In Bol, education and practical skills weave a bright future
UNICEF, with the financial support of Education Cannot Wait, has established Non-Formal Basic Education Centers in the cities of Bol, Bagasola, Liwa, and Ngouri in the Lac Province of Chad.
In the Level 4 classroom of the Non-Formal Basic Education Center in the city of Bol, in the Lake Chad province, students are attentive and eager to answer the teacher's questions. This morning, Mamadou Adam Abakar, 30 years old, is conducting the observational science class as their facilitator.
« I teach a variety of subjects: science, spelling, and arithmetic. We also engage in debates on important topics such as child marriage »
In the classroom, where around fifteen students gather, Khadidja Abdoulaye, 13 years old, sits at the front. Since her arrival in Bol three years ago with her mother and three siblings, Khadidja has considered the Center her second home. Having never had the opportunity to attend school, she vowed to overcome her educational gaps through this center, which caters to children who haven't had access to formal education.
« I learn a lot here; they patiently explain what is difficult to understand, and we also have practical training, »
says Khadidja. Her day is quite busy as she focuses on arithmetic and revises French in preparation for her goal of continuing her studies at high school level. Her dream is to obtain a scientific degree and become a laboratory technician.
After the morning classes, Khadidja and the other level 4 students head to the dedicated room for practical training to end their day with a sewing class.
Their instructor, Boukar Adam, 37 years old and a trained tailor, shares his expertise with the students every day. He teaches them the operation of sewing machines, fabric cutting, garment making, and essential sewing skills.
« I love seeing my students work well and learn. When their level improves, it's my reward, my motivation, »
At the end of their 4th year of training, after an examination, the students receive an end-of-training kit consisting of a sewing machine and other essential tools for sewing. If needed, they are directed to one of the Technical and Vocational Training Centers to complete their training.
UNICEF, with the financial support of Education Cannot Wait, has established Non-Formal Basic Education Centers in the cities of Bol, Bagasola, Liwa, and Ngouri in the Lac Province of Chad.
These centers welcome vulnerable and non-enrolled girls and boys who, in addition to basic education, receive practical training in gardening, sewing, mechanics, and carpentry. They also receive end-of-training kits to facilitate their integration into active life. The centers have trained 2,301 learners, including 1,232 girls, and 197 graduates have received sewing and carpentry reintegration kits for their socio-economic integration.
