Arnasrif is small for his age. He has difficulty walking with one leg shorter than the other. Orphaned at a very young age, he is cared for now only by his grandmother.

Despite personal challenges, Arnasrif remains most enthusiastic to learn in his class of almost 50 children.

His teacher, Relinda Montimor, happily reports how Arnasrif would consistently be the earliest to arrive for class. Bursting with enthusiasm, he would express looking forward to what they would learn and play, and if they would again read and write for the day. Teacher Relinda could count on him to help his classmates understand instructions given as he has become their little leader.

Even in their cultural activities like dancing, as long as he can, Arnasrif would seldom choose to excuse himself.  Mindful of his physical condition, his classmates would ask him if he would still be willing to join; he would often say yes with much excitement!

 

 

Arnasrif is among this school year’s Bajau learners under Cartwheel Foundation Inc.’s Angiskula ma Bangka (Classes in Bancas) from Kasanyangan, Zamboanga. Now on its fifth program cycle, the continued implementation of this Early Childhood Education (ECE) Program has become possible through strong partnership with Ateneo de Zamboanga University – Center for Community Extension Services (ADZU-CCES), and the generosity of many selfless sponsors and friends.

Teacher Relinda is among three teacher-partners of Cartwheel who selflessly reach out to their fellow Bajau through culturally relevant education. Arnasrif is but one of many Bajau children who have been inspired to overcome challenges and continuously persevere through life-long learning.