1 in 4
Young children do not attend preschool
Children living in poverty
Around a quarter of children aged 3-6 do not attend early childhood education. They are missing essential experiences in preparation for going to primary school.
Children from lower socio-economic backgrounds are less likely to participate in pre-primary education, which includes children from low-income, rural households as well as families who have moved to Kazakhstan.
For these children, early education can strongly contribute to their social and cognitive development, as well as their social inclusion.
17%
Of women experience partner violence
Risks in child marriages
Early marriage is practiced in Kazakhstan, and it is likely that the reported value of 7% child marriages is an underreported number.
The most at-risk groups are girls in rural and/or ethnic communities where traditional practices persist. There are also reports of bride-kidnapping in these communities.
The impact on girls is devastating. Young brides are at particular risk of physical and sexual violence at home. In addition, they often do not complete their education and therefore have no or few qualifications. Their future employment is limited to the lowest paid and lowest qualified jobs, or to remain working in the household.
Your support makes a difference for children in Temirtau
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
40
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Crafting is always popular. After school, and during weekends and holidays, children spend a lot of time doing creative activities (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Kazakhstan).
How your support helps in Temirtau
Strengthening families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.