Ammon News - By: Heba Karbek

Today marks the World Day Against Child Labour. On this day, we remember the children who have to work instead of going to school or enjoying their childhood.

In Jordan, there are still kids who work to help their families. One of them is Ahmad. He’s 12 years old, just like me. But instead of being in a classroom, Ahmad spends every day working at a small roadside shop that sells tea, coffee, and cold drinks to passing drivers.

He wakes up early, helps prepare the drinks, and serves customers all day long. His skin has become darker from standing in the hot sun every day, and his eyes often look tired. Sometimes he yawns while carrying trays of tea and coffee, but he keeps going, even when his small feet are sore from standing for hours.

Ahmad says he wants to go to school, but his family depends on the money he earns. He’s often tired, but he keeps smiling. I think that’s very brave, though very sad.

In recent years, more organizations in Jordan have been working to help children like Ahmad. They talk to families and offer support so kids can return to school. The government is also taking steps to reduce child labour. Some reports even say that the number of working children in Jordan is slowly going down.

That’s a great start, but there’s still more to do. Every child deserves the chance to learn, dream, and grow up safely. Let’s speak up for kids like Ahmad and hope for a future where no child has to work instead of learning.