Managing the Needs of Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Mainstream Rural Schools: An Ethnopsychology Informed Approach

Abstract

Orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in mainstream rural schools encounter unique challenges stemming from loss, economic instability, and disrupted familial structures. Addressing their needs demands a comprehensive and culturally sensitive approach. This paper thus explored the use of an ethnopsychology framework to understand and address the diverse needs of rural children, emphasizing the importance of culturally sensitive interventions in mainstream schools. It also evaluated the effectiveness of ethnopsychological interventions and the role of community collaboration. This article used secondary data sources to understand how the ethnopsychology approach can be utilized as a potential sustainable intervention strategy for the needs of OVC in mainstream rural schools. The results show that OVC are well-served by the cultural resources that rural schools have in abundance from a cultural perspective. The study also emphasized the significance of cultural practices and beliefs in influencing community responses and developing resilience in assisting OVC. The study supported the care, protection, and psychosocial support to OVC as significantly influenced by family and relationship networks, community-based organizations, and traditional support systems. The paper made recommendations for improving rural schools’ response to OVC needs in light of cultural sensitivity. These include boosting collaboration between formal and informal support systems, creating community networks, fostering cultural adaptation and preservation, and giving community members more agency through programs that increase their knowledge and skills. This study underscored the significance of ethnopsychology principles of community and social connection in leveraging cultural resources, context-based and responsive interventions, and appreciating and sustaining existing indigenous knowledge systems in understanding and addressing the needs of OVC in mainstream rural schools. Understanding and supporting OVC contributes towards cultivating meaningful collaborations and transformative care of OVC in the Global South. Keywords: Ethnopsychology, Cultural Sensitivity, Rural Community, Mainstream Rural Schools, Orphans and Vulnerable Children.