Learning to earn

Dreams interrupted by conflict 

Two years ago, Saba and Fatima dreamed of a bright future after finishing school.

Then the war came. Like millions of children and young people in Sudan, their education was abruptly interrupted, and their dreams seemed to crash overnight.

When conflicts hit, children are forced out of school, exposing them to danger and abuse. Girls are disproportionately affected and at greater risk of sexual and gender-based violence, while boys face the danger of recruitment into armed groups. 

Fatima stayed at home as days turned into months and then years.

“I was sad. I was mad. I was depressed,” Fatima recalls.

Saba, then a grade 6 pupil, fled with her family. by the age of 17 she had been displaced twice before finally reaching Gedaref state in the far East of Sudan.

“I always believed that education would guarantee me a better future,” Saba said.

“When our classrooms closed, I felt devastated. What were we going to do? How would we continue with life?” 

Even when the schools reopened, Saba could not return. Her parents had lost their jobs and could no longer afford the costs.

Learning to Earn: A lifeline for adolescents

As schools remained closed and some were turned into shelters for displaced families, the number of out-of-school children spiked. It was at this moment that Saba and Fatima discovered an opportunity that would transform their lives. 

Through UNICEF and partners, they joined the Learning to Earning Training programme, alongside 500 other young people in Sudan. Over five intensive days, they received training in social entrepreneurship, vocational skills and life skills. 

Each day began early and ended late as participants combined theory with hands-on practice. Beyond technical skills, they also learned creativity, confidence, teamwork, self-respect and time management- tools to rebuild their lives after years of disrupted routines. 

“We learnt how to work as a team, keep time, and respect ourselves and others,” said Fatima.

The training also gave the young participants a sense of community, helping them form new friendships and support networks to heal and cope.

Soap-making for a fresh start 

From several vocational options, Saba and Fatima chose soap making- a skill they believed would be “quick to learn and quick to earn.”

“Everyone needs soap,” Saba said.

Today, the two young girls have mastered the art of making liquid soap and are earning some income. Using the start- up kits provided to each participant, they are now small business owners.  

“I started with 20 liters of liquid soap and in three days, it was all gone,” Saba shared proudly.

Both girls now contribute to their families’ needs and even save some profits- a remarkable step toward independence and stability. 

Looking ahead: dreams of school and leadership 

As they tap into their new skills and income streams, Saba and Fatima continue to dream about returning to school.

“In the future, I want to graduate, get my degree, start my own business, be an independent woman, as well as help others,” said Fatima.

Saba echoes her hope: “Every girl should have an opportunity to go to school. It is the best thing.”

The Learning to Earning training programme, supported by the Government of Canada, equips young people with skills for a successful and productive future.