Restoring students’ potential

In Shire, Tigray region, children have redefined the meaning of joy through education. For them, joy is learning. These resilient children, who were once deprived of access to education due to COVID-19 and the conflict in northern Ethiopia, have found their sense of contentment in going to school. With support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland, many of these children are back in school, eager to make up for lost time. Through the BETE programme which provides a safe space for boys and girls in the humanitarian situation in Ethiopia by integrating accelerated learning, child protection, and skills development, these children are rapidly catching up and embarking on the path to being at their age-appropriate grade level. Their story showcases the importance of education in instilling hope and unlocking their full potential. 

Hilina Desta, 16 years old and an internally displaced person (IDP) from the western zone of Tigray, currently resides in a preparatory IDP camp in Shire. Hilina struggled to integrate and adapt to her new life in the camp, but she remained persistent. When schools reopened after three years, she eagerly returned to her studies. However, the lack of space posed a constraint. Fortunately, through the Accelerated Education Programme, Hilina was able to enrol and resume her education. Hilina loves learning and is now in grade 8 at Embadanso School., "I have always loved learning. It brings me so much joy to learn new things daily and be surrounded by friends," Hilina said.  "Being away from school was extremely hard, but now that I am back, I have completed two grades in just ten months. I am now completing grade 8 and will soon join grade 9."

Besides her education, Hilina is the gender club coordinator at her school. She works hard to challenge gender norms and traditional practices with her fellow club members. “The gender club is our platform where we discuss different topics and daily challenges,” said Hilina. “We also have the Girls Shine Curriculum and life skills sessions which enable us with relevant skills to prevent gender-based violence.” 

Another displaced student, Sara Gebreselassie, is thrilled to be learning again. However, her journey is far from easy. “Adjusting to a new environment and trying to fit in was hard,” said Sara, “but thanks to the support of my family I was able to overcome it and enjoy going to school.” She added, “Children in an IDP setting need the most care, particularly those who are out of school."

Through the BETE initiative, Sara was able to attend the non-formal classes and progress to a formal class in grade 8. She has made friends and discovered her potential and capability through the gender club and life skills sessions. Formerly reserved in her interactions, Sara now expresses her feelings freely and has developed self-awareness and confidence. Sara shares, “School allows me to connect with others and share experiences. So, I find peace in my friendships and in going to school." 

Just like Embadanso School, Adey Meselech School, located just a kilometer away from Shire town, also provides a secure environment for education. One of the students at the school, Kisanet Fetaneges, an 8th-grade student, is happy to be back at the school. 

Reflecting on her journey, Kisanet said, “Trying to forget the past and focus on my studies was tough. But my love for biology kept me going.”  She further emphasizes the need for increased support for children affected by the conflict by stating, “Children need more psychological support to cope during times of conflict or long absences from school.  I'm grateful for the support of my family, friends, and teachers." 

Kisanet also recognizes the importance of gender clubs and other interactive platforms for children to express themselves, “Our gender club facilitator is an inspiration for me to achieve my goals. She always teaches us the skills to overcome the challenges of being an adolescent girl.” 

Like Kisanet, Girmay Meresa now embraces the happiness of being back at school. “I used to spend my time supporting my family but now I am back at school, and I am very happy”. Girmay had a difficult time being away from school. For Girmay, the school allowed him to participate in various inter-school sports competitions. 

But now that he is back, he plays football and participates in various competitions and activities, “I love football and I love Cristiano Ronaldo. His dedication inspires me.” 

Thanks to the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland, UNICEF is helping children in conflict-affected areas to access education through the rehabilitation of damaged schools and the building of temporary learning spaces. In addition, the condensed curriculum helps these children catch up on missed classes and ensures that these children are not left behind. UNICEF will continue to support children and respond to the needs of families.