In eastern Sudan, a school founded by Amna Mohamed Ahmed provides a vital opportunity for those affected by conflict to pursue education. Ahmed’s initiative addresses widespread illiteracy while supporting displaced individuals seeking a brighter future. Many students, including women who previously faced barriers to education, are now resuming their studies, demonstrating remarkable resilience amidst dire circumstances.
In a dilapidated classroom in eastern Sudan, a diverse group of adults attentively observes a teacher as Arabic letters are inscribed on an aged blackboard. The classroom is founded and nurtured by Amna Mohamed Ahmed, affectionately known as “Amna Oor,” whose name reflects the Beja word for lion. With over 30 years of dedication, she has empowered countless individuals in Port Sudan, the nation’s de facto capital, to reclaim their educational pursuits. Ahmed initiated this project in 1995 driven by the rampant illiteracy plaguing her community.
For some like 39-year-old Nisreen Babiker, the opportunity to resume education is a long-awaited aspiration. After departing from school in 2001 due to early marriage and familial responsibilities, she now feels revitalized in her learning journey. “Even after all these years, it feels like I’m starting fresh,” she expressed, highlighting her determination and hope for the future.
The school has evolved into a sanctuary for individuals displaced by the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which escalated in April 2023. Amidst the chaos following clashes between army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, tens of thousands have perished, and over 12 million have been uprooted. Maria Adam, who fled her home in search of safety, shared her desire to resume her education after having abandoned school at age 11, stating, “I want to finish my education so I can help my children.”
The ongoing conflict has significantly disrupted Sudan’s education system, with the United Nations asserting that over 90 percent of the country’s 19 million school-aged children lack access to formal education. Many classrooms have been repurposed as shelters for displaced families. Even prior to the war, a 2022 assessment by Save the Children identified Sudan as a nation at heightened risk of educational collapse. Nonetheless, the resolve to learn persists at Ahmed’s school, with many students advancing to high school or achieving university graduation.
In a heartening scene, a mother sits alongside her young son during lessons, intent on transforming their prospects. “To watch someone go from not knowing how to read or write to graduating from university, getting a job, supporting their family — that is what keeps me going,” Ahmed remarked. She emphasized the profound impact education has on individuals, transforming them from liabilities into contributing members of society.
In conclusion, Amna Mohamed Ahmed’s educational initiative provides a crucial opportunity for those in war-torn Sudan to reclaim their right to education. Despite widespread challenges and disruptions caused by conflict, the school continues to inspire hope, allowing individuals like Nisreen Babiker and Maria Adam to pursue their educational goals. The resilience of these students underscores the enduring importance of education in fostering personal growth and societal advancement.
Original Source: www.iosconews.com
