In Port Sudan, Amna Mohamed Ahmed has created a vital school for adults seeking education amidst the ongoing conflict. Over her three-decade career, she has helped many, especially women, achieve their educational aspirations. The war has caused widespread disruption, but the resilience of her students highlights an enduring commitment to learning, exemplified by their aspirations and successes in continuing their education.
In a dilapidated classroom in Port Sudan, a dedicated teacher instructs her adult students in Arabic, emphasizing the importance of education amid widespread illiteracy. Amna Mohamed Ahmed, affectionately called “Amna Oor,” has devoted over thirty years to providing educational opportunities for those who have missed formal schooling. She initiated this project in 1995, catalyzed by the pressing need for education exemplified by the enrollees’ commitment to learning.
The school primarily targets individuals who were deprived of educational prospects, especially women facing societal and economic obstacles. One of the students, 39-year-old Nisreen Babiker, returned to education after years of familial responsibilities following her father’s passing. She expresses her excitement about starting anew, stating, “Even after all these years, it feels like I’m starting fresh.”
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which escalated in April 2023, has pushed many to seek refuge in educational institutions like Amna’s school. Displacement due to the violence has left millions affected, with casualties numbering in the tens of thousands. Among the newcomers is Maria Adam, who yearns to complete her education after dropping out at 11. “When I arrived in Port Sudan, I heard about this place and joined,” she shared.
Amidst the turmoil, the desire for learning remains strong. The United Nations reports that over 90 percent of Sudan’s 19 million school-aged children lack access to formal education, with many schools now serving as shelters. Despite these challenges, Amna’s school has seen numerous students transition into higher education and some achieve university graduation.
Amna derives fulfillment from witnessing her students’ transformations, where they evolve from being illiterate to securing jobs and supporting their families. She noted, “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.”
The school ultimately serves as a beacon of hope. Through its initiatives, it empowers individuals to break free from societal constraints and contribute positively to their communities, proving that the pursuit of education perseveres even amidst the deepest adversities.
The efforts of Amna Mohamed Ahmed in establishing an educational refuge in Port Sudan exemplify resilience in the face of adversity. Her commitment to providing a second chance at education for those impacted by economic and cultural barriers is commendable. Despite the overwhelming challenges posed by war and displacement, her school continues to ignite the hope of learning, enabling students to redefine their futures and contribute meaningfully to society.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
