UNICEF Yemen: A Fresh Start: Building the Future Through Education

The education system in Yemen struggles under immense challenges as a result of the ongoing conflict. Damaged and desolated schools have long been unfit for fostering learning and hope. Their crumbling walls tell silent tales of sadness and deprivation.

Susan Al-Hubaishi, the principal of Gol Al-Raydah School says that the situation was deplorable. The broken windows would let hot air and dust into classrooms, making classrooms unbearable." The school lacked the essentials to encourage students to stay. It was entirely unsuitable for learning."

Thanks to a partnership between UNICEF and Sheikh Abdullah Al Nouri Charity Society from the State of Kuwait, hope evoked. The renovation made hearts of teachers and students smile! Classrooms were renewed, hallways were restored, and windows were replaced to let in fresh air and sunshine.

The changes in the school also included provision of a computer lab, which marked a milestone for students in the remote Mayfah district. "This was the biggest achievement" says the school principal. "Access to computers was nearly impossible for girls here. Now, students are excited about learning and love their classes. I’m confident attendance will increase, and the school will continue to improve."

Another school smiles again!

The partnership between UNICEF and Sheikh Abdullah Al Nouri Charity Society also included the renovation of another school in Sayoon, Hadramout, where happiness prevailed when the students saw their school in a new look.

Marwa Jahman, a student at Al-Ta'awoun School, Shahooh, Seiyun, describes her happiness about the changes by saying, "We can now focus better during lessons, the bright colours and the good ventilation have completely changed how we feel about the school. We have gone from hating the school to loving it."

Rana Al-Juraidi, a student in Al-Ta'awoun School, Shahooh, Seiyun, talks about the bitter reality she experienced by saying, "The situation in our school was difficult, hallways, toilets and windows were awful." Classrooms used to reflect desperation and toilets were so unhygienic, which made going to school a nightmare.

Fellow student, Marwa, shares a similar experience "The situation was so bad that I avoided using the toilets, waiting until I go home instead. We hated coming to school."

The partnership of UNICEF and Sheikh Abdullah Al Nouri Charity Society demonstrates how effective cooperation can change lives. The renovations went beyond physical improvements as ambition was restored as a result, laying the foundation for a more integrated and prosperous community.