Cape Verde Eyes Extended School Hours to Protect Children
Cape Verde's government is considering extending school hours as a measure to reduce the number of children in street situations. Minister Adelsia Almeida announced this intention during the opening of a training session on the new Statute of the Child and Adolescent (ECA) in Praia. This new law, effective last week, aims to strengthen the protection system for minors by improving coordination among public institutions, religious organizations, and civil society. Almeida emphasized that the comprehensive protection of children is a shared responsibility involving judicial entities, community protection organizations, civil society, and every citizen. The government also plans to bolster support for vulnerable families, noting that approximately 40% of poor families in Cape Verde include children. Almeida highlighted concerns about child exploitation, abuse, and sexual exploitation, advocating for a stronger protection network and preventive measures. The 2021 Census revealed around 600 children under 18 in de facto unions or situations akin to marriage, which significantly impacts their development. Currently, the ICCA has identified approximately 200 minors living in street situations. To address these challenges, the government is exploring extended school hours to provide safe environments for children while parents are at work. Where extended schooling is not feasible due to high child populations, the government intends to enhance and create new Free Time Activity Centers (ATL) to ensure children remain in secure settings when family care is unavailable.
The Cape Verdean government's proposed extension of school hours and enhancement of after-school programs reflects a systemic approach to addressing the complex issue of children in street situations. This initiative acknowledges the intersection of economic vulnerability, parental work demands, and child welfare. By providing structured, safe environments, the policy aims to mitigate risks associated with street life, such as exploitation and lack of educational continuity. The focus on vulnerable families and the recognition of informal unions affecting minors highlight the need for comprehensive social support structures. Future policy considerations might explore the long-term sustainability of these programs, the integration of educational and social services, and mechanisms to ensure equitable access across diverse geographic and socioeconomic contexts within Cape Verde.
AI-generated to prompt reflection — not editorial opinion, not advice, not a statement of fact. How this works.