From Challenges to a Passion for Learning: Sarah's Story

Sarah Rediscovers Her Passion for Learning

Education during times of conflict and disasters is more than just an opportunity to acquire knowledge; it provides children with a safe environment, gives them a sense of stability and hope, and helps them overcome the psychological and social impacts of crises, becoming a gateway to a better future.

In Yakhtul area, Al Mokha District, Taiz Governorate, Sarah Abdo Yahya Ali lives with her family and attends Al Shaheed Mohammed Ali School. Like many other children in the area, Sarah was affected by the challenges imposed by the the challenging circumstances, which were reflected in her educational experience. she begins her school day in the morning and attends classes until noon. She then returns home for lunch and a short rest before heading back to school to attend the remedial classes implemented by Nahda Makers Organization, where lessons continue until 4:00 p.m. She ends her day by playing with her peers in front of her home.

Recalling the challenges she faced before joining the remedial classes, Sarah says, "I faced some difficulties because I only had one notebook, which caused some students to bully me." The challenges were not limited to the lack of school supplies but also extended to the academic aspect. She adds, "I had a major problem with mathematics and found it difficult to perform arithmetic operations. The school hours were also very boring." She also pointed out that the school lacked games and learning resources that would give students space for recreation and enjoyment during the school day.

With the implementation of the project interventions, Sarah's educational experience began to change significantly. She says, "The organization provided us with many things. The first was qualified teachers to deliver remedial lessons. I also received a school bag, school supplies, and reading and mathematics books, which benefited us greatly during the lessons." The project's impact was not limited to improving academic performance but also made the learning environment more attractive and enjoyable. The provision of recreational games and educational materials helped 

make the school a more engaging place, which increased Sarah's and her classmates' motivation to learn and participate in class.

When speaking about the project's impact on her academic performance, a smile appeared on Sarah's face as she said, "I have become much better. I have improved in reading and mathematics more than before, and I can now spell letters and words easily. I can also perform arithmetic operations more easily." This support also had a positive impact on another aspect of her personality, as she found an opportunity to develop her talent for drawing. She says, "I love drawing, and my talent has improved because I now spend more time drawing using the materials I received. I also have enough notebooks now, and I have dedicated one notebook to each school subject."

At the end of the interview, Sarah expressed her gratitude to Nahda Makers Organization and its partners for the support they had provided, saying, "I hope the organization continues to be with us at the school every year."

Sarah's story reflects the reality of thousands of children whose right to quality education has been affected by conflicts and disasters. At the same time, it highlights how integrated education interventions, through the provision of remedial classes, qualified teachers, learning materials, and a supportive school environment can help children regain their self-confidence, develop their abilities, and instill in them hope for a better future.

Sarah’s story is part of the Displacement and Climate-induced Emergency Response in Yemen Project, funded by Education Cannot Wait (#ECW), in partnership with the Norwegian Refugee Council (#NRC), and implemented by Nahda Makers Organization (#NMO).

Through this project, Nahda Makers Organization continues to support children affected by displacement and crises by providing safe and inclusive learning opportunities, remedial education classes, qualified teachers, and educational materials and supplies. These efforts help strengthen children’s abilities, restore their passion for learning, and give them the hope and confidence to build a better future.