Land mine victims taking vocational training classes

SD(B) is raising funds to provide vocational training for victims of land mines in Cambodia.  The programme is run by Clear Path International, co-founded by long time U.S. Subud member Imbert Matthee, in partnership with Cambodian Volunteers for Community Development.

Despite increasing stability in Cambodia, the Killing Fields continue. The terror lingers in the form of more than 2 million landmines that threaten innocent children and their families in many parts of the country. During more than two decades of civil war in Cambodia, all sides placed landmines indiscriminately and often with the intent to terrorize civilians. These mines are everywhere: along bridges, footpaths, rice paddies, river banks and around villages.  As a result, Cambodia has the highest per-capita percentage of mine amputees in the world, with one in every 236 Cambodians living with one or more lost limbs. Though several international organizations are addressing many of the survivors’ physical needs, few provide support for their economic reintegration.

In early 2002, Clear Path and CVCD graduated the first 35 accident survivors trained in English, computer skills and sewing in Phnom Penh.  In the province of Kampong Cham, 60 mine survivors are now being trained in vocational skills including sewing, small-engine and appliance repair (30 have already graduated this autumn). The programme aims to give land mine victims the opportunity to regain a productive, independent, meaningful and dignified lifestyle, and to fully reintegrate in their communities.

Ith Komsoth, now age 33, lost his right leg 13 years ago when he stepped on a mine, changing his life forever.  He has lived in isolation, not having left his house in 12 years. With the encouragement from Mr. Kim, the vocational training local coordinator, also a below the knee amputee survivor, Ith agreed to join the program, and has been studying electronics. He was scared and shy at first. However, he has blossomed with the personal interactions, as he has learned that he is not alone. His teacher reports his success in the program and that Ith’s intention is to open up a small electronic repair shop in front of his house.

The cost of the vocational training programme for one student is £200.

£40 would enable a graduate to invest in tools and equipment to start a small business in sewing, small-engine repair or appliance repair.  

To read report of visit to centre by SD(B) trustee Michael Wisnom click here

On November 7th 2003 groups in Brecon and Bristol joined thousands of others around the world participating in the night of 1000 dinners to raise awareness and funds to support the victims of land mines. As a result of these events $2500 was sent to help save the lives and livelihoods of landmine accident survivors in Southeast Asia.

Please send your donations to the Susila Dharma (Britain) Treasurer: Mark McElroy, 6 Lothlorien Close, Derby, DE23 2RY.

Further information:                    www.clearpathinternational.org