In African countries hardest hit by the AIDS crisis, FAO is working with the World Food Programme and local organizations to set up Junior Farmer Field and Life Schools.

AIDS orphans and vulnerable children between 12 and 18 years of age learn about farming, running a business and other important skills. Volunteer teachers use the fields during the growing season as a "living classroom". The students also learn about HIV and AIDS and how to protect themselves against infection.

So far, FAO has set up over 30 Junior Farmer Field and Life Schools for orphaned children in Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia and Zambia. About 1 000 young people have benefited from the schools.

Watch these videos!

It’s not all studying and work at the Junior Farmer Field Schools. They succeed because they make learning fun. Don’t believe it? Take a look at these videos.

In this one Junior Farmer Field Schools use dance to help orphans keep healthy and grow in self-confidence. ftp://ext-ftp.fao.org/Video/2577-01.mpeg

In this one there’s a singing lesson at the Junior Farmer Field and Life School in Chimoio, Mozambique. ftp://ext-ftp.fao.org/Video/2577-02.mpeg