In Port Sudan, Amna Mohamed Ahmed’s school offers a vital second chance for education amid ongoing conflict. Established to combat illiteracy, it particularly supports women facing educational barriers. With the war displacing millions, this school serves as a refuge for those seeking to regain their education and improve their futures, exemplifying the enduring human spirit’s quest for knowledge.
In Port Sudan, a humble classroom serves as a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil of war in Sudan. Founded by 63-year-old Amna Mohamed Ahmed, affectionately known as “Amna Oor,” the school aims to combat the pervasive illiteracy affecting her community. Since its inception in 1995, this initiative has welcomed many eager learners, particularly women who have faced barriers to education due to cultural norms and financial constraints.
One such individual is 39-year-old Nisreen Babiker, who left school in 2001 after taking on family responsibilities. With her siblings and children now educated, Babiker felt compelled to return to school, viewing it as a fresh start. Her experience highlights the school’s role in providing a second chance to those who aspire to learn despite life’s challenges.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which escalated in April 2023 between military factions, has rendered the education system nearly inoperative, with over 12 million people displaced and many schools repurposed as shelters. In this environment, the Port Sudan school has become a refuge for displaced individuals seeking an education and a better future. Maria Adam, 28, represents those affected; she joined the school after fleeing her home, hoping to secure an education that will benefit her children.
Despite the severe disruption to education nationwide, with 90 percent of school-age children lacking access to formal learning, the determination of students at Amna’s school remains steadfast. Many have progressed to high school, and some have even attained university degrees. The classroom atmosphere fosters a sense of hope, as families come together in the pursuit of knowledge, ultimately aiming to transition from dependency to self-sufficiency.
“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,” stated Amna Ahmed. The transformative impact of education not only improves individual lives but also enriches the community by cultivating educated, productive members of society.
The Port Sudan school, established by Amna Mohamed Ahmed, plays a critical role in providing educational opportunities for individuals, especially women, affected by the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Despite severe challenges, the school’s commitment to education fosters hope and resilience among its students. The stories of learners like Nisreen Babiker and Maria Adam illustrate the profound impact of returning to education, as they aim to construct a better future for themselves and their families.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
