Unreached People Groups and Education

Every other Sunday in RVA church a different group shares prayers and praises from a UPG they are focusing on for the year.  They bring the congregation into their prayers that more may pray. 

This past Sunday an RVA missionary dad shared the beginnings of work with a UPG in coastal Tanzania. He shared how God had opened the door for this people group when the inland church felt called to go to these people.  In the first approach the people were receptive asking for a hospital and a school.  It was fascinating to hear that they wanted a school.  Sometimes I wonder if bush people care about schooling for their children, in the traditional sense.  They school their children on their traditions.  As much as I think education is important, I recognize that the whole world doesn't share my thoughts. Some see tradition and the ways of old as the best education.  

I have always been curious about education in refugee camps.  When people have been displaced do they care about education?  For those whose new home is the refugee camp is education important, especially when they have lived there for several years?  I recently heard from another missionary who has worked in a refugee camp for several years.  Education is a low priority.  It sounds like there is a desire, but the organization of this desire is difficult because other needs come first.  

These two conversations brought a question to my mind.  Why do kids go to school?  Being a teacher at a large school I hope to do a little more research.  I know what I think, and why I think education is important, but do my students think the same thing?  I'm curious...

Some of my junior highers said education prepares you for the future, helps you learn more and hopefully will set you up for a better job.

Two students said, "School will help you get a better job so you don't die."  The second replied, you won't die." First,"yes, just not as soon."  You got to love Junior Highers.