2024, the program focused on learning and environmental awareness. Children studied the story of Jeremiah through Superbook lessons and prepared for an exciting camp. The camp, held from October 17-19, had the theme "Love the Earth, Love God's Creation, and Love the Environment." Children learned about nature conservation, emergency preparedness, and teamwork. Activities included a forest walk with the Forest Chief, worship sessions with parents, and a stage play about creation. Some talented children were also rewarded with scholarships for their art, and a group of 26 children attended the Superbook Camp in Chiang Mai.
In November 2024, the focus was on gratitude and giving. Children discussed the importance of thanksgiving and first-fruit offerings, which they later presented in a church event, earning praise from their parents. The program also helped students in Grades 4-6 improve their skills in Mathematics and English, supporting their education alongside personal development.
In December 2024, children celebrated Christmas by learning about the birth of Jesus Christ and planning fun activities for the event. They received gifts such as footballs, badminton rackets, and hair accessories, bringing joy to the celebration. The Christmas Outreach at Ban Mae Khong Community College allowed them to invite friends and learn about children’s rights through interactive activities. Additionally, 12 students in Grades 4-6 explored their artistic talents with drawing and coloring lessons, developing their creativity and understanding of color theory.
This is a story of children in the program named Yui. She is a 17-year-old student in Grade 11 at Pai Witthayakhan School. She has been part of the Saturday Training Program since she was 10 years old. Through this program, she discovered her passion for working with children and realized the value of positive activities. Knowing that she has responsibilities at Saturday school has helped her stay away from drug influences. This year, she was elected to her school's student council as a hospitality officer, where she helps organize events. She is also the oldest youth leader at Saturday school, assisting younger children with activities, games, and lessons.
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